Tasmanian Fishing and Boating News Issue 076 2008 October

Issue 76 October - November 2008

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Print Post approved; PP 702512 00027

St Helens Bream on Fly Flinders Island Penstock Lagoon Mersey - Bells Parade Western Lakes Derwent and more...

Patrick Morehouse with a spring time brownie from Four Springs Lake

Bringing you the biggest and best in Tasmanian fishing news

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Fishing News - Page 2

CONTENTS

Flinders Island - John Orchard 6 Penstock Lagoon - Joe Riley 12 Western Lakes Wilderness - Shane Flude 16 Mersey River at Bells Parade - Leroy Tirant

20

Bream on Fly - Craig Rist 24 Derwent trout - Alistair Creed 26 St Helens sport fishing - Jamie Henderson

28

North West trout - Daniel Paull 32 News and reviews 34 Jan’s flies - Jan Spencer 39 Inland and Marine fishery news 42 Classifieds and Subscriptions 43 Fishing, boating services directory 44

My Say I usually try and have the cover shot relevant to a story. This issue it isn’t, but it was such a good shot I couldn’t wait to run it.

I had been out to Four Springs having a paddle in my Feelfree kayak and when I got back to the boat ramp a very enthusiastic Patrick Morehouse was there telling me how many fish he had caught with his dad. It was exciting to see how excited he was.

And if dad doesn’t think to stop them, kids will tell you exactly what happened, where and on what.

Adults are somewhat more sneaky and secretive. So a tip for you is, talk to the kids.

Parents and grandparents and kids fishing is fundamental to us having a good and improving fishery. This sort of thing is so good to see in a world that seems all too busy.

We are all keen to help kids out and I for one am more enthusiastic about helping and sponsoring kids fishing events than for adults.

sponsoring the inaugural Brushy Lagoon competition. The Longford, Westbury and Devonport clubs are running this as a fund raiser to help improve Brushy.

This was a fishery that was not so long ago about to be closed by Forestry Tasmania due to the rubbish that was left around. It has been adopted by the clubs above and nows rates highly as a put and take fishery. Check out the details of the comp. on page 38.

The all new ‘bells and whistles’ www. tasfish.com is online now. It is all new and upgraded. Hundreds of past TFBN stories will be searchable on line for free. There is weather, tides, webcams, current news, a blog and all the usual guff.

If you register using your email you get a weekly newsletter of the very latest news. It took a long time and we are very happy with it.

Talking about sponsorship, www. tasfish.com, our website is

Tasmanian Fishing and Boating News Published by Michael Stevens PO Box 7504, Launceston, 7250.

Ph/fax; 6331 1278 Email; fishn@bigpond.net.au Advertising: Quenton Higgs - 0427 129 949 Stevens Publishing, ABN 79 095 217 299

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Fishing News - Page 3

Restoration of the grave of Alfred Ronalds On Sunday 17 August, members of the Victorian Fly Fishers Association and the Ballarat Fly Fishing Club attended a short ceremony to mark the restoration of the grave of Alfred Ronalds at the Old Ballarat Cemetery. It was the culmination of an appeal which was launched by the VFFA in 2000 for funds to restore his grave, which had been destroyed by vandals. The appeal was launched at the initiative of well-known fly fishing journalist, fly tier and VFFA member, Rick Keam, and followed an article by Mick Hall on the life of Ronalds which appeared in The Flyfishers Annual (Volume 6, 2001) of which Rick was the editor.

The Australian and international fly fishing community owe a great debt of gratitude to these two men, for Alfred Ronalds is undoubtedly one of the major figures in the history of fly fishing. When the appeal was launched, Rick wrote of Ronalds: He was born in 1802 in London, his father died when Alfred was four years of age, and he commenced an apprenticeship as an engraver and printer and subsequently moved to Staffordshire in the Midlands where he married. During his time in Staffordshire Alfred developed a passionate interest in flyfishing. He was close to the river Trent and its tributaries, the Blythe and the Dove, the latter already famous through the writings of Charles Cotton and Izaak Walton in The Compleat Angler and no doubt he was familiar with their works.

Alfred performed his own research on trout and their habits with insects. By the Blythe he built a small bankside fishing hut.

It was clad with heath and designed to overhang a part of the river so that it could act as an observatory. The building was octagonal and contained only three windows, situated four feet or so above the river surface. The middle window commanded a view of a fast run, and each of the other two a small eddy or whirlpool. The curtains had peep-holes, so that the observers and their movements could not be seen by the trout. The bank of the river had also been built up so that one could approach without scaring the river's inhabitants.

Using his hut and his own astute observations, Alfred built up his knowledge of flyfishing and in 1836 his landmark book The Fly-Fisher's Entomology was published. This was a serious study of entomology as applied to flyfishing and contained numerous colour plates of insects and artificial flies to imitate them. It was decades, ahead of its time and ran to many editions.

Members of the Victorian Fly Fishers Association and the Ballarat Fly Fishing Club attended a short ceremony to mark the restoration of the grave of Alfred Ronalds at the Old Ballarat Cemetery.

Alfred subsequently moved to North Wales and became involved in the production of trout flies, and following other relocations set up as a full time tackle maker and fly tier. His wife died in 1847 and seeking a fresh start, he migrated to Australia with six children. Landing in Melbourne he soon set up as an engraver and the following year remarried. With the discovery of gold he set out with other hopefuls and tried his luck variously at Castlemaine, Bendigo and finally Ballarat, where he settled on six acres and ran a successful market garden on the banks of Lake Wendouree. Two years later he died suddenly of a stroke on 23 April, 1860.

Within four years of his death, trout were introduced to Australia and Lake Wendouree received its first stocking in 1871.

He was a remarkable man and left a huge legacy to the sport of flyfishing. In an extensive commentary on Alfred Ronalds in his two volumes work Trout, Ernest Schweibert comments: ‘Alfred Ronalds is one of the principal milestones in the entire history of flyfishing; with his Entomology, the rational basis of the scientific method had reached angling in full flower. The graphic work is

beautifully executed and the copperplate lithography remains equal to most modern printing technology. Alfred Ronalds is the prototypical mixture of angler and aquatic biologist that would emerge again after midcentury and continue to play a major role in fly-fishing theory.’

Rick Keam carried out a lot of the initial groundwork obtaining stonemasons’ and placquemakers’ quotes, corresponding with the Cemetery Trustees and chasing up Ronalds family members.

Clive Allison provided useful advice. However, the project could not have succeeded without the subsequent help of Rick, Jim Allen, who together with the VFFA made a substantial financial contribution towards the restoration of the grave, and John Pilkington who spent many hours discussing the restoration with Ronalds' relatives, negotiating with the Cemetery Trustees and organising the replacement of the monument. On behalf of the VFFA, John Philbrick presented John Pilkington with an inscribed copy of a limited edition copy of The Fly-Fisher's Entomology in recognition of his efforts.

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Fishing News - Page 5

Fishing Flinders Island made easy

For those of you that have never fished Flinders Island, do yourselves a favour! Take John Orchard’s advice and DO IT. For an island that only takes an hour to drive from one end to the other, it is packed with some of the best recreational fishing to be found in Tasmania.

I have been fortunate enough to fish this scenic island on numerous occasions over the past six years and have enjoyed not just the fabulous fishing, but also the warm friendly hospitality of the local islanders, some of whom are now friends for life.

If you have never been there before, it can seem a rather daunting task to organize - how to get there, when to go, what to take with you, transport on the island itself, where to stay and where to fish.

The following tips will take most of the hassle out of what I am sure will be the first of many trips and the start of a long association with Flinders Island, the fisherman’s paradise.

Gettin there

Although Airlines of Tasmania run a service from Launceston airport to Whitemark in the “centre” of the island, I prefer to use Flinders Island Aviation based out of Bridport in the States North East and arriving at Lady Barron on the southern end of the island.

The proprietor of the airline (Gordon Rorison) and his chief pilot (Frank) are both keen fishermen and are always good for the latest up to date tips on what is being caught and where – handy information to know each time you set foot on the island, especially if it’s your first trip there!!!

Where to stay

Lady Barron township is reasonably well sheltered from the prevailing westerly winds and offers a number of comfortable self contained holiday cottages for rent in the area, most within easy walking distance of the airport, local shop, Tavern and of course the fishing.

For your first trip, I would suggest you stay at the scenic Furneaux Tavern, it is comfortable, affordable and I doubt there is a better place in the world to enjoy a beer and a feed at the end of a great days fishing than here, the views across the Furneaux Sound are simply breathtaking.

This will make a great base for most of your fishing whilst you get a feel for the island and give you time to check out some of the other great alternative accommodation that is available in the area.

Transport

There are a number of car hire establishments on the island including Bowman Lees car hire and Flinders Island Car Rentals just to name a couple. Both are reasonably priced, based in the Whitemark area and will arrange to drop a vehicle off at either airport for you. At least one of these businesses offers a mini bus for those that need extra seating. It is important to check availability prior to booking your trip as they are sometimes fully booked out at peak times of the holiday season.

Food, fuel and tackle

Due to the cost of transport getting to the island (where excess luggage is charged on a “per kilo basis”), you will need to purchase the bulk of your groceries on the island.

Lady Barron store in the south offers fuel, a wide range of groceries and most of the basic fishing tackle you will need on the island.

At Whitemark, you will find the islands butchery (which also has some basic fishing tackle!), a hotel that offers a great counter meal, Bowman’s General store which offers fuel and a wide range of groceries, a great little bakery plus the post office, newsagent, and a couple of touristy gift shops.

When to go

As with anywhere else in Tasmania, the calmest months on the island are predominantly March till May inclusive however, there is excellent fishing to be had on the island from October right through until the beginning of winter.

From June to October the weather can be cold, windy, unpleasant and just too risky to reliably plan a good fishing trip.

Where ever possible, try to plan your trip when the weather pattern is relatively stable or when there have been at least a few days of westerly weather prior to your trip. The best of the surf fishing beaches are on the eastern side of the island and westerly weather offers at least some shelter in the advent of stronger winds and more importantly helps keep the beaches on the eastern side of the island “weed free”.

What to take

A good quality 12’ surf casting outfit is a must for targeting a number of species from the beaches. Monster flathead, gummy shark, Australian salmon and silver trevally can all be caught on a days fishing from the beaches around Flinders Island.

Continued on page 8.........

Divers Paradise Enjoy one of the best fishing destinations in Australia Lady Barron Holiday Home—comfortable self contained accommoda-

Fishing holiday packages, 2 to 5 days. Continental shelf, inshore and surfcateredfor.From tunaandtrumpetertosnapperandkingfish -fishwithJamesLuddington0363594507 www.flindersisland.com.au James Luddington Ph 03 63594 507 Fishing News - Page 6

tion in a garden setting with sea views of Franklin Sound.It is just a moment from the waters edge and within walking distance to restaurant, supermarket/post office/news agent and all attractions that Lady Barron has to offer.

This 3 bedroom home sleeps 6. The main bedroom has a king size double or 2 king singles. The other 2 bedroom both have twin singles. There is a fully equipped kitchen. The lounge room has DVD/VCR, TV.,& CD player and sliding doors to front patio—great place to watch movement of boats and yachts. A reverse cycle heater/ cooler has been installed for winter/summer comfort. Most of the year yiu have the choice of a gas or wood BBQ. Separate laundry has washer, dryer, airer, iron and ironing board.

The house is opposite the start to the Lady Barron coastal walk also the boat slip area one of the popular fishing spots. The wharf is also very popular with fishermen and within easy walking distance. The tennis courts are nearby and tennis racquets are supplied. A visit to Vinegar Hill is essential as the views of Franklin Sound and Islands are superb and is within walking distance. Flinders Island has a lot to offer and all attractions are amazingly close and a short distance by car.

Phone Allan or Pat on (03) 6359 3555

Flinders Island is a diver’s paradise.

Diving, fishing, snorkelling; day or halfday fishing tours or cruises.

Shipwrecks, reef dives, scenic dives, drift dives, crayfish and abalone diving, photography, naturalist and research dives are all in abundance.

Flinders Island Dive - Mike Nichols (03) 6359 8429

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A general purpose combo around 7 or 8 foot is ideal for targeting Australian Salmon from rocky outcrops and doubles as a superb outfit for catching squid from the wharves at both Lady Barron and Whitemark as well as from the shore at picturesque Trousers Point and Salmon Rocks on the Big River Road.

A light weight “soft action” combo suitable spooled with light line for those keen fishers wishing to target the island’s monster garfish.

A good quality soft plastic outfit spooled with braid is a must for those wishing to target flathead in the shallows.

Finally, a tackle box filled with an assortment of good quality surf rigs, hooks, sinkers, silver slices, soft plastics, squid jigs, floats, a torch and a good map of Flinders Island.

WHERE TO FISH Squid

Whitemark and Lady Barron wharves.

Trousers Point immediately below the barbeque/camping area.

Salmon Rocks (Eastern end of Trousers Point beach).

Salmon

Although Australian Salmon can be normally taken from all of the surf fishing beaches, by far the most exciting salmon fishing is to be experienced from the large rock outcrop at the mouth of the North East River.

Extreme caution should be exercised in this area due to strong tidal currents combined with unpredictable swells and slippery rocks.

Big gummy sharks

Garfish

Garfish are most prevalent amongst the sea grass beds close to the shore around the Island. My most successful gar fishing spot has been from the granite shoreline between the Lady Barron slipway and Lady Barron wharf.

Flathead

Surf fishing from the eastern beaches can be extremely productive for catching the extra large flathead. Places that I have had good success include Dick Davey shoal, Pot Boil Point and the entire eastern shore from the Pot Boil break out to Sellar Point near Babel Island, Patriach Inlet and North Beach on the western side of the North East River. Many of the western beaches in easterly weather will also produce flathead. These include Tanner and Marshall Bay, Lillies Beach and Long Point.

The latter western beaches I have just mentioned may not look appealing due to the vast amount of weed beds and shallow water but don’t be fooled, they are superb locations for wading whilst flicking soft plastic lures.

Monster gummy sharks

Gummy shark

When the moon is full it’s the time to target Gummy Shark from any of the Eastern beaches.

Yellowtail kingfish

Lady Barron wharf in January and February can often produce excellent fishing for those intent on chasing these bullets of the sea. Red Bluff on the Eastern side can also be productive when the tide and weather conditions are right.

Deep sea fishing

For the more adventurous fisher, a telephone call to James Luddington or Leigh Cox of Flinders Island Adventures is all it takes to target all of the previously mentioned species plus tuna, snapper, striped trumpeter, blueeye trevalla, hapuka, sharks and more.

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Fishing News - Page 8

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Fishing News - Page 9 22/9/08 9:32:53 AM

Flinders Island Adventures

Flinders Island Adventures have run fishing holidays for over 20 years. With our 2 x 10 metre boats, Strait Lady, skipper James Luddington and Vanora, Leigh Cox, we can take you fishing either around the islands or out to the Continental Shelf. For a day of surf fishing we can take you in a comfortable Landcruiser to the North-East River, renowned for the size of the blackback salmon, trevally, flathead and tailor. We supply all the necessary rods gear and bait. Our packages include accommodation in comfortable holiday cottages in Lady Barron or the Furneaux Tavern and flights to Flinders are available from Launceston or Melbourne with Airlines of Tasmania, Georgetown, Launceston and Bridport with Flinders Island Aviation.

Flinders Island, largest of 52 islands in the Furneaux group, let’s you choose between fishing the channels and shallower waters of Eastern Bass Strait for snapper, kingfish, gummies and school sharks, as well as only being a short run out to the warmer waters of the continental shelf; there you can fish the reefs for striped trumpeter and blue-eye trevalla. In summer catch yellowfin, striped marlin and albacore, as well as the makos that follow the pelagics. Try a few days fishing in Tasmania’s best and most diverse waters.

Flinders Island Adventures are not only the island’s fishing specialists, but also offer a range of land based holidays and tours. You can tour the island by 4WD Landcruiser, exploring the areas that the visitor rarely sees, or indulge in a touring or walking package, enjoying the superb scenery, history and bird life. Lindsay Luddington can show you the best of the island whether as a day trip or a seven day walking package. Small and larger groups catered for.

Flinders Island Adventures has featured on Hook, Line and Sinker, Rex Hunt Fishing Show, Getaway and many other television features. We are a Tourism and Tasmanian Parks Accredited Business, using local guides, the better to show you the best Flinders has to offer.

Contact – James or Lindsay Luddington Flinders Island Adventures.

Avondale, Flinders Island, Tas 7255 Ph 03 6359 4507 Fax 03 63594533 http://www.flindersisland.com.au

Lady Barron Holiday Home

Self Contained Flinders Island Accommodation Lady Barron Holiday Home accommodation is your home away from home on Flinders Island, only a moment from the water’s edge with superb views of Franklin Sound and Cape Barron Island. You will have all the space and convenience of a three bedroom house that comfortably sleeps six or more people.

This comfortable Flinders Island accommodation house, is just walking distance from enjoying everything Lady Barron

has to offer. From fishing at the local wharf, to swimming on magnificent beaches Flinders Island offers adventure and romance.

From Vinegar Hill lookout there are excellent views across the Furneaux Islands from Franklin Sound to Cape Barren Island and the wreck of the Farsund. You are also walking distance from the Furneaux Tavern and Restaurant, and the local Flinders Island supermarket/news agent/post office. Or hire a car and explore everything Flinders Island has to offer.

Year round Flinders Island is wonderful although Autumn is the season most Islanders say the Island is at it’s best. Usually very calm weather and is still quite warm during the day with very flat seas and lovely reflections.

You will enjoy a truly tranquil and stress-free environment at Lady Barron Holiday Home - Flinders Island accommodation, just perfect for a couple, a family or a group of friends.

Contact - Allan or Pat Masters Lady Barron Holiday Home 31 Franklin Parade Lady Barron, Flinders Island 7255 Phone – (03) 6359 3555 Email: mastersflinders@bigpond.com www.ladybarron.com

Airlines of Tasmania Your link to Flinders Island

Lady Barron Cottage

Lady Barron Cottage, Flinders Island, is comfortable fully self contained accommodation within walking distance to all that Lady Barron has to offer.

Walk to the jetty and catch a fish, go to the general store for some shopping, or just wander down to the tavern for a meal or a drink with the locals.

The Cottage offers a family, or group of persons a pleasant base from which to enjoy your Flinders Island holiday. There is a comfortable lounge with wood heater, TV and stereo, with polished floor boards being a feature throughout.

The fully equipped kitchen contains an oven stove, fridge freezer, microwave, and everything you need to prepare your own in house meals, while at the same time enjoying the views of Adelaide Bay and the Strzelicki Ranges. A laundry with washing machine, dryer and ironing board, and an outside BBQ are also available. There are three comfortable bedrooms, a master bedroom with a double bed, bunkroom with two double bunks, and a room with two single beds.

While staying at Lady Barron Cottage, you can enjoy many of the nearby local surrounds of Lady Barron. Start by taking in the spectacular sea, mountain and island views from Vinegar Hill. Beachcomb for Nautilus shells along the nearby beaches, while also watching out for the seals and dolphins

Stackhouse Beachfront Accommodation

Lady Barron Cottage A great place to stay while you explore, discover, sightsee and fish Flinders Island Phone 6359 3703 Fishing News - Page 10

2074249 dp

Fully equipped cottage with all home comforts. Contact Shane or Dianne.

Flights available from Melbourne and Launceston Book online at www.airtasmania.com.au p: 1800 144 460 e: flinders@airtasmania.com.au

People search the world for a place like Flinders Island...

Absolute beach frontage to Killiecrankie Bay. Explore endlessly the surrounds via the beach, rock-hopping or bushwalking tracks.

You can practically fish from the balcony or if your casting is not so good, walk the 30 metres to the fishing rock right outside the front door.

Phone: 03 6359 6518

that regularly frequent Lady Barron’s pristine waters. Good fishing is a feature at the local jetty, and you can also watch out for any crayfishermen bringing in their catch. Exploring the coastal walking track presents a unique opportunity to take in the numerous natural assets of Lady Barron.

Contact - Shane or Dianne Walsh Lady Barron Cottage C/- Post office Lady Barron 7255 Phone - 6359 3703: Mob. - 0408 175 528 www.focusonflinders.com.au www.flindersislandonline.com.au

Airlines of Tasmania

Flinders Island is the largest of 52 islands that makes up the Furneaux group of Islands, located in Eastern Bass strait.

These spectacular islands are the remains of the land bridge that once linked Tasmania with Victoria. Airlines of Tasmania is now that bridge, offering daily flights to this remote island destination.

Visiting Flinders Island is like going back in time where the friendly local still give you a wave as they drive by. It is an Island rich in wildlife and home to large populations of birds. The fishing is beyond belief with fishing charters available and just how many beaches do you want to yourself. With spectacular mountains rising from the sea, the sunset is a sight to behold.

There is plenty to explore, from fossicking for Killikrankie diamonds, to climbing Mt Strzelecki in the Strzelecki National Park.

Airlines of Tasmania have introduced a 19 passenger Dornier 228, turbine powered aircraft, which has made the trip to Flinders faster, safer and more comfortable. Flights are available from Launceston and Melbourne, and you can book online at www.airtasmania.com.au People really do search the world for a place like Flinders Island.

Airlines of Tasmania Launceston Airport, Evandale Road Reservations: 1800 144460

Flinders Island Dive

Flinders Island is located twenty kilometres off the north east tip of Tasmania. Flinders Island is the largest of the Furneaux group of islands. The Furneaux group of islands lie in the eastern quadrant of Bass Strait separating Victoria from Tasmania.

Flinders Island is approximately 29 kilometres wide and sixty four kilometres long.

Flinders Island is a diver’s paradise. Shipwrecks, reef dives, scenic dives, drift dives, crayfish and abalone diving, photography, naturalist and research dives are all in abundance with little or no commercial pressure. Water temperature is around 20C in summer with excellent visibility (12 - 20 metres) and depths ranging to 35+ metres up to 15 metres on most dives this is true adventure diving. Diving at Flinders Island is year round though mid November to late March is particularly good.

Our guide Mike Nichols (SSI Dive Instructor) has over 30 years diving experience, excellent local knowledge and plans dives to meet individual’s requirements. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride as Mike takes you around the Furneaux Group aboard his fully equipped 12 metre purpose built steel dive vessel ‘ Bass Pyramid ‘.

Contact – Mike Nichols Flinders Island Dive 22 Wireless Station Road Emita, Flinders Island 7255 Phone/fax: (03) 6359 8429

Flinders Island contacts

Lady Barron Holiday Home (03) 63593555 Lady Barron Cottage (03) 63593703 Stackhouse Beachfront Accom. (03) 63596518 Flinders Island Adventures (03) 63594507 Flinders Island Dive (03) 63598429 Airlines of Tasmania 1800 144460

Stackhouse Beachfront Accommodation

As its name suggests – enjoy absolute beach frontage to Killiecrankie Bay in one of the original Flinders Island homesteads that was completely renovated in 2007.

Whitemark, the main supply town, is thirty minutes drive south. A private landing strip in Killiecrankie is suitable for light aircraft.

The homestead has 2 queen bedrooms downstairs, 1 queen bedroom upstairs and 4 single beds in 2 rooms upstairs. Although there is bedding for ten, we recommend about six people for maximum comfort.

There is a shower and bathroom with a separate lavatory and laundry. The kitchen is equipped with most appliances – dishwasher, bread maker, sandwich maker, microwave and outdoor barbeque.

The main living room is centred around a dry stone fireplace created using the local granite.

From the homestead you can explore endlessly the surrounds via the beach, rockhopping or bushwalking tracks. You can practically fish from the balcony or if your casting is not so good, walk the 30 metres to the fishing rock right outside the front door and dip your rod in – or maybe just paddle your toes in the bright aqua water.

Lobster, abalone, snapper, salmon, gummy shark and flat head are always available in season. If fishing is not your thing, try your hand at diamond fossicing (white topaz) on the beach in front of the house or just sit on the balcony and enjoy the view.

Contact – Mike or Liz Grimshaw Flinders Island Pastoral Company Killiecrankie, Flinders Island 7255 Phone: 03 6359 6518 Email: pettygrimshaw@bigpond.com

Map image supplied by TASMAP © State of Tasmania

Fishing News - Page 11

Penstock Lagoon Since the creation of Penstock Lagoon in the early 20th Century to hold water for the Waddamana Power Scheme, Penstock has build a strong and lasting reputation as a challenging and rewarding fishery for both Brown and Rainbow trout. With a dun hatch that was regarded as one of the finest anywhere, polaroiding on bright days for large browns sipping black spinners and trout foraging the shallows for damsel fly and mudeye larvae the lagoon has always offered exciting opportunities for the persistent and observant angler to catch with quality fish.

It is usually in October and November in Penstock Lagoon when the trout really start to come on the feed.

The water has warmed significantly from the 2 to 3 degree range of opening weekend to a balmy 8 or 9 degree Celsius. Insect life becomes more active and trout continue to recover from the rigors of winter as they feed heartily on the more active aquatic life abundant in the lagoon. Into November the first of the mayfly appear and Penstock usually offers some of the better and more reliable dun hatches for the early season.

Around the shores

Penstock is one of those places where wading can be a bit of a challenge, the years of silt build up is held together by good weed growth, however as you wade your feet will still sink slightly making a full day of wading a bit of an energy draining exercise. That said however there is ample opportunity to walk the shore and only wade periodically amongst the strap weed as you see signs of movement from the trout pushing their way amongst the strap weed for damsel nymphs, stick caddis and mudeye. With a bit of a walk the Eastern shore is forested and has a solid bank, this shore needs little if any wading and holds fish right through the

Penstock Lagoon is renowned for quality rainbows. season. This shore is on private land however there is a 10 metre easement along the shore line to allow angler access.

Hot spots around the Western side (road shore)of Penstock include Canal Shore around the pin reeds, Ladys Walk and the Tree Shore to the Southern Wall. The points and bays right along the Eastern Shore, and although less fishy looking the Northern and Southern walls also hold plenty of fish. The Southern Wall especially has a reputation for big trout feeding on duns and spinners as they collect on mass as any form of Northerly wind blows them into this pocket of the lagoon.

Around the shores all of the usual patterns associated with foraging fish will suffice, Fur Fly, Yeti, and damsel imitations will all work well. With abundant strap weed getting the trout to see the fly is more of a challenge, make numerous presentations along the anticipated path of the trout. Don't be afraid to slap the fly down a bit and to give it a good twitch for a retrieve as these trout are looking for larger prey which has the ability to be very mobile in the water. As the dun hatch kicks off, particularly on windy days some very good fish will mop up duns as they drift along the edges of the strap weed,

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The catastrohic impact of accidentally introduced alga “Didymo”, also known as Rock Snot, on New Zealand’s freshwater environment.

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Photo - Brad Harris

One drop of water. One microscopic cell. One ecological disaster.

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That’s all it takes. Don’t take our fishery for granted.

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Fishing News - Page 12

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Fishing News - Page 13 BRP920_375x255_Jelly_a.indd 1

15/7/08 4:26:51 PM

A large brown about to be released.

these are quite often bigger, quality fish which will present a few 'interesting' moments when first hooked from the shore line side of the strap weed.

On days where there is nothing happening blind fishing along the outside edge of the strap weed and in fact out into the lagoon will produce results. Concentrate on fishing to structure like pockets of weed, around visible stumps and anywhere that looks fishy. With the exception of the dam walls a floating line is all that is required along the bulk of the shore, the water is generally not more that 600mm deep close to shore.

Boat

Inland Fisheries, MAST and Hydro have done a great deal of work in 2007 to upgrade the boating and camping facilities. The car park and camping areas have been formalised to make getting in and out of the lagoon more user friendly while vehicular access to the Western shore has been limited to prevent erosion from driving on the soft ground. Once on the water the trip from the ramp out to the greater part of the lagoon is still a bit of a drama however as the canal is generally no more than 400mm deep and care needs to be taken as stirring up piles of silt will not make you popular with the anglers fishing around the canal shore.

Penstock is only a shallow piece of water no more than 6ft deep, the centre of the lake is rainbow territory, particularly off Crisps Point (The shack shore) and the Southern end of the lagoon where it narrows towards the wall. Brown trout can appear anywhere through the lake but hot spots tend to be closer to shore around the areas already listed. Depending on how windy the day is and how fast or slow you want to fish.

Lines from intermediate to type 5 can be successfully used in the deeper water. Rainbows show readily when the duns are about but tend to move about more quickly that the browns.

Judging their direction and speed is the key to success and this is something that takes a bit of getting used to. Even with a lot of boat traffic on the lake you can still find the odd trout in a quiet corner or working up a scum line in the wind gutsing down large numbers of duns. These fish are always a joy to see as they are relatively easy keeping their snouts out of the water makes judging their movement totally predictable.

A wide range of flies will work from the boat or shore, bead head Woolly Buggers in various colour and flash combinations, traditional wet flies such as the Dunkeld or Zulu. Dry Flies including the famous Penstock Brown, Lodge’s Emerger, Parachute Dun and nymph patterns including seals fur nymphs and stick caddis representations.

The late John Brookes identified in his book Lifelong Pleasure that Penstock Lagoon is a fishery that requires special attention. He hit the nail right on the head in referring to one of his last days fishing Penstock saying; “Though Penstock will stay high and clear and have a reasonable stock of fish, I am not sure that it will be able to cope with the angling pressure ahead of it. It is going to be a delicate and difficult fisheries management job to maintain the quality of fly fishing there.”

Fishing News - Page 14

Inland Fisheries Service seem to have recognised the issues with heavy angler pressure on Penstock, they have stepped up stocking and created a reduced bag limit with increased sizes for both brown and rainbow trout. A bag limit of three fish total with a minimum size being 420mm for brown trout and 400mm for rainbows.

Other special regulations include ● 5 knot speed limit for boats. ● Restrictions for boats fishing within 100 metres of anglers on the shore unless moored.

IFS has also entered into a rigorous stocking regime to ensure that Penstock Lagoon continues to deliver quality fishing.

The table below shows stocking for 20072008.

Although Penstock is a relatively small water which at times has been subjected to a lot of angling pressure it still produces some of the finest quality trout in the highlands, thanks in no small part to a consistent stocking and monitoring scheme by the Inland Fisheries Service. Further to this with the popularity of Woods Lake exploding over the last few years angling pressure should ease this year to make Penstock Lagoon a great option.

Joe Riley

Looking north easterly from the Southern Wall.

Penstock stocking figures for 2007 – 2008.

15/3/07 13/4/07 24/5/07 28/9/07 17/4/08 25/4/08 28/5/08 10/7/08

Rainbow trout Brown trout Brown trout Brown trout Brown trout Rainbow trout Brown trout Brown trout

7,000 3,500 490 20,000 80 5,000 200 250

Fingerling Fingerling Adult Fry Adult Fingerling Adult Fingerling

A variety of flies to suit most occasions.

Fishing News - Page 15

Western Wilderness fishing I started bushwalking a few years before I started fishing in earnest so it is only natural that I later combined the two and began to explore Tasmania’s Western Lakes. One of the first trips I did and one which I have done again recently was the Pine Valley and its associated lakes and tarns. Despite visiting this area several times, I still find it has everything to offer the bushwalking/fishing enthusiast and its somewhere I will probably visit until I’m too old to do so comfortably. It features a number of waters that mostly contain high numbers of moderate sized trout and several nearby trophy waters for the occasional monster. The area is easy to walk through, has tracks leading in from both ends to the valley and the headwaters rise in what would have to be one of Tasmania’s most scenic areas, the Walls of Jerusalem National Park.

Access

The Pine Valley can be accessed from either Ada Lagoon in the east or through the Walls of Jerusalem in the west. It probably depends where you live in the state as to which end you start from. Ideally get dropped off one end and picked up the other, this will mean you don’t have to back track and cover old ground. Total distance for this through walk is around 35 km which equates to a nice three day walk. I’ll write this article as if starting from the Ada Lagoon carpark, this seems to be the most common starting point.

Now regardless what you have read about being able to drive further out to Talinah Lagoon, don’t bother. The track can be walked in as quick a time as driving as its extremely rough and sometimes very boggy below Ada Lagoon. Simply follow the vehicle track and after an hour’s walk (5 km) you will find yourself starting to descend towards Powena Creek.

In front of you and to the right stretching up the valley are the three small Talleh Lagoons. They all contain trout up to about 3 lb, the upper most is probably the easiest to walk around and polaroid but hell, they’re all on the way so take a couple of hours to fish them. Back behind you nestled in the trees in Theresa Lagoon. This also has fish up to about 3 lb but they are not numerous. If you are already buggered or have spend too much time fishing the lagoons then there are some magnificent sheltered campsites near the western end of Theresa. If you’re right to continue simply follow the old track down the Powena valley where you will emerge at the shores of Lake Antimony and the start of the Pine River Valley. Here there is an old hut, which is hardly inviting, what is inviting is the excellent wade polaroiding to be had in the vast shallow sandy expanses of Antimony. At normal mid

A photograph before release. summer levels this lake can be almost completely waded and due to the perfect sand bottom the trout, all around 2-3 lb ,stand out like the proverbial dogs things.

Pine Valley

Now if you have managed to make it this far then you have run out of marked track which ends near the hut but don’t despair if your navigation skills aren’t up to speed because all that’s left is an easy stroll up the valley (That U shaped area leading to the north west). Next lake up only 500 m further on is Silver Lake. Its easy to walk around although you will have to cross the Pine River each end but thats hardly life threatening. Its moderately deep and features clumps of iseotes weed which the trout cruise around. If you strike the right day the dun hatches are great but the fish are hard to spot if they dive deep after each take. Now this is the first place up the valley to venture off briefly to fish a big fish water namely Nearana and Galaxias. Both are about a 20 minute walk south or south west through light scrub and really deserve a whole days fishing. Expect fish above 5 lb but you will only see a handful in each lake.

Back to the valley and another 2 km see you at my three favourite waters, Sally, Sonya and Solveig. All lakes are similar in size, all have good campsites and contain heaps of fish in the 1-2.5 lb mark. Something I have found is that on certain days the majority of fish seem to favour either the north or south shoreline. The inflows on each lake are obvious hotspots. If you simply base your trip around just getting to and fishing these three waters you will not be disappointed. In perfect sun the fish stand out well in Sally and Sonya. Solveig is a bit deeper and probably holds a higher number of smaller trout.

From these lakes the next deviation is across the moors to Lake Ah Chees, the lake of snakes and ants. I’m not kidding, try walking around it on a hot summers day without seeing at least four black tiger snakes and try sitting down for one minute on the southern shoreline without attracting one million ants. The guidebooks will tell you that this lake used to hold some large trout. I think they have mostly been caught or died of old age but once you see the deep southern half it is possible that some still exist, its just a matter of picking the right day.

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Fishing News - Page 16

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Back to the valley and a final 5 kilometre slog to the headwater of the Pine River, Lake Ball set against the most scenic backdrop in Tasmania, the Walls of Jerusalem. There are excellent campsites just west of the outflow in amongst the huge pencil pines. The flat marshy shoreline that runs around the northern side into the park is an excellent area to fish, devoid of any vegetation that inhibits fly casting. The remainder of this Z shaped lake is largely forested right to the water and probably does not receive much angling pressure.

The fish are not huge, around 1.5 lb but there are plenty of them. What this area may lack in fishing quality however is made up for in scenic beauty. Looking north into the Walls Of Jerusalem National Park from the back shore of Lake Ball is simply breathtaking. This has got to be THE area where fishing and backpacking really come together. Once the sun is too low to fish, lay down the fly rod and walk up along the western wall ridgeline to the top of Halls Buttress. The views which take in most of Tassie from Mount Wellington to Cradle are fantastic. You also get full service from a next G phone in the park via the tower near Lake Echo (according Classic 444.8.125x10.875 to my phone bill).

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Walls of Jerusalem and beyond

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Now if you have walked in the 12 km from the Walls carpark near Lake Rowallan then your trip to this area is just beginning. I hope you have removed all your belongings from your vehicle and left your empty glovebox down to show the local car burglar there is nothing left worth smashing your $200 quartervent window for. Note that broken glass in the carpark is not accidental. The first 5 km in this way is a bit of an uphill slog but the walk through the park down to Lake Ball through the Jaffa Vale is worth it. Once you have fished Lake Ball I’m sure you will be eager to explore the lakes further south namely Nugara, Penah,Toorah and Three Arm. All four are a great day walk using Lake Ball as a base camp. Nugara is deep and slightly murky with light scrub and marsh around the entire shoreline. It does not hold a huge head of fish but they are all between 2-5 lb and in good condition. Its about a 25 minute walk from Lake Ball. Next straight down the valley is Three Arm and as the name suggests it has three main parts. Three Arm contains heaps of trout around 2-3 lb but many of the banks are very thick scrub and impossible to fish. The recommended shore would be the southern and eastern areas. Once you’ve lapped the lake come back up the eastern side and visit Penah on your way out. Stay on the eastern side and fish your way around the shallow bays, most are shallow enough to polaroid the 2-4 pounders that inhabit this lake.

Toorah is the headwater up this system but generally quite deep.

It probably contains some great trout but if they aren’t rising from the depths they will be hard to spot even in the crystal clear water. Up and down two small valleys puts you back at Nugara then back over to Lake Ball.

If you are just starting out with this backpacking/fishing thing then this area is a perfect place to start. It offers easy walking and cross country navigating with plenty of fishing locations and scenery to boot. The Ada 1:25000 Tasmap covers the whole area from Ada Lagoon to the Walls.

1:24 PM

Page 1

Action on Lake Ball.

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Fishing News - Page 17

These are excellent scale maps to navigate with, the lighter areas depict the grassy marsh areas which provide easier walking than the lightly forested areas. If you study this map in detail you will see that south of the Pine River Valley there are a number of these marsh areas marked on the map which will lead you to most lakes. Even if you end up in the forested parts don’t panic, most of the scrub is light enough to walk through with little effort.

I don’t care how badly you fish, float a dry fly long enough on the main waters in the Pine River Valley and you will catch fish. I haven’t gone much into fishing methods in this article but you can probably guess that when it comes to Western Lakes angling for me it is now the dry fly above all else. I certainly didn’t start this way however and my first three trips into this area I was armed with the ever reliable collapsible spinning rod coupled with celta and cobra wobbler. I caught heaps on these lures but only when the weather was rough or overcast. I now only fly fish the Western Lakes with fly and red tags, black spinners, dun patterns and floating brown nymph will suffice in the valley. Best times are obviously mid summer with sunny skies.

I will mention bushwalking equipment briefly as there are three items that you must choose wisely, boots,pack and tent. For boots I keep coming back to full leather scarpas. Yes they cost a fortune and will only last 3-4 years depending on use but for comfort and rugged construction they are hard to beat. For pack and tent look no further than Macpac. Their packs come in a number of different styles and sizes and are simply the most comfortable you can carry. Their tents are easy to put up and hard to blow down. Again like the Scarpas you will pay big money for these items but in the long run they are worth it. And no I’m not sponsored in any way by these companies, simply trial and error over the many years I have explored this area. By the way did I mention the huge trophy trout waters further south below the Pine Valley, I guess they will have to wait until next time.

Shane Flude

Looking over Three Arm Lake.

Looking over Three Arm Lake towards the Walls.

Map courtesy of Tasmaps.

Fishing News - Page 18

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Fishing News - Page 19

Mersey River at Bells Parade, Latrobe The Bells Parade area at Latrobe seems at first glance an unlikely fishing spot. The Latrobe council has done a magnificent job at this park area and in conjunction with groups such as Rotary they have bar-b-que’s, gazebo’s and children’s play equipment not to mention the well manicured lawns. But it’s the magnificent fishing that’s on offer here that were going to talk about.

The stretch of water we will cover starts at the Mersey Main Road bridge to an area downstream approximately 1.6km’s.

The whole body of water here is tidal and open to many variables that can affect your fishing, such as flooding. This can occur any time of the year and whilst some fish may still hold in this water it does tend to put the angler off as a raging torrent of brown muddy water will put down anybodies spirits.

It doesn’t just bother the angler though as fish are put off by it to. As fresh water is pushed out in such large volumes in a flood it upsets the balance of certain species such as bream, whitebait and sea run trout.

These fish need a certain level of salinity to survive and so get pushed further back out the estuary towards the sea. It does not how ever take long for the fish to return once the fresh water has cleared. A few of the species you will encounter are seasonal here. Such as luderick(blackfish) bream, whitebait and sea run trout.

Fishing News - Page 20

Luderick

The luderick aren’t targeted by many people which is probably a good thing as they aren’t in great numbers in the Mersey system and would suffer from over fishing.

They do however provide excellent sport on light tackle and at times dedicated blackfish anglers use 9-10 rods with very light tips that fold away upon hook set but with extremely powerful but sections to turn fish from getting back into the snags. Most Luderick fishing is done with floats and specialist rigs using green sea cabbage as bait but I have heard of a few coming on baits such as peeled prawn. The secret with luderick is to look for habitat and use as light a line as possible with very small hooks as they have a very small parrot like mouth.

Bream

Bream are only in the Mersey system seasonally to spawn. I am yet to see or hear of anyone catching a bream at any other time of year other than those caught from the spawning run. We know from scientific studies that bream in Tasmania move from system to system and so I’m convinced that Mersey caught fish are from other estuaries such as Port Sorrell. Any bream you encounter in the upper Mersey from September to February are there to spawn so please exercise restraint and only take what you need for a feed. Most of these fish are 20 years old and much older as bream are very slow growing. A fish of 2kg+ can be 30+ years old so stop and think about how many you take. Last year I bumped into a bloke that had five absolute crackers that were all over 2kg and when asked if he liked eating them he said “Nah just feed em to my cat most of the time”. Needless to say he copped an ear full from me.

Mark Cadle with an 11 lb trout from Bells Parade.

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Fishing News - Page 21

Bream are probably my favourite sport fish. I use and recommend rods for spinning to be fast tapered(stiff) and have plenty of power as these are big fish here and you need to be able to turn them. For bait fishing an 8-9ft rod with a soft tip action is ideal and the extra length helps around snags and with the height of the banks off the water. For bait anything from prawns, blue bait, whitebait and even squid will catch fish but it’s the ever humble crab that produces better fish and you also don’t have the problem of nuisance fish such as toadies and juvenile salmon pinching baits.

Sea run trout

Sea runners as they are so aptly called can be in the Mersey at anytime but usually they come in following whitebait as they enter the system to spawn. It can be difficult for anglers at times to distinguish a Sea runner form a resident trout as residents will move down a river into brackish water to meet the whitebait as well. Sea runners tend to have a real silver hue to them and will often drop a mess of scales when handled especially the smaller fish. Sea runners will often give away there presence by smashing into whitebait schools as they swim past the trout in his hiding position or in shallow water a bow wave can be seen as the trout chases the bait.

The fact that these fish are chasing whitebait does not mean they won’t take a lure or dead baits. But the more successful anglers whom match the hatch are the ones who year after year catch 10+ fish such as the Cadle brothers. Mark and David are unbelievable sea runner fishermen. Whilst I can’t give away their trade secrets what I can say is use live bait and be prepared to put in some long nights. Lures and flies that represent whitebait can also work well such as soft plastics and clear glass minnow type hard bodies.

Areas to fish

1. This run from the bridge down to approximately the first bridge. This area is a straight fairly shallow run unless the tide is well up. Very little structure on the eastern shore and willows and trees on opposite bank. This area see’s very little fishing pressure but don’t be fooled by its luck luster look. It’s a great stretch to spin or work a fly over. I generally wouldn’t bait fish it as there is not much fish holding structure and would see more transient fish moving through here. I would

stick to lures that dive less than 5ft and from up on the high bank these should work at about 2-3 feet with a slow roll.

When the whitebait are about I switch to a stop and start twitching retrieve. A floating lure works well to if you see a fish working cast well ahead so not to spook it and let the lure float down to where the fish is before beginning your retrieve.

Never cast straight at a fish.

2. The fork where the ‘back river’ meets the main channel.

This is an extremely productive spot for trout and bream and can be fished from the eastern bank or from the island. Casting Bream are one of the author’s favourites and lures up current and working Bells Parade produces quite a few. them back will see strikes as will floating baits under a clear bubble float half filled with water anglers spinning here and watch them get follow after follow to aid in casting distance. The are more fish holding lies here and notice they aren’t wearing Polaroid sunglasses and can’t see and don’t be scared to fish hard in against the edges as this is what’s going on and leave dejected thinking there was nothing where a lot of fish will lie in ambush. about. This is one of my favorite spots for spinning for Bream 3. This is probably the most popular spot for people bait on the first of the run in tide and the first of the run out. I fishing as there is good holding structure in the form of prefer using 4lb fluorocarbon straight through (no Braid) in boulders protecting the bank and it’s also where some of the this water as it’s usually clear and shallow and the bream wary. deepest water can be found. All species can be caught here. Small lures in green or brown glass hues are best.

Be aware that it is a high bank though and a long handled net 5. The water blow the weir is the most favored and would be a necessity. One rig I am yet to try but convinced productive spot for luderick and bream. Usually this water would work here is to fish a one hook paternoster rig with a is discolored because of the mud banks but it’s lined like sinker heavy enough to just hold on the bottom and a 6 inch a natural riverbank with plenty of scrub and fallen logs to dropper tied up the line about 18 inches from the sinker. On provide structure. The area right behind the weir is a great spot this I would put a straight shanked #1 hook and put on a 3” to Polaroid fish traveling over the weir with the tide. Access minnow or wriggle tail soft plastic and just cast it out and let is very limited with a small car park a hundred meters or so the current work the plastic. In the water it just looks like a from the weir. Be careful if walking the bank as it’s difficult little bait fish swimming. to negotiate and has soft edges. This is prime country to use 4. This long stretch of water is usually quite shallow unless crab baits but prawns will suffice. fishing a rising or high tide. Immediately below the bridge is a 6. This is the start of what is referred to as the back river. good riffle fairly close to the Eastern shore and spinning here Good depth and plenty of structure see plenty of fish caught or drifting a bait over it often produces a fish. I quite often see here each year. A favorite spot for sea runners hard in on the shore and good for bream out deeper.

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Fishing News - Page 22

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7. Shallow water through area is great for spinning and using plastics. I haven’t seen any bream through here but they would have to be there. Trout can be caught all along here and will be seen chasing whitebait.

Conclusion.

This park area is beautiful and is great place to take the wife and kids for a picnic or bar-b-que whilst you have a fish for an hour or so. During the summer there is quite a vibe here and lots of people will be doing the same as you and throwing Frisbees to there dogs. Even though the banks are high off the water it’s a safe place to teach kids to fish as the grassed edges provide a comfortable classroom and gear can be laid out without fear of snagging a bush behind you. There are plenty of good fish caught here each year and it keeps producing but whilst keeping a feed is quite ok I do advocate catch and release on the bream and only keep trout for your immediate needs. You can always come back and catch more!

Leroy Tirant

GEAR BOX BAIT FISHING 7-9 foot rod with soft tip action.

2500- 3500 size reel to balance on rod 4-8lb fluorocarbon Size 1/0 Black Magic KS hooks for use with crabs Size 2 Black Magic KS hooks for use with Prawns Size 4-5 Ball sinker SPINNING 7-7’6” Graphite Fast tapered rod 1000-2500 sized reel 4-6lb fluorocarbon or 4lb Braid with 6lb Fluorocarbon leader 6 foot long Rapala 6cm CGM Squidgy Stiffy in Prowler colour Daiwa Presso Minnow in AYU colour Strike Pro Smelta in 154RG, JU004G, Red Eye, 502G (My preferred lure) 3” Berkley power Minnow in Casper Clear or Pearl Olive FLY FISHING 5 or 6WT rod matched with a floating line.

Long leader of 12-14ft with 6lb tippet Small whitebait type flies.

Looking downstream from1.

Looking upstream from 4.

BBQ area.

Looking upstream from 2.

Looking downstream from 4.

Looking upstream towards weir at 5.

Looking downstream from 3.

Looking downstream between 4 and 5.

Looking downstream from 5.

Fishing News - Page 23

Bream on Fly I’ve been hooked on fly-fishing since I was a teenager. Pursuing trout and many salt-water species with the fly has been a big part of my fishing. Fly-fishing can take you on a life long lesson in casting, presentation, fish behaviour and the life cycles of the many different insects; crustations and baitfish, that make up the diet of the fish you want to catch. With each year your casting improves, as does your catch rate. The more you can learn about the fish species you want to catch, the better angler you become. This is probably the reason why I have never lost interest in fly-fishing. Sure, there are other forms of fishing that are far easier and more productive at times, but for me, fly fishing has been the most rewarding.

Salt water fly fishing opens up a whole new set of challenges to overcome with so many different types of fish to target with a fly. One of the great things about this type of fishing are the many milestones you can achieve, first Australian salmon, first tuna, first shark and the list goes on.

With each new fish species there is a whole new lifecycle and feeding habits to learn about. These days there is so much information available to the fly fisher. The Internet along with the many fishing magazine articles offer a starting point and often the inspiration needed to go out and try something new yourself. Bream are one salt-water species that are defiantly worth pursuing with a fly in Tasmania. We have some huge fish in our waters. Many unstoppable on light lines when hooked amongst the snags. In many respects bream are a lot like trout in their behaviour and the way they can be caught using a fly.

Tailing Bream

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Like trout, bream will move into the shallows to feed and at times have their backs and fins out of the water. My first encounter with tailing bream was while Steve Hambleton and I were fly fishing from his canoe. The tide had turned and was on its way back in when we spotted a large fish just under the

It is recommended NOT to eat bream from the Derwent due to heavy metal contamination.

They are big though and great fun to catch. surface, slowly making it’s way up towards us with the tide.

At first it looked like a sea run trout of around four or five pounds. This was enough to get us both pretty excited with a few explicit words coming from our mouths. I put out a cast as it came within range and slowly twitched the fly across its path. It wasn’t the slightest bit interested in my fly or the presentation I used. Steve did the same but again it refused to acknowledge the fly. By now it was directly across from us allowing a much better angle to see the true identity of the fish. From the depth and shape of the fish it wasn’t a trout, it was a huge thumping big bream. We managed to fit in two more casts before it eventually spooked off. We were both just getting over the sight of such a large bream when two more of similar size swam down stream along the shallow edge of the channel.

Steve landed his fly half a metre in front of the two bream and worked his yellow Clouser across the mud in front of the lead fish. One of the two fish seized his fly with a swirl and sped off down stream as it felt the unnatural weight of the line. The fight was short lived as the hook pulled on the first run. By now the tide had pushed up over the mud flats so we moved onto the shallows hoping to see some more bream. The water was about 300mm deep and slightly discoloured. A dark shape, the size of a small stingray, slowly made its way across the flats. Suddenly the dark shape had three sets of fins poking out of the water. These were tailing bream in very shallow water. We couldn’t believe our luck. There’s something about fishing to tailing fish that gets SHARPEST AND STRONGEST SINCE 1877 the heart pumping just a little faster. After Steve’s success

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Fishing News - Page 24

with his yellow Clouser, I had changed my fly to a small yellow Clouser tied on a size 8 nymph hook. We took turns casting to the small group of tailing fish, but like trout with their heads down and tails up, they ignored our presentations. As Steve was changing flies I decided to change the presentation and land my fly on their heads. The cast went out and the fly disappeared in amongst the fins. I striped the fly once and was instantly hooked up. The water erupted as the group fled across the flats into deep water taking my fish with them. Line peeled off the reel as I applied some side strain to prevent the fish reaching the oyster-covered rocks on the far bank. The fish pulled the front of the canoe around as I applied the pressure, pulling it up before the rocks. I started to gain line back as the fish swam back towards us, now just two rod lengths off the canoe. The size of the fish could be seen as it flashed in and out of sight on a short line. A few more tense moments followed, as the big bream charged around the canoe, before lying on its side allowing Steve to slip his hand under the fish.

This was a good fish, probably four to five pounds, too big to take home, and no doubt full of spawn. A few quick shots with the camera to capture the moment before she was released back into the water.

Rods and reels

One of the great things about targeting bream on fly is that you can use the same outfit you would use to catch any trout. Specialised salt-water fly rods and reels are not needed when targeting bream. Anything from a 7 weight down to a 4 weight will pull up most bream with a little side strain.

The choice of rod usually has more to do with the wind and weight of the flies you want to cast. I like to use a rod that is at least nine foot long to make casting long lines over the flats a little easier.

Some people are a bit reluctant to use their trout fly rod and reel in the salt water, with thoughts of reels seizing and rod eyes rusting the moment they cast a line into saltwater.

As long as you give your gear a rinse in fresh water after each session, there’s no reason why you can’t use it in both salt and fresh water. I‘ve used my 6 weight Sage outfit in both salt and fresh water for years now and have never had a problem. Even the larger salt-water fly rods and reels need to be looked after in the same way.

Lines

For blind searching the deeper channels I like to use a clear intermediate weight forward line with a 10-pound fluoro carbon tippet. Ten pound may seem a little heavy, especially when most people using soft plastics are fishing with four and six pound line, but there is a good reason for opting for a heavier line when there are large bream about. When a big

bream takes the fly hard on a fast strip there is not always enough stretch in the line to stop the line breaking when you have the fly rod pointing straight at the fly.

For the times when sight fishing is an option or when fishing shallow water, I like to use a floating line. A floating line is good for imparting a rise and fall action to a weighted fly and for suspending a fly in front of bream holding near the surface or stacked up under an exposed snag. The slightest nip from a bream is detected by watching the end of your fly line.

You can respond instantly to any sign of a take with a solid strip strike using your line hand. This can produce a hook up or provoke an aggressive take.

Last summer I was busted up by a big bream, using this method. I had crept up to a snag that always holds a few fish and could just make out the shape of a bream holding hard up under the submerged tree limb. I made the cast and let the fly slowly sink under the branch. The end of the fly line jolted forward, I quickly stripped the line but felt nothing.

Within a second the line was ripped from my hand as a bream crunched the fly, turned and charged back under the branch.

My rod hand clamped back onto the fly line as I laid the rod over to one side in an attempt to draw the fish out from the snag, but it was too late. The leader had broken as the bream left a huge swirl on the other side of the snag, leaving me shell shocked. It all happened so quickly, I had no chance on such a large fish that was determined to drill me back into the submerged branches.

Flies

Bream feed on shellfish, crabs, shrimps, worms and small baitfish. These food items give the fly tiers creative mind plenty to think about and some great patterns have been developed over the years. Any fly that is going to represent a shrimp or a small baitfish is going to get some reaction from a bream.

Flies such as clousers and Muzz Wilson’s BMS flies in a variety of colours are proven bream takers.

When bream are not in an aggressive mood they have a tendency to nip at the fly rather than taking it all the way into their mouths. When they do this, the heavy stainless steel hooks that so many of our salt water flies are tied, on don’t seem to hook up too well, or stay connected in this situation. Flies tied on small chemically sharpened hooks have a much better hook up rate, with most of the fish being hooked in their rubbery lips as they go in for that first explorative nip of the fly. Once the hook has pinned those lips they just don’t come out. I tie most of my flies on a size 8 B820 Kamasan Nymph hook.

These are a straight eye long shanked hook that can be easily bent to make a bend back style fly or tied with bead chain or lead eyes to tie the many different variations of the Clouser Minnow pattern. Colours that have worked for me are green, black, yellow, red and white, and gold.

Retrieves

Presentation and imparting the right action to the fly is a big part in provoking a take. As with most fish, there are a variety of retrieves that will work on bream. From a fast stop start strip to a very slow retrieve that barely moves the fly. Two of the more reliable retrieves are the Barra strip and a slow foot long strip. The Barra strip consists of two very quick short strips, followed by a one, two, or three-second pause then one quick strip followed by another pause, before repeating the sequence. This imparts a wounded baitfish action to the fly that will often trigger a response from many predatory fish.

Where to find them

it moves in with the tide. The East Coast has a thriving population of Black Bream and is a great place to hone your skills and gain some confidence. Places such as the Scamander River Road Bridge is easily accessible and always seems to hold a few bream, willing to take a fly.

Bream spawn mid water, in the upper reaches of the estuary river systems where fresh meets salt.

During spring and summer, bream move up from the lower estuary and hold up in the upper reaches ready to spawn. It’s this time of year when most people start to Let the big fish go so they can keep breeding. seriously target bream.

Low tide can be a good time to Fish this size could be 20-30 years old. fish the deeper holes where schools of bream drop back to, before following the tide back over new out in the deep water for a while, eventually tiring, allowing ground to feed or move further up the river to spawn. As the me to bring it into the shallows to be released. tide starts to move, this can produce some great fishing as they prepare to feed. Side channels and gutters are a good place to Something to think about intercept bream moving onto the flats. As the tide covers more In Tasmania huge black beam are caught every year during of the flats, bream will spread out in search of food. their spawning run up the estuaries, many weighing up to five In the upper reaches snags and rock ledges give protection pounds or more. Bream are very slow growing and fish of to spawning fish and are always worth several casts with this size could be anywhere from fifteen to twenty years old. different retrieves and flies. Bream are very easily spooked and These large fish are capable of producing three million eggs will respond best to flies when your presence is not known. each. The bream in our waters get to these impressive sizes The first or second cast to a fish, snag or rock ledge will usually over many years due to relatively low fishing pressure through have the best chance of success. out the year. The small estuary systems along the north coast When fly fishing from the shore it can be very tempting to have a much smaller population of bream and are rarely put the first cast out as far as you can, as you would if you were caught during any other time of the year. Thankfully, more casting a lure or soft plastic. Do this and you have probably and more anglers are realising the value of these big fish and just spooked every bream under your fly line. You only have are more than happy to take a photo before returning them to sit quietly on the bank for a while to see bream swimming to breed another year and get bigger again. It’s quite a sight past under your nose. It’s far more productive to first fish the to see these big fish pushing up our rivers each year on their water in front of you before lengthening the cast. annual spawning run. I think a photo of a big bream fresh out While fishing from a large rock I watched two bream of the water and then being released is far more impressive materialise from the depths of the main channel and make than one on the dinner table or a frozen fish pulled out of the their way straight for the rock I was standing on. I froze as freezer to tell the story. I’d much rather keep a smaller fish for they continued towards me disappearing under the rock ledge the table and release the bigger fish to ensure their presence at my feet. With barely the length of my leader hanging from in our estuaries for many years to come. Bream of that size the rod tip, I lowered a white Bucktail fly down to where the are too valuable to catch only once. two bream had vanished. Holding the fly out from the ledge, Craig Rist I gave it the slightest twitch. One of the bream eased out from under the ledge, stopping within inches of the shimmering fly. At this point I could see every scale on its back.

Something wasn’t quite right with the presentation as it retreated back under the rock. Thinking this fish wasn’t comfortable accepting the fly at that depth I allowed the fly to sink deeper and gave it another twitch.

This time the bream eased out and snapped up the fly. I struck instantly, the rod tip was pulled towards the ledge as I locked up and tried to use the rods length to pull the fish out from under the ledge at my feet. Not wining the battle under the ledge it charged out to the deeper water, where it laid on its side slugging it

Black Bream spend most of their time living in our estuaries and coastal lagoons.

However, during heavy floods they are pushed outside the river mouths at times, but will return as soon as the floods subside.

Obvious places to find bream are along the drop off to deeper water, around structures such as logs, bridges, oyster racks, •Strong,reliableperrock ledges and out on the formance shallows searching for food on an incoming tide. Bream can be •Highcrankingpower found feeding over mud, sand, • Shock endurance rocks, oysters and weed covered • No Vibe™ vibration areas. Like trout, bream will resistance sit out of the main current in the deep holes of back eddies •Highreservecapacity created by sand bars and rocky points ready to ambush prey as •Envelopedseparators

Try a selection of flies with different weights, colours and styles.

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Fishing News - Page 25

Derwent trout worth the chase The Derwent River is one of my favorite trout fisheries, it can be a good challenge to the best fishermen. I always look forward to the first few months of the season on the river the weather is pretty good. I found that an overcast day with a gentle breeze is the way, the fish seem to come on good in these conditions. So far this season I have bagged 17 trout, all these fish were resident fish. All fish apart from one were caught on soft plastic, the other on fly.

I find drift spinning the shallow flats and the weedy shores can be very rewarding. This style of fishing means that you can cover a greater stretch of water. Often when you drift over a drop off on a incoming tide you will find the fish are starting to move up onto the flats.

When I fish these areas I keep a look out for some kinds of feed that trout may feed on such as beetles, white bait, shrimp, and sometimes fly life. At this time of the year whitebait is on the main menu.

When chasing these fabulous fish I choose to use soft plastics and sometimes the good old hard body. Soft plastics are my favorite way to catch trout and there is a great range to choose from.

I mostly use 3 inch minnows for they look like the trusty old whitebait. Most of the fish I have landed this season were caught on 3 inch minnows. The colors that I found most deadly were dark greens, light greens and silver eg. Emerald shiner, Pearl watermelon and Blue pearl. These plastics are in the Berkley Power Bait range.

When I use hard bodies I use a good old Johnson special in green and silver or black and gold with red spots. If you have some of these, and prefer to use hard bodies give them a crack. They are dynamite on the Derwent.

Rigs

When rigging soft plastics I use 8 pound braided line, with an 8 pound leader about 6ft long. Try a 1/8 jighead as this give enough weight for a reasonable cast and action without sinking too quickly.

I work my plastics with a slow retrive with an up and down motion, letting the plastic bounce off the bottom or running it across the weed.

When fishing the drop-offs I occasionaly let the plastic sit on the weed then let it drop deeper, the fish sit under the

Drifting the river and fishing drop-offs can be very rewarding. weed and you can see the fish come out and smash it then its up to you to keep it out of the weed.

Most of my trout fishing in the Derwent is done north of the Bridgewater Bridge.

Above here you will find big flats, drop-offs and weedy shores.

If you have some time to spare give it a go the rewards can be great. You don’t need to spend heaps, a rod and reel combo and a few jig heads with a handful of soft plastics and you have a weapon to rod target trout.

You can also access some of these great spots by car if you don’t have a boat. There is a new jetty at Masons Point for you to use if your not too good on the feet and I have caught many trout over the years off that point.

So give it a crack and enjoy your fishing and the rewards will come to you. The trout are in good condition at the moment in the Derwent and they have plenty of go if you like a good fight. See you all on the River somewhere.

Alistair Creed

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Fishing News - Page 26

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Fishing News - Page 27

St Helens - Tasmania’s Springtime

Sportsfishing Hotspot Its always been a perception that if you lived in Tasmania and you wanted quality sports fishing then you had to travel far and wide to experience anything decent…..well not anymore.

St Helens is fast becoming known all over the country as a hot sportsfishing destination offering a wide diversity of fish species and options for both the intrepid sports angler and the weekend dangler. With fantastic flats fishing for dedicated fly and plastic fisherman to quality “bread & butter” estuary fishing for the family man it’s all here on offer.

It is the perfect destination for family based fishing offering sheltered waters for small craft, excellent launching facilities; easily accessible jetty’s and wharfs for the land based angler, lots of quality affordable accommodation and all right on your doorstep.

the line anywhere near the hook as the fish will bite through your line. A basic paternoster rig with the sinker on the bottom and 1 or 2 hooks above it is all that is needed keeping the whole outfit nice and simple. If fishing a burley trail from the back of a boat an un-weighted bait floated down the trail can result in some great visual fishing. The leatherjacket is an under rated eating fish and exhibits a firm white flesh with a very sweet taste, however peeling the skin off the fish is a must. Once skinned and filleted they are a great eating fish to take home for the family.

Snapper

Flathead

With the many sand flat and mud flat areas around Georges Bay it is of no surprise that good numbers of flathead are caught throughout the spring and summer months. The bay Leatherjacket lends itself to being a bit of a nursery for Flathead with great The humble old leatherjacket are available in Georges Bay numbers of small juvenile fish, an indication of a very healthy all year round and are a staple table fish of many families, they fishery, however as spring approaches the abundant, nutrient are relatively easy to catch, are widespread all over the bay and rich mudflats become a veritable treasure trove of tasty food can be quite often found grazing on the barnacles and weed items for the flathead to feed on, the fish putting on condition growth on the pylons which make them a great target for the very quickly. Anglers have no trouble catching a feed of legal kids. Whilst fish of up to 3-4lb are regularly caught around sized fish as summer approaches. the bay 1-2lb examples are most common and only require As the tide rises the fish will move up onto the flats feeding the most basic of fishing tackle to catch. When fishing for on all manner of items such as small crabs and crustaceans, leatherjacket the use of long shank hooks is a must, sizes #1- prawns, shrimps, sandworms, nippers and small baitfish all #2 are perfect for the bay, as the fish have very strong teeth being dispersed as the water floods the new ground. As the and jaws and will bite through the line very easily. The long tide recedes flathead will sit on the drop offs and gutters on the shank hooks give a bit more security against bite offs although outer edges of the flats waiting in ambush of any tasty morsel I have seen fish bite clean through a hook shank. moving past them. It is at this stage that the angler has the best Just about any bait available at a tackle shop will work for chance of capture as the fish will attack nearly anything that leatherjacket, they tend not to be fussy eaters especially when moves past it, baits such as squid, blue bait, pippies and prawns it comes to soft plastics where they show no discrimination are all good however nothing beats a freshly pumped nipper whatsoever and will decimate any plastic put in front of their from the sand flats at low tide. Flathead respond well to bait face. I have found a piece of squid or peeled prawn flesh to be that is moving so a slow drift over the flats or a slow retrieve very effective, just be careful not to have any bait residue on sliding the bait across the bottom will be very effective.

Flathead are also a prime species for targeting with soft plastics and from my experience this technique results in much larger than average fish most of the time. My favourite plastics lures for this method are #2 and #3 Squidgy Fish in Gary Glitter, Killer Tomato and Mint Jelly or #3 and #4 Squidgy Wriggler in Wasabi Test and Gary Glitter. Sitting up on t drive a e * Centre-Line Length: 6.2m the mud and sand flats in 2-5 Lindisfarn metres of water is ideal and the * Maximum Beam: 2.4m boat show * Weight: 1300KG Approx. technique involves casting out 8-9 Nov. as far as possible and letting * Dead-Rise: 21º * Maximum Power: 230HP the lure fall to the bottom, then * Max EngineWeight: 350Kg a quick lift and drop hopping *Transom Height Single: 25” it all the way back to the boat, (Twin Motors:20”) every now and then throwing * Load Capacity: Nine Adults in an aggressive whip into the *LengthOverallonTrailerincluding retrieve to get the attention of Engine: 7.4m any interested fish nearby. *OverallHeightonTrailer:2.4m Flathead are considered by * Width On Trailer: 2.4m most of the fishing public to be one of the best eating fish Test t a ve ri d * Centre-Line Length: 6.0m in the sea and those caught in e Georges Bay are no exception, rn fa is Lind * Maximum Beam: 2.4m w o sh t boa * Weight: 1100KG Approx. whack a simple fillet off each side, remove the rib bones, a v. o N 8-9 * Dead-Rise: 21º * Maximum Power: 225HP quick dip in some batter or * Max EngineWeight: 279Kg dust with some crumb mix and you have a dining experience * Transom Height: 25” *LoadCapacity:SevenAdults fit for kings.

Kingfish

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Australian salmon

The Australian salmon would have to rate as one of the most popular sports fish this country has to offer and Georges Bay finds itself home to large schools of fish

Bream

reaching sizes of up to 6 lb through the spring and summer months, many of these fish have stayed all winter growing fat and powerful.

Since the banning of commercial and recreational netting in the bay the salmon have come back with a vengeance and as each year goes by larger schools and larger fish are showing up and being caught by the average angler. Australian salmon respond well to a number of different baits such as blue bait, whitebait, squid, pippies, sandworms and prawns but “matching the hatch” is always your best option and if the fish are chasing bait schools then the smaller fish bait is the best option.

As spring approaches large schools of whitebait, small pilchards and anchovies move into the bay and this is what the salmon follow staying for most of the summer feeding on the masses of baitfish available.

The salmon tend to roam the bay following the bait but likely spots to start are the main channel leading out to the barway and the Moulting Bay area, all the while keeping a lookout for hovering birds and pelicans on the move While the salmon are focussed on the bait schools it is prime time to target the fish with artificial means such as lure, soft plastics and saltwater fly.

Lures such as Halco Slices and Twisty’s, Raiders, Snipers and Norstream Sluk lures in the 15-30 gram sizes work wonders especially if retrieved at high speed, even skipping the lure across the surface can attract savage strikes from hungry salmon and makes for exiting Visual fishing. Soft plastic lures such as Squidgy Fish in Black and Gold, Evil Minnow and Silver Fox and Squidgy Flick baits in Evil Minnow and Pilly are all deadly on Salmon. When the Salmon are marauding a bait school simply casting out a soft plastic and letting it sink down slowly will usually result in a hook-up if not either a straight retrieve back to the boat or a twitch-and-drop retrieve will be effective.

If targeting salmon on fly tackle a good #6-7 weight fly rod with plenty of backing should subdue all but the largest specimens with leaders tippets around 8-12lb. Flies such as Deceivers, Bon Bon and Clousers will all work well and once again either a fast stripping retrieve or let the fly sink then fast jerky retrieves back to the boat with intermittent pauses will result in savage strikes from the salmon. Sometimes clasping the fly rod under your arm and double handed stripping at high speed will result in savage takes from timid fish. This technique will sometimes fire up the fish and get them in the mood.

Whilst not considered much of a table fish by most, if dispatched immediately after capture, bled, filleted and placed on ice salmon will offer a tasty meal on the BBQ that night with the smaller fish being the sweetest.

Just about every jetty will produce small trevally and it is quite possibly the very fish that most of us would have cut our teeth on as youngsters.

The humble little trevally, or not so little in Georges Bay’s case, have fast become the best sportfish Tasmanian estuarine waters have to offer and they can be easily caught by pretty much everybody.

The explosion in numbers and size of silver trevally in St Helens waters over the last few seasons is evidence once again that the ban on netting is improving the fishery all the time and certainly helping St Helens keep the banner as the best sports fishing destination in Tasmania.

Trevally averaging 300-350mm fork length seems to be most common and can be caught with much the same tackle as the salmon. However these fish seem to be much fussier about the baits they will eat and require a little more attention to detail in the presentation. Trevally will respond very well

to a good berley trail. Small pieces of peeled prawn flesh, pippies or chicken breast meat floated unweighted down the berley trail appearing as natural as possible are very effective as are the use of sabiki rigs with small pieces of bait added to the hooks. The bite from a trevally can at times be very subtle and requires a bit more concentration from the angler to strike at the right time but once hooked can test light tackle out to its limits.

However fish of up to 60cm fork length and 5-6lb in weight are being caught by anglers fishing soft plastics in Georges Bay, St Helens every weekend throughout the spring and summer months.

Jig heads in the 1/16th to 1/8th size are perfect for this technique and by far the best plastics I have found are the Pro Range Squidgy Wriggler in Bloodworm, Evil Minnow and Wasabi, Squidgy Flick Baits in various colours both with SFactor scent added as well as Berkley 6” Sandworm in Natural

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St Helens Bait & Tackle in g r fish t u o y l l oas fo r a the c n o s need

Silver Trevally

Silver trevally are one of the most prolific species in our estuarine waters and are one of the “bread and butter” species caught by children.

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and Berkley 2” Powergrub in Pumpkinseed.

Cast the plastics out and let them sink and sit on the bottom for a moment, quite often the fish will pick it up off the bottom, then either a slow lift and drop all the way back to the boat or alternatively small hopping twitches combined with slow lifting will draw strikes from the trevally Being a high speed swimmer they like locations with current flow so areas with a good tidal influence, strong flow with access to sand flats and rocky, reefy structure close by are where to start looking the main channel leading out to the barway is a good place to start, drifting the channel with the incoming tide along the edges and around the pylons seems to consistently produce fish. Once hooked trevally are awesome fighters on light tackle testing drags and leaders to the limit and are heaps of fun whilst also being a reasonable table fish.

Bream

As the Christmas months approach large schools of quality bream start to move around the bay, hanging around wharfs, jetty’s, moored boats, oyster racks feeding and all over the expanses of sand and mudflats exposed at low tide. They feed heavily on the rich barnacles, mussels and small crustaceans that abound in these areas and grow fat and powerful. Once again effective use of berley will attract schools of fish to your area, whether from a boat or from the shore (jetty, wharf). Baits such as peeled prawn flesh, pippies and mussels work well as do freshly pumped nippers and small black crabs. A standard running ball sinker rig is ideal combined with an octopus style hook in sizes #2 through to 1/0 to match the bait being used. Also unweighted baits drifted

down the berley trail will not be refused by a hungry little bream.

Small bream are abundant all around the bay near any sort of structure and will keep the kids occupied all day, however if its larger specimens you are after than targeting them with soft plastics and hard body bibbed lures is for you. Plastics such as 80mm & 100mm Pro Range Squidgy Wrigglers in Wasabi, Bloodworm and Evil Minnow and the new 50mm Flash Prawn in Wasabi are all dynamite on Georges Bay bream. Area’s to concentrate are around any structure, wharfs, jetties, pylons, oyster racks, moored boats and shallow rocky points.

One of my favourite areas for bream is the extensive sand flats and mudflats throughout the bay, some of the biggest schools and largest bream come from up on the shallow sand and mudflats in less than 1 metre of water. One of my favourite techniques for this area, so long as there is very little weed, is the use of hard body lures. Without a doubt the Bushy’s Stiffy has led the way in bream catching ability and is my first choice when hitting the flats after bream in Georges Bay. There are 3 stand out colours and they are the Prowler, the Rack Attack and the Tassie Tiger, the lure is designed to have an erratic action that responds well to a bit of angler input. It can be worked fast or slow and it is a killer if you just stop the lure and let it rise very slowly towards the surface.

Other lures worthy of a cast are Strike Pro Smelta, Bass-X and Pygmy styles all in various colours. I start with a basic long cast and slow winding retrieve back letting the lure just bounce its bib across the sand. If this does not bring a strike from a fish then a pause every now and then and small twitches in the

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retrieve may trigger the bream to attack the lure, once hooked on the shallows the bream will peel line off your reel and carve up the flats testing the light tackle to its limits.

Kingfish

Yellowtail kingfish are no longer just a chance catch in Georges Bay anymore, returning every summer now for the last couple of seasons. Over the years anglers had caught the odd fish or three whilst trolling for salmon but had never found any fish in numbers however now some anglers are heading out targeting the fish, particularly with soft plastics. While still not an easy fish to catch many have had great success in boating quality fish on a regular basis using no more

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than light tackle used for chasing bream and trevally, a testament to the quality of tackle today. The kingfish will school up with the Salmon and tend to like areas with good current flows and just love to hang out around channel markers. They use the back eddy’s to great advantage and will hold up behind the Pylon in the turbulent water waiting to dart off and chase some prey. Kingfish will give a hard fight and peel off heaps of line in blistering runs so be prepared as you may have to chase the fish down. Some plastics that have been successful are the Squidgy Flick Baits in both Evil Minnow and Pilly colours in the slightly larger 85mm size flicked in behind the pylons and worked through the fast current running past.

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Fishing News - Page 30

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Snapper

It is a well know fact that Tasmania’s coast line has been producing quality snapper for many years now and Georges Bay is no exception. Whilst numbers and sizes are not high many anglers are starting to see them show up on a much more regular basis and are usually mixed in with bream and trevally. Most fish are just pan sized however fish of up to 3-4kg have been reported every season and with a bit of time and dedication we will see more fish of this calibre caught in the future. Many small fish have come to kid’s just dangling bait off the jetty but some of the better quality fish have come to the soft plastic brigade showing that more specific techniques need to be adopted when targeting snapper. A popular style of fishing for bigger snapper is to be out on the water predawn before sunrise, send out a good berley trail and use big baits such as whole pilchards and garfish fishing right through to sunrise, not a style suited to everyone.

Whiting

Good quality King George whiting and large sand whiting are now becoming a much more frequent species being caught by anglers in Georges Bay. As the bay is abundant with small shellfish, crabs, worms and nippers it is no wonder that these fish have started to show in better numbers. We may well be a few years off having populations like the bream and trevally but the fact that these fish are showing up on a regular basis is a fantastic sign that the fishery is strong and healthy, once again testimony to the effect the ban on netting has on this amazing estuary.

Not only is the fishing great, Georges Bay has good ramps and usually a protected shore.

Tackle

For general bait and spin fishing a good quality 3-6kg 6’6” spinning rod will cover most situations, matched to a good 3000-4000 size spinning reel, such as Shimano Slade and Sienna, you will have an outfit that will last for years and will do the job for many fishing styles. For soft plastic fishing I favour 7’ rods as it allows for more distance in the cast and allows for better accuracy over distance. Rods such as Shimano Catana & Starlo Stix are perfect for the job and matched with a 2500 size reel, such as Shimano Sienna and Siedo, spooled with a quality GSP line will see you armed for anything St Helens can throw at you on soft plastics.

As you can see Georges Bay offers a huge variety of fish species and fishing options as we move through spring and into summer.

The water temperatures warm up and the aquatic life becomes very active creating a perfect environment for fish and bird life.

Some other species such as sea run trout, garfish, squid, elephant fish, mullet, mackerel and tailor also show up on a regular basis providing one of the few places in Australia where you have the possibility of catching 8-10 different species of fish all in one day only minutes from the front door of your accommodation. The options are endless and we see more and more species showing up as each season passes, fishing improving all the time and species sizes become larger and larger.

So next time you have a weekend spare and need to get your fishing fix grab the family and head east to Georges Bay St Helens where the sun is always shining and the fish are always hungry, and while you are here stop in and see me, Jamie, at St Helens Bait and Tackle for all your tackle and tips on the East Coast.

Jamie Henderson

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North West Trout Introduction:

I have fished for trout along the north west coast with the old man for many years now and have only just started to get some results of my own from fishing from some of my favourite rivers and dams. My most productive place to fish has been the Cam River and the Pet Dam, both being close to my home town, Burnie. Fishing from about 6 in the morning till 5 in the evening I usually get a result or get my behind kicked by a friend or a concentrating father!

Cam River:

The Cam is a good place to start fishing from any point of view, whether it be catching mullet on a peeled prawn or poloroiding big sea run trout with a fly in the shallows. I personally use soft plastics up this river just because of the fact that the fish love them!

I use a 1/16 jighead with either a Squidgie fish in the colour Gary Glitter, or a flick bait Sashimi Shrimp, and the most effective soft plastic I find is a berkley 3 inch pearl Green Olive minnow.

Hard bodies also work down stream near the mouth on big sea run trout but dont work as well up stream in the hard running white water were a the lightly coloured bass minnow whith a lot of wrist action usually does the job.

You must use a lot of wrist and arm movement when using flick baits and minnows because the fish rely on their senses especially in the dirty and deeper parts of the river and the more twitches you put in each cast, the more likely a fish is to sensing the vibrations in the water.

Soaking a worm is also very effective in the Cam and there is many nice cosy areas where you can sit back and relax.

In the Cam the fish are usually at the mouth or right up the top. I find that the further you go upstream the more the fish, not so much the real big ones but more little fish ranging from 1 to 2 pounds. At the mouth I tend to catch larger fish ranging from 2 to 3 pounds and it would not surprise me if there were 4 to 5 pounders in the river system.

Inglis River:

The Ingis is much longer than the Cam and is more harder to find fish as I have noticed from my last couple of trips. The Inglis is loaded with whitebait at the moment and it is critical that you find the feed so you can sneek a cast in where the trout are most likely to be. Fishing the Inglis can be difficult at times but can be great if you manage to get to the faster water upstream. I walk up and down the public exercise track that is

The author caught this nice brownie from the Cam River. located on both sides of the river. I generaly walk until I locate some whitebait in shallow water where trout are hunting. You can often hear the large splashes in the distance from large sea run trout smashing the small schools of whitebait. If you manage to see a trout attack a school of whitebait I would put on a finnese jighead with a 3 inch minnow coloured smelt and cast it were the trout has jumped. This acts like a stunned or dead fish and the trout may come back for a look.

Up the Inglis I use a 1/16 jighead and a Squidgie Sashimi Shrimp or a Gulp Turtleback worm in pumkinseed. I fish very slowly with these two and give a quick twitch and jerk and let them sink with a gentle wriggle of the wrist.

With the Gulp Turtleback worm the trout or a pesky toadfish will take it on the drop so it always to have a constant tightness of the the line so you can feel the fish.

If the toadfish become a major problem with your terminal tackle you may have to swich over to a hard bodie or just fish a little faster.

Emu River:

I started trout fishing in the Emu and somehow, has always been productive.

I generally fish the mouth and at the bottom of the spillway were the water runs fast and it is deep. You can also fish the upper regions of the Emu and it is nice and easy to get to if you fish along the banks at Fern Glade.

It is great fly fishing in the shallows and is even better if you have a pair of waiders, but I perfer the soft plastics. I use a 1/20 jighead upstream and a 1/16 jighead at the spillway and the mouth. For coulor and profile I use a tiny pumkinseed curly tail grub or a berkley olive green or black and gold minnow.

Hard bodies work good in both shallow and deep water up the Emu as long as you tie a uni knot, this makes the luke swim straightly and not off to one side.

The Emu also fishes well with a good old scrub worm or grub. Look for a good deep hole were the water is running just a little so your bait can waft around in the current.

You may also need to use a small sinker as the water can really rip down through some of those corners when it has been raining.

Another warning, try not to catch a platypus because they can do some serious damage if you manage to hook one!

Blythe River:

The Blythe is another favourite and is renowend for big sea run trout. I generally fish the mouth under the bridge on the Bass Highway or on the mud flats on the western side of the river.

You can often see sea runners tailing on the surface close to the shore feeding on whitebait, bugs and insects and it is great to sneak a cast right next to the feeding fish.

For the mouth I use a Squidgie Gary Glitter or Siver Fox and you could also use a Gulp Sandworm in camo or new penny but generally cocky salmon, toadfish and mullet will take them.

When you fish right up the top of the river I use the same as I would fishing upstream in the Cam, Flick Baits and Yep soft plastics.

You need to fish it fast in the upper reaches of the Blythe because of the water that rushes down quiet quickly. The trout upstream often hide in little inlets and rocky structures out of the strong currents so to get down to the fish in the deep you can also use a 1/8 jighead to drag it along the bottom.

It can be difficult landing big trout on light line up the Blythe so it pays to take a landing net with you, I prefer the new fish friendly Enviro Net because the light mesh protects the trouts protective layer of slime and the hook doesn’t get tangled up in the mesh.

Pet Dam:

Most people that fish at the Pet Dam will generally use bait or Ashley Spinners, Tassie devils and occasionally a wet or dry fly.

It takes a lot of patience fishing with lures or soft plastics because of the distance you must walk and the snags you have to evade.

I find the best lure is the one which has the most movement, like a spinner or cobra lure. Bibbed lures also work well but get snagged often and are hard to retrieve because of multiple treble hooks which often get lodged deep within the snag.

Small poppers also work on those small rainbows if you manage to find a few schooled up on the shallows.

A nice looking run in the Cam River.

Fishing News - Page 32

Soft plastics are great for fishing close to shore or in deep holes, I perfer to use a 1/16 jig head with a white curly tail grub or a green olive Berkley Bass Minnow.

Take note on the size of your jighead as the heavier it is the more likely you are to become snagged.

Be mindful that there is not much feed in the Pet so the rainbows that were stocked in December last year will grab at the first chance they get.

If you are just looking for a quiet day out, get some big scrub worms or some Powerbait and soak them in a deep hole.

When I bait fish I will have one line with a worm on it and another with a Powerbait, this way I can determine what the fish like more.

Guide Dam:

The Guide dam is another good place to fish but is hard and difficult to fish from if you don’t have waders or gumboots as there is dence scrub and marshes. Never the less there are some cracking fish in the dam, and most of the big ones can be seen tailing early in the morning and late at night. I find that when fishing in the shallows it is best to use an asley spinner or tassie devil and in the deeper water you can use soft plasics.

In the deeper water I use a 1/16 or 1/8 jighead with a green olive Yep soft plastic or a Squidgie neon paddle tail.

In the early days of the season I would also give a Gulp Turtleback worm in pumkinseed or a 3 inch fry in pumkinseed or green pumpkin.

Map courtey Tasmap.

The author’s home in Burnie is never far from some good trout fishing.

This little brown trout found a Squidgy to his liking.

You generally catch browns in the Guide but there is also some good rainbows in there to. I would try the small creek that runs into the dam for the rainbows and I would use 1/20 jighead with a Squidgie killer tomato in paddle tail or curly tail were the water is shallow and there are plenty of snags.

Conclusion:

Overall the North West Coast of Tassie has some great freshwater fishing spots, and most of the mentioned spots are close to Burnie and require little effort to have a great day's fishing without to much expense. The days are getting longer and warmer, so get out there.

Daniel Paull

Squidgy Pro-Range Winner of the Port Macquarie ABT Bream Classic.

Check out the Squidgy Pro Range at good tackle stores.

Fishing News - Page 33

“The reality is quite to the contrary, we are planning to better develop camp grounds in appropriate areas that best cater for campers,” Mr Bidwell said.

Hydro Tasmania has commended the work of volunteers who recently cleaned up the campsites at Bronte Lagoon and Brady’s Lake in preparation for the opening of the trout season.

Fly Fish Australia Inc (FFA) Tas Fly Fishing Championships 2008/2009

Bronte fly fishing school

The Devonport Fly Fishing Club (Inc) will once again be holding their annual Fly Fishing School at Bronte Lagoon in the Central Highlands from the 4th to the 9th of January 2009.

This long running school has developed greatly since the club took over it’s running from the Department of Sport and Recreation some fifteen years ago and it is now acknowledged as a forum for the beginner or total novice to grow in stature as a flyfisher with its air of casual intensity.

Students are well supported with the club supplying experienced instructors to guide them through the rigours that sometimes beset the angler as he or she starts out flyfishing.

At a cost of $100 per student for the five day course it is well within the reach of the family man, with many students choosing to turn it into a family holiday. Students who undertake the course will be required to supply all their own angling gear and if choosing to camp on the site will need to be self sufficient. Th club will supply two porta loos and showers are available at the nearby Bronte Park Highland Village.

The club actively promotes women anglers attending the course and also junior anglers provided they are under adult supervision.

Some of the topics covered by the course include First aid, Entomology, Casting Techniques, Reading Lakes and Streams, Fly Construction, Polaroiding and Water Safety etc.

Once again the school will cater for those people returning as a second year student with a separate

syllabus which will enable them to take that next step and follow on from the previous years learning. Second year students will have a $75 fee as opposed to the first year fee of $100.

For further information or to enrol contact: David Best 6424 6628 Peter Burr 6424 8287 (AH)

Hydro Tas develops camp strategy

Over the past year Hydro Tasmania has been developing a camping strategy for the Upper Derwent region covering camp sites at Tungatinah, Brady’s lake and Lake Binney.

Hydro Tasmania Land Management Officer, Mike Bidwell said this strategy has been developed in conjunction with the Inland Fisheries Service, Angling Alliance Tasmania, the Central Highlands Council and Trout Guides and Lodges Tasmania.

“The aim of the strategy is to assess the current camping grounds and identify future requirements for camping in the area,” Mr Bidwell said.

“We also plan to initiate a collaborative approach to the management of issues such as vandalism and we urge the local community and fishing groups to participate in reducing these very dangerous activities which have a significant impact on the community by reporting any offences to local authorities.

“By working together we can ensure safe and wellmaintained campsite for all users.”

There has been some concern within the angling community that Hydro Tasmania plans to close the camp grounds around the lakes.

The State Fly Fishing Championships are to be held on the 25th/26th October 2008 for the Lakes Championships(Round 1) on Penstock Lagoon and Little Pine.

The River Championships(Round 2) will be held on the 7th/8th February 2009 on northern rivers around Launceston.

Competitors can fish in both or either rounds of the Championship.FFA members will be seeking to qualify for the 2009 National Championships.The State championship is open to all anglers.

Entry forms are available from the Sage fly rod specialists,Essential Fly Fisher,105 York St,Launceston and at www.flyfishaustralia.com.au.

Entries close on the 10th October 2008 and remain open for the River Championships until 23rd January 2009.While numbers are limited, entries are also open to non FFA members.Novice and younger anglers in particular are encouraged to enter.

FFA promotes competitive sports fly fishing with three Tasmanians recently selected in the Australian Team for the World Fly Fishing Championships in Scotland near Edinburgh in June 2009.Tasmanian members of the 6 man team include Joe Riley of Longford,John Donnachy of Windermere and Mark Youngman of Newstead.

In the Oceania Team to compete against New Zealand in March 2009 based at Rotorua are Tasmanians Craig Carey of Longford,Jim Davis and Brian McCullagh of Hobart.

If you want to fast track your fly fishing skills and fish with experienced anglers entering the state championships is a great way to start and have some fishing fun..

Call Mark Youngman on 0419 177706 or Stuart Peel on 62479117 for further information.

Extraordinary value for trout, bream, estuary and bay anglers $14,500 with 30hp Mercury (Lite)

Fishing News - Page 34

Powerbait Hollow Belly

The next big thing in softbait fishing Natural feel, fluid action and a sexy roll. Berkley Powerbait Hollowbelly’s are the next big thing in softbait fishing! Clear coat magnifies the natural finish, realistic 3D eyes, soft texture mimics the feel of a live baitfish, oversized paddle tail generates unbelievable swimming action, even at the slowest of speeds, soft hollow body collapses for instant hookups. Can be rigged for weedless surface action with Nitro jungle hooks or conventionally with Nitro’s new Button jigs for deep water applications The great attribute of these baits is the lifelike look and the softness of the bait due to the hollow construction.

There are so many angling situations that these baits will cover from freshwater trout in impoundments , big flathead in estuaries, bass fishing, cod, barramundi in both deep and shallow situations, all the tropical critters that eat softies and many more.

When I began researching BLU EYE glasses I was impressed to learn that the lenses have an anti reflective coating on the inside and a Flash Mirror Hard Coating on the outside making the lenses shatterproof. They also have non slip rubber on the temples so they fit comfortably on your head and feel secure. There’s nothing worse than your sunnies dropping off your head into the drink when trying to net or release a fish. They also have a range for surfers and extreme sports like hang gliding wakeboarding or parasailing even for those on jet skis.

These are designed with a neoprene strap so they hold firmly but comfortably onto your head.

All styles come in different frame and lens colors so you can pick the frame style in the colour you want and the lens type you want. How convenient is that! The frames are made of TR90 Grilamide which is a super tough material.

They are available in Yellow, Rose, Amber and Grey lenses and retail for $139.95- $220.

I’ve been testing the yellow lens and on a cloudy overcast day or in low light such as dawn or dusk they are unreal at gathering light into the lens so you can still Polaroid the water even under these normally impossible conditions.The BLU EYE range of polarized glasses offer real value for money at this price. Check them out at your local tackle store. Review by Leroy Tirant.

These lures have a unique action and can be fished with most retrieve styles.

They can be straight jigged up and down, bounce jigged whilst drifting and cast and retrieved.

With 2 exceptionally sharp swinging forged hooks set up on kevlar connectors, hook up rates are increased.

Ockta lures are perfectly balanced as to allow the lure to pulsate the skirts giving the appearance of a swimming octopus Four great fish attracting colours with added glow in the dark features, holographic finish on lure head and glow live eyes Nine sizes from 20 – 300gm. Will cover all areas of saltwater fishing from bays to reef to deep sea applications Colours available – blue, firetiger, pink, red Sizes available – 20gm, 40gm, 60gm, 80gm, 100gm, 120gm, 150gm, 200gm, 300gm Retail from $8 - $20 Distributed by: J.M.Gillies agencies Pty. Ltd.

Maxima Treazure line

Blueye Chill

Blu-Eye polaroids

Blueye Eddy

Polarized sunglasses are as important to an angler as your rod and reel. Even on cloudy days they not only let you spot fish but protect your eyes from the harmful glare of the light reflecting off the water. There are many brands of polarized glasses out there priced from the very cheap to ludicrously expensive. Price unfortunately does not always determine quality, so how do you pick what’s best for your budget? Well at the very least the glasses should meet Australian standards and be optically correct in the lens or you may end up suffering a headache. Lens color is important also as people see differently through varying colored lenses. But as a general rule of thumb Amber or Bronze is one of the most popular choices for all water types with Rose being another top performer as it separates the color of the bottom in shallow water very well even in tannin stained water. Grey and blue lenses work ok but not for everybody. I find blue lenses in saltwater nearly useless for me as it blends in with the water to well. Another color gaining in popularity is yellow which is excellent in dull cloudy conditions or at first and last light as they gather light into the lens.

One of the things I also find is that you pay for what you get. I wear contact lenses whilst fishing so if the glasses I am wearing are not optically correct I inevitably get a headache.

Early this year I came across a new brand that was shown to me by Mark Mangold and Wayne Friebe, two of the guns of tournament angling in Australia. The brand is called BLU EYE and have just hit our shores. I received the first shipment last week and was impressed with all the styles and lens colors available and unlike many brands of polarized glasses they were quite fashionable which is important to a lot of people these days as they wear glasses through everyday life and not just whilst fishing.

Due for release in november 2008.

The latest addition to the maxima stable of quality monofilament fishing lines.

Maxima have created a truly unique monofilament called “treazure” Maxima “ Treazure” sets a new benchmark in abrasion resistance, breaking strain and sesitivity due to its revolutionary blend of high grade copolyamides, micro extrusion technology and the unique ‘adp’ process (additive depot protection).

Most monofilament fishing lines on the market today provide abrasion resistance wth a hard surface coating.

Once this coating has been nicked or scuffed the line underneath has little or no protection.

The manufacturing process involved in making “Treazure” ensures that the abrasion resistant quality is incorporated throughout the structure of the line, thereby retaining its breaking strain even when the surface becomes damaged.

Maxima claim “treazure” has up to 8 times the abrasion resistance of standard monofilament lines.

“Treazure” also boasts excellent knot strength, fine diameter, low stretch and has virtually no memory.

“Treazure” is available in clear in breaking strains fom 4lb. To 35lb. In 300m one shot spools.

‘Treazure’ – the future generation of lines.

Gillies Ockta lures

New from J.M.Gillies is the exciting range of “Ockta” lures. Incorporating innovative japanese design and technology.

The Ockta lure is effective in attracting reef and bottom dwellers as well as pelagic species.

Fishing News - Page 35

Shimano Twin Power Fc Reel

Shimano has always had a no compromise philosophy when it comes to producing what many believe to be the world’s finest angling equipment – pick up a new Shimano TwinPower FC and you will instantly be able to see and feel why.

Building from the phenomenal success of the FB series, the new TwinPower FC boasts many features expected to be found on a reel at double the price. Lightweight waterproof aluminium frame, waterproof drag system, double anodised cold-forged spool, ARC/Propulsion system, one-piece SR bail system, Power Roller, Super Stopper II and SR Concept just to name a few.

Additionally, two new sizes have been incorporated into the line-up - a 5000 model to fill the gap between the 4000 and 6000 sizes for anglers looking for a lighter weight reel with increased capacity, and, a larger 10000 size which is predicted to prove very popular with anglers who want to high-speed spin, jig or throw poppers to a variety of species with braided lines. The new reels can hold 174 and 457 metres of 5kg nylon monofilament respectively.

Every model comes standard with 7 shielded anti-rust bearings, plus one roller bearing, spare aluminium spool and Shimano’s legendary 10 year warranty.

caster in his own right. In the 1980s Tims’ achievements included winning the World Single Handed Distance Gold Medal with a cast of 205 feet (62.48 metres) in 1984.

Steve retired from competition casting in 1985, but has continued as a devoted caster and fisherman since that time. Through Echo Rods, Tim has developed a full range of single and double handed fly rods, an of course, the Micro Practice Rod. I came across the Micro Practice Rod at the recent Fly Fishing Conclave at Peter Hayes’ in Cressy. Peter was really exited about it, and it was used long and hard down the hallway by many in attendance, into the wee small hours of the morning.

The kit consists of a 1.2 metre, 2 piece, graphite rod with integrated hypalon grip (and no reel seat). The line is a thick, yellow cord of around 5 metres. On the end of this is a red yarn leader of 1.5 metres. The rod can cast the leader alone, or any length of the line, up to the full amount (this takes some skill), in an indoor environment.

The kit really rewards a good casting stroke, especially the smooth loading and acceleration of the casting stroke and STOP at the end. The rod telegraphs open, low power, slow loops, tailing loops, shockwaves, and all the other.

A bonus feature of the MPR is the friction of the leader on carpet. Unlike casting a regular rod and line on grass, it allows realistic roll casting practice.

Fun for the whole family? I took a MPR down to my close fishing mate Troy. After a few casts his kids, Kel (10), and Abby (8) took over. For the best part of a whole day they cast and cast. Troy barely got a look in! Before too long the kids were casting smooth, tight loops, and having a ball. Even Troy’s wife, Alenka, got into the action.

At the end of the day, the name of the game is to have the most enjoyable time fishing. Being a better caster can definitely help that to a large degree. In these days of rising fuel prices, it can be argued it’s even more important to make the most of every fishing trip.

Echo Micro Practice Rod is available in Australia from Hayes Flyfishing: www.flyfishtasmania.com.au

• S A-RB Bearings (Shielded A-RB) • Double Anodised Cold Forged Spool • Power Roller • Aero Wrap II • Machined Aluminium Handle Shank • Super Stopper II • Floating Shaft • Dyna-Balance • Fluidrive II • Aluminium Frame • ARC Spool

Spiderwire EZ braid - EZ casting, strong & thin.

Unmatched value in a high tech super line.

• Dyneema micro fibres • Supersmooth for long, effortless casts • Spider sensivity - near zero stretch to feel everything

Spiderwire Stealth Camo Braid

What is it about late night TV advertising. You know the story - “Makes exercise fun”, “get six pack abs without trying in ten minutes”. Makes you sick, doesn’t it... OK. My turn. Try the Echo Micro Practice Rod (MPR). Makes fly casting practice fun! Hours of entertainment for the whole family! From a prematurely cynical grumpy man like me, that’s a bold claim. Well, I’ve seen it before my own eyes.

The Echo Micro Practice Rod is a kit for practicing fly casting loop control, developed by Tim Rajeff. Many people have heard of the Rajeff name connected with Tournament Fly Casting in Steve Rajeff. Steve has been World Fly Casting Champion no less than 13 times, and has won the American Casting Association Championships 34 years in a row. Well, brother Tim is an outstanding Fishing News - Page 36

Deliberately overbuilt to give you the strength advantage.

Deliberately overbuilt to give you the strength advantage.

All X-cräftic alloy construction, HPCR® bearings, Carbon Matrix™ drag and stainless steel components. Functionally improved for smooth and consistent operation. Now with our exclusive SuperLine spool system.

FEATURES • SuperLine and Mono Aluminum Spools Included • X-Cräftic™ Alloy, Body, Body Cover, Rotor and Bail Arm for Corrosion Resistance • 11 HPCR™ Bearings (with Instant Anti-Reverse) for Corrosion Resistance • Sealed Carbon Matrix™ Drag System for Ultra Smooth Drag • Dual Bearing Supported Spool for Long Life • Stainless Steel Main Shaft and Hardware for Corrosion Resistance • Duragear™ Gears for Long Life • Everlast™ Bail System for Durability Deliberately overbuilt to give you the strength advantage. All X-Cräftic Aluminum construction, HPCR® bearings, Carbon Matrix drag and stainless steel components. Functionally improved for smooth and consistent operation. Now with our exclusive SuperLine spool system which eliminates the need for backing or tape.

Vision Stealth Amphibia wading boots

Spiderwire EZ Braid

Echo Micro Practice Rod

ABU Soron

Camo coloration blends in with underwater vegetation and environment. Same trusted Spider Strength, mono manageability.

• Unique camo pattern • PE Microfibre construction is strong, smooth and round • Teflon Pressure treated - Shoots through guides like a bullet • Whisper quiet for stealth attacks • Resist ‘digging in’ on reel

Spiderwire Stealth Code Red

The smooth round red braid with spider strength, mono Manageability.

• PE Microfibre construction is strong, smooth and round • Teflon Pressure treated - Shoots through guides like a bullet • Whisper quiet for stealth attacks • Resist ‘digging in’ on reel

Stealth Amphibia® replaces and improves upon rubber and felt sole technology.

Amphibia’s high friction proper ties outper form other sole materials with significantly better traction on wet rock, slippery mud and moss, and on hidden algae-covered rocks. Stealth Amphibia® rubber also provides traction on land and in water, giving the freedom to wear the same pair of boots all day. The rubber provides the advantage of a quick-cleaning sole from which dirt easily washes away. This is especially important for river eco-systems that suffer from fishermen’s felt soles housing bacteria and spreading it from one stream to the next. Stealth Amphibia® rubber also lasts up to 50% longer than ordinary felt!

Vision Flywater Waders

The new Flywater waders are the most advanced value waders on the market. They are Vision’s European best seller. Made from durable F3wader™ fabric with a NoSeam™ leg cut. 5- layer fabric down from the knee.

Waterproofing 20 000 mm.

Breathing ability 14 000 g./ m2/24h. 3 layer upper and 5 layer knee F3wader™ fabric. Built-in gravel guards with elastic fitting around boot collar. Easily worn at waist height Internal mesh pocket with zipper closure. 3.5 mm. neoprene stockings Adjustable belt.

Available from good tackle stores for around $220.

the shoe features a one-piece moulded EVA construction, a slip resistant non-marking sole and weighs next to nothing. An enclosed back and rear sides offer support as well as a Velcro tension to make sure it doesn’t come off when you need it the most!

The shoe comes in men’s 8-13 sizes in grey and khaki colours. Whether you plan to wade sandy flats, rubble-bottom rivers or need some protection on slippery boat decks, these shoes are sure to deliver the all the functionality you could ever need.

Gillies Wildfish series fly reels

New release – December 2008 Gillies Wildfish series fly reels are made to exacting specifications for the discerning fly angler.

Features: • Machined from high grade aluminium • Wide mid arbour construction • Black anodised finish • One way ‘origin’ needle bearing • Smooth 3 pin double clutch cork disc drag • Easy right to left hand conversion • Stainless centre shaft • Quick release spool • Spare spools available • Available in 3 sizes.

Models: 1 - 3/4wt; 2 - 5/6wt, 3 - 7/8wt.

Retail: between $120 - $140.

Snowbee XS Die-Cast Cartridge Fly Reels:

460, 780, 1112 XSD Cartridge Fly Reel System Built to the same exacting standards as the CNC machined XS reel, the new XSD offers the same, outstanding XS drag system, but now in a lightweight low-cost Die-Cast body.

There are already many budget priced die-cast reels on the market, but most of them rely on poor quality, inadequate offset drag systems. The new Snowbee XSD breaks the mould and quite simply, there is no other reel on the market of this quality, at this price, with a drag system of this performance

XSD460 This new model sits part way between the XS340 & XS560 for size. Designed to take lines between #4 & #6 wt, it will appeal to both the river fisher and the small stillwater angler.

The new XSD460 comes with a spare cartridge spool and additional spools are readily available.

World class fishing in the heart of the central highlands

Speci al to sta offer r Fishin t the g Sea son

Stay in a luxury art deco 3 bedroom cottage Atmospheric Highlander Arms tavern on the doorstep 3 course meal provided each night 2 hours fly fishing tuition included per day Catch your own salmon in Tarraleah lake and learn how to prepare it with expert chef 18 lakes within 30 minutes drive

$165

(03) 6289 0111 per person per night.

( Min 2 persons).

Offer applies August and September only

info @tarraleah.com www.tarraleah.com

Chota Kayak Boots

This 3mm closed-cell neoprene boot keeps you warm and dry up to the knee. The tripleglued and blind stitched seams are watertight and comfortable. The skin-out neoprene gasket coupled with a nylon cinch strap keeps the top comfortably in place just below the knee cosy wood fires wine & whisky tasting guided fishing trips great pub and retards flooding. The 3mm vulcanized rubber sole with protective midsole provides traction, while the vulcanized rubber toe cap and heel counter provide additional Tasmanian Fishing and Boating News is pleased to provide this calendar of events for the year 2008. Events and dates are correct, protection. Sized extra roomy for to the best of the editor’s knowledge, at the time of printing but are always subject to amendment or cancellation. use with thick socks, yet the flexible, Date Event & Venue More Info low profile design is perfect for OCTOBER confined kayak cockpits. RRP around $190.

Sat 4 Rainbow trout season open Inland Fisheries Service 6261 8050

Fishing and Boating Calendar

Recreational whitebait season open

Inland Fisheries Service 6261 8050

Sat 8 & 9

Tasmanian Boating and Leisure show - Lindisfarne

Ian Kennett 0418 139398

Sat 15

Take a Kid Fishing, Beauty Point Wharf 12noon til 4.00pm

Quenton Higgs 0407 502046

Sun 16

Inland Fisheries free fishing day – call IFS for nearest venue

Inland Fisheries Service 6261 8050

Sun 30

Take a Kid Fishing, CSIRO Wharf, Hobart 10am - 2pm

Tess McNeill 0417 355652

Mon 4-9

Annual Bronte Fly Fishing School. D’Port Fly Fishing Club

Peter Burr 03 6424 8287

Sat 10

Take a Kid Fishing, St Helens Wharf 10am - 2pm

Quenton Higgs 0407 502046

Wed 21 - Mon 26 Lake Peddar Fishing Competition - Raising funds for Camp Quality

Laurie Harrison 0412 906299

Wed 1 – Nov 11 NOVEMBER

Evair Shoe

Following on from the success of the Evair Sandal, Shimano thought it would be appropriate to offer a new style of footwear that had the stability and practicality of a shoe but could still provide excellent comfor t, drainage and was friendly to water like a sandal!

From this vision the Evair Shoe was born – not quite a sandal and not quite a shoe! Just like the extremely practical Evair Sandal,

JANUARY

FEBRUARY Sun 8

Take a Kid Fishing, Hobart Regatta Ground Wharf 10am - 2pm

Tess McNeill 0417 355652

Sat 28 Sun 1

Australian Bream Tournament Super Series - Nat. Qualifier St Helens

Steve Morgan 07 3387 0888

Fri 6 - Sun 8

Australian Bream Tournament Super Series - Nat. Qualifier Derwent

Steve Morgan 07 3387 0888

Sun 15

Take a Kid Fishing, Stanley Wharf 10am - 2pm

Damian Heran 0408 337 317

MARCH

Fishing News - Page 37

Inaugural tasfish.com Brushy Lagoon Fishing Competition 25 October 2008

Storm ThunderBlade

The ThunderBlade shimmy, shimmy vibration displays a flash-and-dance excitement that accentuates the “gotta eat it” baitfish profile.

Jig the ThunderBlade and it creates a frenzy of vibration and flash, taunting fish to strike, or, cast it out and reel it with a fast retrieve, to imitate a baitfish rushing through the water.

The ThunderBlade is 4 inches long, weighs 1 oz. and features red VMC® Barbarian® hooks for ultimate fish holding power, available in 6 outrageous metallic and holographic patterns.

Factor in the expelling shockwave of vibration produced on the retrieve, and fish will be darting in at thunder smack-attack mode to get a taste of the action.

The ThunderBlade is 4 inches long, weighs 1 oz. and features red VMC® Barbarian® hooks for ultimate fish holding power, available in 6 outrageous metallic and holographic patterns.

On Saturday 25 October the inaugural Brushy Lagoon Fishing Competition will be held. This event is to raise money to develop and improve Brushy Lagoon as a recreational area.

The competition starts at 10 am with a 3 pm finish followed by a weigh-in. The weigh-in station will be at the dam wall boat ramp and Fishcare volunteers will be there.

A free sausage sizzle and soft drinks will be provided at the prize presentation at 3.30 pm.

Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd in Senior and Junior categories, lucky draws, family prizes and competitor prizes are all on offer.

A $5 entry fee per angler or $10 for the family is all

that is required for entry to the competition. Registration forms are available from both boat ramps on the day from 8.30 am All proceeds of entry fees go towards the future development of Brushy Lagoon as a recreational area.

This event is proudly supported by the Inland Fisheries Service, Anglers Alliance Tasmania, Forestry Tasmania, Westbury Fishing Club, Devonport Anglers Club, Longford Fishing Club, Tasmanian Fishing and Boating News and Tasfish.com For more information contact: Longford Fishing Club, Todd Lambert 0427 888 691 Devonport Anglers Club, Peter Maloney 0419 871 131 Westbury Fishing Club, David Rybarczyk 0400 929 174

Test drive a Bar Crusher in Hobart

Lindisfarne Boating, Leisure & Water Sports Expo 8th - 9th November 2008 Motor Yacht Club of Tasmania 530C

560C

Bar Crusher 530C

SuzukiDF90EFI4Stroke Digital Gauges Kill Tank Live Bait Tank Rocket Launcher

Trim Tabs Rod Holders Bait Board Nav Lights Bilge Pump Twin Batteries

StepThroughTransom Dive/Swim Ladder FoldingGasStrutRoof with Clears EasyTowBrakedTrailer

620C

Barcrusher 560C

Bait Board StepThroughTransom Nav Lights Dive/Swim Ladder Suzuki DF140 EFI 4 Stroke Bilge Pump FoldingGasStrutRoofwith Kill Tank Twin Batteries clears Live Bait Tank SkiPole,VHFRadio Easytowtandembraked Rocket Launcher 150L Fuel Tank Trailer Trim Tabs HydraulicSteering Rod Holders

Bar Crusher 620C

•SuzukiDF1754stroke•Tandemtrailerwithmeshwalkway,alloywheels, bearingbuddies,andalloysparewheel•OutRiggers•LowranceColourSounder/ Chartplotter7”screenandnavionicscard•VHFRadio•27MhzRadio•DeckWash •Fronttravelprotectioncover•Sidedropsheetprotection•Rocketlauncher•Live baittankplumbed•Largekilltank•Frontbunkswithcushions•FoldingGasStrut roofwithsideclears•BaitBoard•Rubbertubemattingonfloor•17RodHolders.

640HT

Estuary,LakeorOffshore We’ve got a boat for you

Barcrusher 640 Hard Top Bait Board 2 x DF140EFI 4 Stroke Suzukis 300L Fuel Tank Lowrance Sounder/GPS Kill Tank Live Bait Tank Rocket Launcher Trim Tabs Rod Holders Fishing News - Page 38

Nav Lights Bilge Pump StepThroughTransom Dive/Swim Ladder Deck Wash Twin Batteries Ski Pole

VHF Radio Lock Up Cabin Titanium Pearl Paint Anchor Light Hydraulic Steering 27mhz Radio EasyTowtandembrakedtrailer with4wheeldiscsandalloywheels

Bass Highway, Somerset, Burnie, TAS 7320 Phone: 64 352 200 Email: anthony@coastal-marine.com.au

Jan’s Flies Jan Spencer

Towards the end of September there was some great fishing to tailing trout. Apart from rising trout, tailers can be very exciting, as well as being difficult to catch.

When fish move into the shallows they will almost certainly be food hunting as shallow water can be life threatening. Trout will feed hard at these times, watch the twisting of the body and if they have their head down the flickering of the tail are all tell tale signs of them feeding intently.

Early in the season crustacea or as they are sometimes referred to, scud are high on the trout’s diet. Because these small aquatic beings are slow moving and crawl the trout have their heads down and tails out and really forage for these little morsels. At this time of year water levels will usually be up in the grasses. The only way fish will get the scud to move is to nose about in the grass.

There are many fly patterns I have seen to represent the natural all with the ability to catch fish, it all goes back to having faith in the fly being used. Over the years there have been three flies which have reasonably successful for me.

These flies are a very small olive green Woolly Bugger, a Nymbeet and my own pattern of a scud, all have had success in their own right.

To fish these patterns I find it essential not to cast straight at the fish, fish off to one side a little. When you think the fish is close enough, give the line a short twitch to get the trout’s attention. Hopefully the quarry will respond this and a hook up will be achieved.

Most fly tyers will know a Woolly Bugger pattern to use, just keep it small (size 12 is good).

Nymbeet

Hook Wet fly hook size 10-12 down eye Thread Black Tail Black cock hackle fibres Wingcase A strip of crow’s wing fibres Body Black marabou silk and a strip from a clear plastic pot cleaner (a strand of well weather gut will do the job) Hackle Black cock hackle 1. Take thread full length of shank and tie in small bunch of cock fibres for tail, these should be the length of the hook shank.

2. Tie in a strip of crow’s wing and a strip of clear pot scrubber or gut line, now a small length of black marabou silk.

3. Bring thread forward to just behind the eye, now wind marabou neatly forward to thread, tie down firmly and cut excess away.

4. Wind the pot scrubber or gut line over the marabou body finishing at the thread, cut away excess body material.

5. Pull crow’s wing over the top toward the eye forming a wing case, tie down with thread, and cut away any excess crow fibres.

6. Take a small cock hackle, tie in and make two turns, tie down and cut excess away. Finish with a well formed head, whip finish, cut away thread and varnish.

Green Scud

Hook Scud or shrimp hook – size 10-12 Thread Black Tail Grizzle marabou fibres (olive green) Back Clear elastic (obtainable from a sewing centre) Rib Fine copper wire Body Olive green seal’s fur Antenna Grizzle marabou fibres (olive green) 1. Take thread at least half way around the bend of the hook, take a small bunch of green marabou fibres and tie in as tail.

2. Tie in rib and then a small strip of clear elastic for back.

3. With olive green seal’s fur dubbed on thread bring forward to just behind the eye. As the seal’s fur is brought forward, shape a scud body.

4. Pull elastic over the top of body, tying in with thread, cut away excess elastic. Now bring rib forward with nice even turns to thread, tie down and cut away excess rib.

5. For the antenna take a small bunch of green grizzle marabou and tie in over the hook eye, make sure the feather excess marabou, whip finish, cut away thread, varnish with a small drop on the head area.

This fly is the original tie of Stuart Napier and was highly used by flyfishers of that generation. Note the body, I have done this with the original flat pot scrubber which belonged to Dick Wigram.

Revolutionary NEW Flyline Inspired by nature, 3M™ Sharkskin™ Fly Line feels and sounds like nothing else on the market. It is composed of microreplicated structures that reduce friction, improve floatation, boost durability, eliminate line glare and repel water.

The result is nothing less than a revolution in fly line design.

• Reduced friction through rod guides produces superior shootability • Microtextured coating increases surface area and repellency and forces the line to sit higher on the water • Synergy between line texture and patented AST chemistry strengthens the coating integrity and durability • Radical textured surface creates a stealth effect, dispersing light and reduces the chance of spooking fish • Improved water shedding makes for effortless roll casting, mending and pickups.

WF 3 F to WF 8 F Ultimate Trout Taper - features long front taper.

Check all the specs @ www.scientificanglers.com

Contact 03 9899 0034 for your closest Sharkskin stockist.

Fishing News - Page 39

Drought Proofing Tasmania

Whose water is this?

The first of eleven irrigation schemes to be introduced by the Government is now available for comment and all conservationists should be aware of these plans and consider their potentially serious effect on life as we know it in Tasmania.

Two very important points need to be remembered when reaching a view on this Government initiative; firstly the farming and irrigation communities have an unalienable right to a fair share of the State’s water resources but certainly not to the exclusion of others with equal rights but alternative views.

Secondly this discussion is about the environment and the ecology therein and not fish. If water conditions and environmental flows are OK so then are the fish but anglers basically derive their leisure and life style from the environment and all that it contains. It is incumbent on us to do all that we can to leave Tasmania’s unique environment in a sustainable condition for those who follow. Less than this would be an abrogation of our community responsibility.

The so called Midlands “Water” Scheme concerns irrigation alone and raises many points and Anglers Alliance (AAT) believe that these should be considered by all Tasmania’s 30,000 angling environmentalists: • The midlands scheme was always to be centred on water taken from the Poatina tail race and not Arthurs Lake. Expect to see Brumbys Creek permanently flow below the levels experienced over recent times.

• How can private interests take over water that belongs to all Tasmanians? This appears to be the plan with the Macquarie Settlement Scheme taking water from the Poatina.

• The Shannon scheme was always to be temporary until a dam was built at Stone Hut above the Marlborough Road Bridge. If and when this comes do the “private proponents” retain their privileges?

• Increased farm production could well be measured by guessed increases in farm gate dollars but so too can angling.

Visitors who fished in Tasmania last year put some $60 million into the economy and local anglers spent an additional $50 million.

• What happens to the uncapped water rights enjoyed by a few down the Lake and Ouse Rivers over many years?

Are these cancelled if water from Arthurs is used for further irrigation purposes?

• The plan considers in flows of Arthurs to be 100 ml in good years and 50 ml in times of low rainfall. Over what

period of time are these figures taken and surely given the changed conditions since 2002 then the averages should only be considered over this period.

• We are sure that Arthurs has not had its minimum flow this year and what allowance has been made for evaporation which could be equal to the amount irrigators wish to drain from it.

• Rainfall estimates have left much to be desired through changing weather patterns. Bass link was supposed to be a net exporter of power not importer as it has become.

• Arthurs was originally two lakes, Blue and Sand and the Sand Lake is approximately a metre higher than the Blue.

Pumping water from either could well see the Sand Lake disappear. Hydro Tasmania is already considering an access road between the Sand and Blue Lakes and believe that Arthurs may never be full again.

• The Irrigation Development Board consists almost exclusively of people with an interest in farming. There are no directors representing the environment or Hydrology.

• The Irrigation board has already declared that as schemes are developed then their management will pass to the irrigators privy to our water.

• The Interlaken Lakes Sorell and Crescent and the Clyde River were irrigation user managed so need we say more? It is possible that over the next two years Crescent will cease to exist so what hope Arthurs, Tasmania’s prime fishing water?

• Interesting to read “Water Facts” for the midlands scheme which is available on www.dpiw.tas.gov.au/irrigation Arthurs Lake is not mentioned only very wooly figures about Tasmania as a whole.

• We note that the planned pipe line from Arthurs travels through Lake Sorell so what is the real plan here?

• It can be seen from the proposed plan that there are three new power stations. It is said that the water used for irrigation is the water normally transferred from Arthurs to Great Lake. Presumably the three new stations will make up the power that would have been generated through Poatina.

Question is can we trust that in further years of drought water will not be pumped both ways • This is a $74 million programme with a one month consultation, is this sufficient?

• Perhaps the time line question can be answered by Transend increasing their pump Station area at Arthurs and also the two massive holding lakes recently constructed on private land on the back road to Cressy close to the Midlands Highway=y Macquarie Bridge. Are the public being taken foe fool’s here? Interesting to note that you are directed to Service Tasmania for full information packs but these are only available in the Midlands!

• It is clear from news reports that the farming community and Government have no plan at all other than to change our water flows Statewide. We hear talk of “possible” crops of peanuts, pines and wasabi but that farmers can make up their own minds. What sort of planning is that?

These are but a few of the questions that should be asked by the Tasmanian community and AAT believe that this is hardly possible within a month’s time frame.

AAT does not say that the Midlands Scheme is necessarily all bad or indeed are the other ten plans which are in the pipeline, they may well provide advantages.

However what we do say is that Tasmania is more than irrigation and farming and that the whole community deserves wider opportunities for consultation and greater information easily accessed and simply explained.

We urge your participation and suggest that you direct your enquiries for further information to 6233-8552 or Midlands.

Enquiries@dpiw.tas.gov.au

You have but one chance for input and fairer consideration from government

Because the Australian Fishing Trade Association show in mid August always provides huge exposure for innovative new tackle both Mike and I recognise it provides breaking news for the avid angler. It is a tough gig but someone’s gotta do it! With over seventy exhibitors at this years gathering, tackle shop owners from all corners of Australasia kept everyone busy chatting about all things fishing and importantly placing orders. There were plenty of hoarse throats after three days!

Shimano again had the biggest presence at the show displaying a huge array of new rod and reel combos including the award winning “best reel” with the Stella range. Featuring the culmination of years of research and Shimano’s latest in advanced reel technology it certainly is the Rolls Royce of spinning reels. If you are really after high performance then the cost will not be an issue however Shimano also offer a broad selection of superbly engineered reels that will suit any budget.

Whilst there were literally dozens of new products one that was a really hot is the vehicle and boat rod holder from Rodlok.

The vehicle product features a magnetic pad that snaps onto the bonnet (don’t get your fingers in the way) and roof of your car. The holder simply snaps into the pad and just as easy to remove. Beautifully engineered in glass filled nylon Rodlok does away with the traditional rocket launcher, dangerous, and now illegal. Rodlok for boat mounting is similar in design and made from the same material, a top product.

Doing the rounds of Launceston shops this week, I was delighted that much of this new gear is appearing on the shelves already. Here are the major award winners, gear and well worth adding to your tackle:

Ally Craft Shadow Vision

• Length 3.95m • 1.90m beam • 0.80m deep • 172kg • 15hp to 30hp • 2.0mm bottom • 1.6mm sides • 4 people

In stock now 3.95 metre Shadow Vision

www.captainmarine.com.au Fishing News - Page 40

Tough gig on the Gold Coast

24 Gleadow St Launceston Ph 6334 3118

Best of AWARDS for 2008 Best Rod: Mayfly Nitro Vapour Series Best Reel: Shimano Stella SW Best Terminal Tackle: Hyper Tackle SASAME 9/0 Best Line: J.M. Gillies, WINDTAMER BRAID Best Soft Lure: Berkley, Power Bait Rattlin Shrimp Best Hard Lure: Halco, Night Walker BestTackle Management: J.M. Gillies Plano Guide Elite Series Best Boating Accessory and Electronics: Rodlok/ Alvey- Fishing Rod Holder Platinum Best Fishing Accessory: Bloop- Fish off Hand Wipes Best Kids Tackle: Jarvis Walker- Minnow Best Clothing Accessories: Columbia Sports wear- Blood & Guts Shirt Best Giftwear: Zen Imports- LED lenser P7 Flashlight FRDC Best Enviromentally Friendly: LittlefinsAustralian Zinc Sinker Tasmania’s local tackle shops have worked hard procuring a whole lot of new gear. Pay them a visit to check out the goodies!

Quenton Higgs

FLY TYING FUN!

A keen group of us attended Miena’s inaugural fly tying classes, which were held at the Community Centre during July and August. The main reason for attending was that famous local fly fisher Jan Spencer was the tutor. Jan provided approximately 20 hours of voluntary tuition spread over six sessions.

As “Beginner” and “Rusty” fly tyers, we were in awe of Jan’s skill. Each class involved learning to tie two different flies. Jan would demonstrate, and then we would have a go, often producing a result that left a lot to be desired! We were presented with a folder of basic information, and each week would receive relevant notes relating to the flies tied. We were also given a bag of fly tying materials such as fur, feathers, chenille, etc.

As well as learning about tying flies, we were privy to snippets of wisdom. For instance, Jan tries to keep her dry flies as light as possible, using only one peacock herl whereas other tyers can use two or more. Another interesting comment was the fact that she uses a new dry fly after catching each trout, believing that the presentation and floatation of a new fly is better. Husband Bill gets the used flies to fish with, but knows they come with a guarantee!

Lots of additional information emerged as Jan demonstrated a pattern. Personal anecdotes, quotes from favourite fishing books, and critical advice about materials kept us involved.

We were greatly impressed by Jan’s patience with us. Gung-ho bravado initially had us thinking fly tying would be easy; anyone could whack a few feathers and a bit of thread onto a hook! Ho-hum!

We very quickly realised that there was far more to the task!

The specialised equipment needed in the process took some getting used to! Attaching the vice to the wooden table board in a secure manner was the first hurdle, then to place the hook correctly into the vice jaws the next. Clamping the hook’s eye into the vice, then trying to wind the thread around past the barb proved how ignorant we were!

Other gadgets included a bobbin holder, hackle pliers, and THE WORLD’S WORST INVENTION, the WHIP FINISHING TOOL! I muttered aloud, “I bet this was invented by a man!” which brought a spirited response (from a male), “And a mighty fine invention it is too!” Plenty of laughs helped ease our inadequacies.

Another startling discovery was the fact that there exists so many styles of hooks! Short and long shanks, barbless, up-eye, curved! Then the variety of sizes for each type. Given that our average age was fifty, we really needed size 6/0! We could barely see a size 10 or 12! We were also amazed by how much could fit onto a hook. Thread, dubbing material, deer hair, a bead, peacock herls, hen hackles, chenille, and silk! Yet the correctly tied end product looked dainty, imitating perfectly the creature it represented.

Luckily, Jan had envisaged our ageing eyesight, and had on hand a few pairs of magnifying glasses.

They came in handy when we accidentally undid the vice jaws and the minute size 12 hook fell to the floor! Attaching pieces of feather to imitate wings also posed another dilemma. Were they to protrude over the hook eye, or should they slope back towards the bend? The low flying scorpion shape wasn’t quite right!

Now and then, something happened and the process worked smoothly. The sense of achievement to see deer hair spinning as it should and fanning out around the hook (when tying a Nobby Hopper) redeemed our clumsy errors.

One piece of equipment, which was simple to use, was the Hair Stacker/Leveller. Only could a fly fisherman have invented such an object. In went a clump of deer hair, then a few sharp taps of the cylinder onto the table top, and out came a neat

cluster, all ends level, making the hairs easier to tie into a fly.

Various materials could be used in opposite ways, somewhat confusing the learner.

For example, deer hair can be used to spin around the hook, but for a Shaving Brush fly this isn’t done. This earned the comment,”It’s not easy TO spin the deer hair, and it isn’t easy NOT to spin it!”

What impressed us most was the sheer skill and talent, which Jan possesses. Her knowledge of insect life cycles and of the natural materials she uses from animals and birds is amazing. Her enthusiastic passion is evident, and her flies are works of art.

She effortlessly and nimbly creates flies, which any Trout would be hard pressed to ignore!

We were privileged to have shared Jan’s expertise and sincerely thank her for the chance to learn a little more about fly fishing. Despite exasperated comments like, “I’m going to take up spinning!” and “Paying $2-50 for a ready made fly ISN’T a lot!” we thoroughly enjoyed these lessons.

Fly tying isn’t easy, but like any new task, the more it’s practised, the more confident we become.

At the final class, students presented Jan with a large white bib. This enabled us to see the fly materials more clearly as she tied, rather than peering blindly against her dark coloured clothing.

Fly-fishing and fly tying isn’t always a serious business. Causing great interest and humour was a fly called Sexy Legs. It is a dry fly, based on an English pattern and which Jan has Tasmaniafied.

The Editor of this fine magazine, Mike Stevens, gave it this title. As you can imagine, all kinds of fantasies emerged. The female fly tyers were especially interested. We gasped, “We’re going to tie hundreds of those! One day, out at Little Blue Lagoon, we’ll catch a trout on a Sexy Legs. Across the water will be a handsome, gorgeous, younger man, also fly fishing, and our eyes will meet. He’ll come over and ask, as fly fishermen do, “What fly did you catch that on?” Upon hearing the name Sexy Legs he’ll then ask, as fly fishermen do, “Can I see one of yours?” And because of what seems like a hundred and fifty years of marriage, approaching the age of sixty, and the sense, at times, of being taken for granted, we just might reply, “You can see both if you like!” And the male fly tyers in the group are waiting anxiously, hoping to be that man across the lake!

We thank Jan Spencer for all she has done to promote fly-fishing in the Central Highlands.

Liz Lang.

Miena (August 2008) P.S. I wrote a little poem as well and the Editor has said he will try and find some space to run it soon.

Inaugural VFFA Art Show The Victorian Fly Fishing Association‘s Inaugural Art Show was held at the Victorian Artists’ Society on the weekend July 25 – 27.

The official opening on the Friday evening, July 25, was well supported, with more than 100 guests attending, including VFFA members, artists and friends. The catering was

by Jean Jaques Lale-Demoz, who provided a selection of exquisite cheeses served with crusty bread, drinks and other refreshments.

Apart from his fine work in the kitchen, Jean Jaques is also skilled with the paint brushes.

Six of his paintings were on display.

On the Saturday ag ain over 100 people viewed the exhibition, with many complimentary remarks about the quality of works and display of the exhibition.

Julian Bruere, of the Victorian Artists’ Society, judged the show and spoke highly of the quality and mix of art works. The winner was Pieter Zaadstra's magnificent "Rise From The Weed Cover". Pieter is a highly talented artist, and deserves all the accolades.

Highly recommended certificates were awarded to Robert Maclaurin's etchings, and Ian Moule's acrylic on canvas: "Lesson Time".

In the sculpture category, an Honourable Mention was awarded to Tyrone Jaspers. His creativity captured many visitors’ imaginations with his sculptures of the "Klinkhamer" and "Royal Wulff". The hackle was made of wire

and the dubbing (rough and very realistic) from barbed wire.

Congratulations to all who contributed pieces of their work, and especially to the winners!

David Grisold, VFFA President, and Paul Squires, Art Show organizer, indicated that the VFFA will hold the exhibition again next year, at which time the scope of exhibits will be broadened. This will provide an opportunity for bamboo rod-makers, custom reel builders, handcrafted wooden fly box producers, and handcrafted landing nets to display their craftsmanship. The invitation is open to artists all over Australia, and contributors do not have to be members of the VFFA. The resounding success of this inaugural venture was due to the contributions of a number of people. Thanks especially to – Bill Classon and Trevor Hawkins of "Fly Fisher" Hamish Hughes and Rick Innes for advertising and layout work Richard Salvado, Rick Williams, Kris Peter and Colin Morrison for helping hang the exhibition Jean Jaques Lale-Demoz for catering John Pilkington for legal advice The artists who supplied a high quality body of work for the exhibition David Grisold and the VFFA Council for supporting the idea of The VFFA Art Show (It should noted that $12,000 in sales of art work was made over the weekend.)

Get Real Get RODLOK The RODLOK product range is innovative and technologically advanced, far beyond similar products currently available in the international market place.

RODLOK Bull Bar Mounted Rod Holder, Magnetic Bonnet, Platinum and GFN adjustable Boat Mounts.

If you want Quality ­ Innovation and Practicality then you want RODLOK products.

Available from good tackle stores and chandleries.

www.rodlok.com Fishing News - Page 41

Inland Fisheries News Lake Augusta Water Level Agreement

Over the last few weeks the water levels in Lake Augusta have been quite low and this has led to concerns about the inability of Hydro Tasmania to provide water for the rainbow trout spawning run. The Service been negotiating with Hydro Tasmania in relation to water storage and release issues to address the immediate spawning run requirements.

The need for a detailed and wide ranging water level agreement between IFS and Hydro Tasmania for Lake Augusta has been identified.

Eel Fishery

Piers and John Ranicar have recently transferred their commercial eel fishing licences to Pacificstream International Pty Ltd. This means the two north west licence areas and the lakes Leake and Tooms licence area.

Heavy Metals in Fish in the Derwent River

The Service is providing in-kind support for a Fishwise project application to further examine heavy metal in fish from the Derwent River. The project is in the current round for consideration.

IFS Freshwater Laboratory completed

A laboratory was completed at the IFS offices at New Norfolk costing $220K. The laboratory will be used for a range of biological analyses activities including freshwater invertebrate sorting/identification, fish ageing, general fish biologicals, microscopy and water quality analyses for the IFS hatchery. The laboratory is a much needed and welcomed facility that did not exist when the Service moved to New Norfolk.

Native Fish Conservation

• A funding application has been submitted to ”Caring for our Country” to continue critical native fish conservation efforts.

The application titled “Saving Tasmania’s Threatened Freshwater Fishes and their Critical Habitats from Climate Change” is for $205 000 and focuses on priority conservation actions for 6 species of fish. The plight of these species is considered critical given the trend in climatic conditions and associated pressures.

IFS Hatchery

• A platform to sit over the top of the fish tanks is presently being constructed. The platform is needed due to OH&S issues that have arisen due to the layout of the hatchery and the equipment being used. The platform will allow improved grading processes and better quality fish.

• The incubator room is also being improved by running it as a separate loop and cooling the incoming water suitable for incubation. This project is almost complete.

• The next phase of improvements is to develop cooling options for the greater hatchery.

GILLIES LURES

ALL NEW OCKTA New from J M Gillies is the exciting range of “Ockta” lures.

Incorporating innovative japanese design and technology the ockta lure is effective on reef and bottom dwellers as well as pelagic species.

These lures have a unique action and can be fished with most retrieve styles. They can be straight jigged up and down, bounce jigged whilst drifting and cast and retrieved.

Ockta lures are perfectly balanced as to allow the lure to pulsate the skirts giving the appearance of a swimming octopus With 2 exceptionally sharp swinging forged hooks set up on kevlar connectors, hook up rates are increased.

Four great fish attracting colours with added glow in the dark features, holographic finish on lure head and glow live eyes Nine sizes from 20 – 300 gm. Will cover all areas of saltwater fishing from bays to reef to deep sea applications Colours available – blue, firetiger, pink, red Sizes available – 20gm, 40gm, 60gm, 80gm, 100gm, 120gm, 150gm, 200gm, 300gm.

Distributed by J.M. Gillies.

Fishing News - Page 42

Acoustic Fish Tagging in the Derwent River

The Service is supporting a TAFI study of fish movement in the Derwent River. The study is primarily focussed on bream, flathead, seven-gilled shark and now the 19 trout have been tagged using VR2 transmitters. There is an array of receivers from Storm Bay to New Norfolk that will record when fish are in the vicinity.

Rainbow Trout Ova Collections

Rainbow trout ova collection is scheduled in the next two weeks from Liawenee Canal.

A portion will be triploided for stocking in specific waters as outlined in the Tasmanian Inland Recreational Fishery Management Plan. The ova will be retained at the IFS New Norfolk hatchery for incubating and rearing.

IFS Fish Stocking Report

Since the 10 April 2008 48 stocking events occurred (see opposite page for details).

The highlights were 50 000 20-25g rainbow trout into Great Lake with other significant stockings into Curries River Dam, Bradys Lake, Lake Leake and Lake Rowallan. Smaller stockings were also undertaken in smaller but locally important fisheries such as Blackmans Lagoon, Little Waterhouse Lakes and Pet Dam. A small stocking of 500 fin-clipped 30 g brown trout were also stocked into Lake Botsford as identified in the Western Lakes Wilderness Fishery Management Plan. An experimental stocking of brown trout was also conducted in broadwaters of the Break O’Day River to assess return rates in a slow flowing meandering river which suffering from recruitment failures.

Recreational Marine Fisheries News Temporary area Closure for the 2009 Scallop Season

The D’Entrecasteaux Channel has been temporarily closed to recreational scallop fishing for the 2009 recreational scallop season following research showing that fishing is impacting on scallop stocks in the area.

The area closure is necessary to preserve scallop stocks for the future after research by the Tasmanian Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute (TAFI) showed a reduction in dense scallop beds over the entirety of the channel area and limited recruitment of queen and commercial scallops.

Scallops are notorious for having highly variable populations with the area closure being declared to maximise the chances of successful recruitment by the remaining mature stocks in the centre and southern parts of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel.

Preserving major scallop beds of mature scallops provides the best chance of successful spawning and settlement and limits the risk of longer closures being required in the future.

All other State waters will continue to be open for the 2009 scallop season, providing scallop fishers with the opportunity to take scallops from other areas, with commercial scallop fishers not permitted to dredge in waters less than 20 metres in depth.

Historically scallops beds have been found in shallow waters in several areas outside the D’Entrecasteaux Channel including Adventure Bay, Bicheno, Binalong Bay, Coles Bay, Frederick-Henry Bay, Great Oyster Bay, Marion Bay and Norfolk Bay. The closed area in the D’Entrecasteaux Channel is the area bounded in the north by a line from Dennes Point to Piersons Point and in the south by a line from Scott Point to the northern tip of Partridge Island, then from the southern tip of the island to the Labillardiere Peninsula. Fishing for scallops will be prohibited in this area, including possession of scallops while swimming.

The 2009 recreational scallop season will be from 4 April to 31 July 2009.

Have a Say on the Rules for Tasmania’s Marine Scalefish Fishery

The Department of Primary Industries and Water is currently reviewing the rules for

marine scalefish fishing. Scalefish fishing includes recreational and commercial use of rods, lines and nets to fish for marine fish species, including finfish, sharks, octopus, calamari and squid.

In September, an issues paper and questionnaire were released to get feedback on what issues are of concern and why.

Comments on this phase of the review have now closed but you still have opportunities to have a say.

The Department is currently compiling the feedback on the issues paper and developing a new draft management plan which will be released for public comment in February/ March 2009. Public consultation meetings will also be held in key centres around the State.

The issues paper outlined issues that were identified following the previous scalefish fishery review in 2004, including: • improving fishing practices to reduce bycatch, excess and unwanted fish; • reducing the impact of fishing on wildlife; • recreational licensing; • recreational size, possession and boat limits; • commercial trip limits; • shark refuge areas; • commercial Danish seine netting arrangements; and • appropriate use of areas for recreational and commercial fishing.

To view the issues paper, register for email updates and keep up to date on the review’s progress visit: • www.fishing.tas.gov.au or call the below contacts with any questions on the review: • recreational scalefish enquiries (03) 6233 7042 • commercial scalefish enquiries (03) 6233 6717

Need more information?

For information on recreational sea fishing: • call the Recreational Sea Fishing Line on (03) 6233 7042; • visit www.fishing.tas.gov.au; or • subscribe online to have fishing news information updates emailed to you.

StockingundertakenbytheIFS22May-16September2008.

8-Jul-08

50

brown trout

1000

Date

Number

Species

Weight (g)

8-Jul-08

100

brown trout

1000

10-Apr-08

17050

rainbow trout

2.5

8-Jul-08

70

brown trout

1000

22-May-08

1000

brown trout

1200

9-Jul-08

70

brown trout

1000

22-May-08

750

brown trout

1200

10-Jul-08

9000

rainbow trout

20

23-May-08

750

brown trout

1100

10-Jul-08

500

brown trout

30

24-May-08

700

rainbow trout

6

10-Jul-08

250

brown trout

30

27-May-08

260

brown trout

1200

17-Jul-08

200

brown trout

1000

28-May-08

850

Atlantic salmon

1500

17-Jul-08

100

brown trout

1000

28-May-08

450

Atlantic salmon

1500

18-Jul-08

2000

brook trout

200

28-May-08

200

brown trout

1200

24-Jul-08

2500

rainbow trout

400

29-May-08

20000

brown trout

20

24-Jul-08

750

Atlantic salmon

750

2-Jun-08

50

brown trout

1200

24-Jul-08

5000

rainbow trout

20

2-Jun-08

50

brown trout

1200

29-Jul-08

117

brown trout

1400

3-Jun-08

3917

brown trout

29-Jul-08

33

brown trout

1000

6-Jun-08

20000

rainbow trout

31-Jul-08

2600

rainbow trout

20

9-Jun-08

4172

brown trout

1-Aug-08

2700

rainbow trout

20

17-Jun-08

1625

brown trout

6-Aug-08

5000

rainbow trout

35

24-Jun-08

9000

brown trout

20

7-Aug-08

30000

rainbow trout

25

24-Jun-08

10000

rainbow trout

20

13-Aug-08

500

brown trout

200

30-Jun-08

100

brown trout

1000

13-Aug-08

200

brown trout

200

8-Jul-08

100

brown trout

1000

14-Aug-08

2100

rainbow trout

39

8-Jul-08

35

brown trout

1100

21-Aug-08

2100

rainbow trout

35

8-Jul-08

35

brown trout

1100

26-Aug-08

5500

rainbow trout

35

8-Jul-08

50

brown trout

1000

4-Sep-08

1486

brown trout

63.3

20

Free Classifieds Advertisements of a non-commercial nature, to current subscribers of Tasmanian Fishing and Boating News, are free and can be inserted for two issues. Cost for commercial and non subscribers remains at $11 and must be pre-paid.

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Adam Rice recounts his capture of a lifetime (so far).

Well, I’ve been fishing for a while now and been hanging out for the elusive big fella. My patience and persistance paid off recently - Tuesday 16 September.

My mate Vossy (Peter Voss) and I took off for a mission to Woods Lake. We left home at about 3 pm and arrived to a stiff breeze and white caps, which ruined any chance of a late arvo flick. Wondering what to do we initially thought we’d go to Bronte/Bradys area, but at the last minute I mentioned Arthurs. We found a sheltered area and it was supposed to clear up, so we parked it there for the night and well we would just wait and see what the morning held weather wise.

We set up - fire, food, beverages and a couple of grubs on the bottom. We were half way through tea and my baitrunner squeals. I jag onto a big snag and snap off. Not happy and I presume it is an eel. Twenty minutes later Vossy gets a bite and nails a brownie on his lil grub. It is a small fish about a pound, I had another touch, but nothing. Vossy pulls the pin early, but I venture on. I’d had a few bourbons by this stage when my bells rattled hard. I sprint down and the old Black Queen was bent a little and bouncing. I felt a tap, a pause and then a hit. I strike, but nothing. Frustrated, I recast and go back to tea.

I’m cooking and I hear the distinct rattle of my bells. I dump the chicken and bolt. There is no movement of my rod.

I move to the ole queeny and I see its tip bent slightly and then a nice bite bounce shortly after. Totally on the ball I pick up my old queeny, hold her tight and feel the tension build and the rod bounce. I lift and bang!, Iwas on. Immediately, about

25 metres out, there was a huge splash. My heart skipped a beat and I started to shake. My eyes did light up and I thought what the ?#%* have I got on here. Huge splashes, head shakes and immediate grunt and speed.

I have a go at reseting my dodgy tension on the old baitrunner. I wasn’t happy with the line I was running either - it should have been replaced. Then fish bolted straight at me. I didnt realise at first and thought id lost it, but wound fast and hard to gain line. I managed to keep the tip bent slightly to keep up. The run stopped and veered right.

Then my dodgy drag took over. I had to up the drag another notch. This stopped him, the queeny bent in half and did that horrid thing, peeling line off under tension. I was screaming at Vossy by this stage who apparently was sound asleep. How would I get the net? I had it close now circling deep and somehow I managed to stagger back up the bank, keeping pressure on and grab the net. My heart was racing. I hadn’t seen the fish or gauged its size. I just knew it was a ripper. Man was I pumped.

I turned on my torch to get my bearings even though it was a full moon and bright. Up it came and tail smacked and splashed and went ballistic at my feet. Awkwardly I somehow

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• One studio has disabled access.

• Experience easy-medium wilderness bushwalks from 1 - 7 hours • Spoil yourself after the Overland Track, best facilities and value.

• Enjoy trout fishing - licenses available, launch your own boat, book a trout guide in advance • Take a day trip to Queenstown for the West Coast Railway • Cruise on the Lake St Clair ferry • AAA 3½ • Seniors - book direct to save 10%

Inspections are welcome 500 metres toward Hobart from the Lake St Clair Road Junction

Phone or book online info@derwent-bridge.com

Our time is yOurs…

Fishing and Outdoor

Strahan Marine CharterS

where the forest meets the sea

The store with more on the West Tamar. Everything you need for fishing and outdoors.

Seven days a week and public holidays.

48 Weld Street Beaconsfield Ph 03 6383 1555

on port arthur’s waterfront...

Let us be your guide, whether you are after the excitement of catching your own fish or a more relaxed scenic cruise we will personalise the cruise to suit you.

380 Pirates Bay Drive Eaglehawk Neck Toll free 1800 639 532 (03) 6250 3262 www.lufrahotel.com or lufrareception@bigpond.com

Ph: 03 6250 2888 www.stewar tsbaylodge.com.au

(03) 6471 4300

“ What a great place to stay! These quality, new bungalows have everything you could ask for to comfortably explore this beautiful region of Tasmania.” (Wendy & Harry- Ulverstone TAS)

122

Reflective journeys, deep wilderness, * echoes of the past and $ an untouched coast from

9359

For more information on any of the experiences strahan marine Charters offer, contact the strahan Activity Centre: activities.centre@strahanvillage.com.au

www.puretasmania.com/SMC

GreenGate Cottages

Ideal for families and couples.

Two cottages each with two bedrooms.

Easy walking distance to town centre.

• BBQ facilities • Fully self contained

Stay at the welcoming Strahan Village, the perfect base to explore the rugged West Coast, from just $122* per night, including two breakfasts. Book your Gordon River Cruise, West Coast Wilderness Railway or Piners & Miners journey when you call.

Historic Port Arthur

6789ArthurHighwayPortArthur(03)62502217

Superbly situated on a beautiful waterfront, The Fox & Hounds Inn is a family owned and operated business, located at Port Arthur on Tasmania’s spectacular Tasman Peninsula.

Just one minute from the Historic Site, the property provides a link to our convict history, as well as the opportunity to explore 24 acres of native bushland, perhaps spotting wildlife such as cockatoos, echidnas, or wallabies at night.

The Fox & Hounds Inn is a one-stop location, with an on-site bottle shop, bar, and licensed restaurant – renowned for delicious, hearty meals made from the freshest Tasmanian produce.

For bookings or information call

1800 084 620 Fishing News - Page 44

Cnr Andrew and Harvey Sts. Strahan 7468. ph: 03 6471 7268

9359

*Per room, per night (Garden View room, single/double occupancy, including 2 breakfasts).

Subject to availability. Conditions apply. Valid to 30/11/2007. Quote GS068 when booking.

2005960GL

Twelve pounds from Arthurs

had the net in place. It more or less danced into the net and as I lifted, somehow still holding the torch I ran, jumped up and down, bellowed and screamed. In an instant I was at full noise. I knew it was a fish of a lifetime, but I took off up the bank withought even looking at it.

I was at Vossy’s swag bellowing at the top of my voice till he finally woke and realised what was going on. I’ve never screamed and yelled so much in my life. All I could say was have a look at the size of this thing, over and over.

This was a huge brownie. Twelve pounds in the net, 10.25 lb cleaned and in fantastic condition. I didnt get much sleep.

We were up at sparrows, cooked brekky and laughed about last night. We were frozen and so was most of the gear and the fish was too. It was a beautifull morning and we headed to Woods Lake. We trolled for the morning, nailed five and lost just as many. Tired and spent we head back home. I get an official weight of 4.68 kg cleaned, 79 cm long, 45 cm girth.

I did think of mounting it as its my first over 10 lb, but there’s always next time.

Adam Rice

email: enquiries@strahanbungalows.com.au

20 Meredith St, Strahan 7468. ph: 0439 717307 Email: hentystrahan@bigpond.com.au

www.foxandhounds.com.au

Fishing and Boating Directory Advertise here for $77. Contact Quenton Higgs 0427 129949

Fishing • Guiding • Charters

GO Fishing charters

St Helens Youreveryneedcateredfor

46’ Cresta Sports Fisherman Based at Southport fishing Pedra Branca

• Up to eight anglers • Professional crew • Comfort plus • Full range of tackle • Huge variety of fish • Australian record holders Contact: Lee Harris 0407 240 750

•Eighten-suitecabins • Convenience store • Hot takeaways •Groceries•Newspapers • Boat parking • Fuel • Bait and tackle • Boat and car wash

Hillcrest Tourist Park & Mini Market 100 Chimney Heights Rd. 6376 3298

Tackle and Supplies

Call in for all your fishing tackle including full range rods, reels, lures, landing nets and bait. Also life jackets plus diving gear and stuff for all water sports.

Scott, 53 King Street Scottsdale.Ph. 63522357 Julie-Anne, 41 Quail Street St Helens. Ph. 63761390

36’ Steber Sportsfisher Eaglehawk Neck - Jan-April Pedra Branca - July Bookings/info - Steve Gilbert 03 6261 1558 or 0408 105 311

Aluman

Engineering

Vandieman Seaman boats

Top Service – Top Price

Proplate BURNIE MARINE custom boats Services • Over 30 years experience on all types of motors • Approved Boat repairs insurance repairer to boats and motors • Propellor rebuild and refurbishing • Repairs of all types - including skegs etc.

• Contact: Cyril Stevens Phone 6431 3082 Fax 6431 1255

MOONSHINE CHARTERS

Boat building and repairs

Propellor repairs Mark Tapsell 424 Hobart Road, L’ton Ph 6343 3341

www.moonshinecharters.com.au

GREAT LAKE SHOP SPINNING RODS, REELS & LURES • Hooks, sinkers, bait including mudeyes, scubworms •Excellentselectionlocallytiedflies • Fishing licences • Maps Petrol, diesel, air, ice, gas bottle refills.

Full range groceries, magazines and papers.

Ph 6259 8149

Cnr.MarlboroughandGreatLakeHighways.

Launceston Lakes Fly Fishing Fly Fishing Tuition, conducted at the waters edge max. of four clients per guide, 9am or 1pm 7 days 3 hours tuition and ½ day is 4.5 hours full day 10 hours same tuition 3 hours minimum. ½ day $150. Full day $200.

Bookings are essential.

1166 Ecclestone Rd, Riverside Phone 03 63 966100 www.launcestonlakes.com

Gone Fishing Charters

• East coast estuary and bay • Bream, salmon, garfish, flathead, mullet and squid • Specialising in BIG BREAM • Soft plastics, lures, flies and bait • 5.8 metre sportfishing boat.

Gone Fishing Charters - St Helens MichaelHaley63761553or0419353041 mhaleycharters@bigpond.com www.breamfishing.com.au

Fishing News - Page 45

Bel-Ray Lubricants

Bel-Ray saltwater proof grease is just that. Waterproof, not water resistant like all the others. Manufactured with an aluminium complex and barium gel system the product will protect bearings subjected to saltwater contamination for extended periods.

Professional abalone diver Max Stevenson says “ I launch my boat up to ten times each week and using Bel-Ray grease has extended the life of my boat trailer bearings by five years”.

Besides being suitable for all marine applications Bel-Ray saltwater proof grease is suitable for automotive wheel bearings with disc brakes, universal joints and general chassis lubrication. Available in 454 gm tubs or 454 gm cartridges.

Bel-Ray 6 in 1 is a thin film multi-purpose penetrating fluid and corrosion protector. It penetrates to prevent metal to metal contact for reduced wear and protects

Protect your boat, motor and trailer with BEL-RAY. Waterproof grease and 6 in 1 Lubricant Available from selected dealers including: Webster Bearing and Engineering Tas Bearing and Chain, Launceston NBC Engineering, Kings Meadows Port Sorell Marine, Shearwater St Helens Mower Centre Trade enquiries P.M. Glover 6327 2322

against rust and corrosion. It provides superior lubrication for control cables, loosens rusty nuts and bolts and will displace water. It is ideal to combat condensation on outboard motors. 6 in 1 will not evaporate but leaves a thin film of lubricant on parts that have been treated.

Available in 547 ml pressure pack.

Available from selected dealers including: Webster Bearing and Engineering, all branches 6332 2309 Tas Bearing and Chain, Launceston 6326 6377 NBC Engineering, Kings Meadows 6344 5533 Port Sorell Marine, Shearwater, 6428 7124 St Helens Mower Centre 6376 1070 Trade enquiries and supplies P.M. Glover 6327 2322

St Helens Boat Storage

There is a brand new boat storage facility at Baileau Street, St Helens that provides generous secure storage for small and larger boats.

Located within a secure, remote accessed compound close to the centre of St Helens it is ideal for shack owners and locals whether residing in town, Binalong Bay or Scamander. Stages 1 and 2 of the development comprise eighteen completed free standing sheds and boat wash facility. No more having the arduous task of washing your boat down after a tiring two hour drive home! A final six sheds will be constructed over coming months. The professionally constructed and finished sheds are 10m long x 6.5m high x 6m wide each with a remote controlled roller door, power and water. There is heaps of room for manoeuvring trailers and storage of additional gear. The sheds are particularly suitable for boat owners requiring extra height.

One of the major features of these sheds is that each shed is on its own title. This means that each shed can be purchased giving the owner title to his own shed.

They can therefore be purchased as an investment for use by the owner or leased out to provide an income.

It presents an opportunity to acquire a low priced

commercial investment property, due to appreciate in value in the future whilst at the same time providing a great facility for the owner. At a cost of $60,000 gst inclusive it would make an ideal super fund investment perhaps.

Alternatively the sheds may be leased on an annual basis for a rent of $4,680 plus gst p.a. This can include the option to purchase.

With a quarter of the project already sold remaining sheds are expected to be in hot demand by boat owners, fishermen, investors and other people requiring general storage facilities. Call Phil McMaster 0418 524970 or Barry Sproal 0408 561370.

$$$ News Flash $$$

Any tuna club member who purchases a shed we will donate $500 of the sale price to their nominated club.

St Helens

STORAGE SHEDS

Brand new industrial sheds at St Helens

Strata titled - $60 000 incl GST. Size: 10m x 6m x 6.5m.

Facilities include: • Security fencing • Electric securitygates•Electricrollerdoors•Easyaccess• Designatedwashdownfacility•Greatforboatowners, smallbusiness,generalstorage,Industrialuse.

EnquiriesPhilMcMaster0418524970orBarrySproal0408561370

Y LIMITED FOR A VER TIME ONLY Pty Ltd u y Walk-Thr 4.85 Cudd URNKEY

E T COMPLET AGE FROM PACK

$31,995

FREE O FREIGHT T * NIA MA TA*S y pl ap ns conditio

VIC 3153 Bayswater y a w h ig H in ts.com.au 461 Mounta treakerboa s @ s le a s 29 8288 Email: ils: (03) 97 ta e D r For fo Phone e Website

Th Check Out ED Boat Deals NEW & US

u .a m o .c s t a o b r e k www.strea u y Walk-Thr d d u C 2 .0 5 RNKEY

E TU COMPLET AGE FROM K C A P

$37,970

Fishing News - Page 46

Lyndcraft Boats - at the cutting edge LYNDCRAFT boats have always been in the forefront of the aluminium boat building industry in Tasmania and over the past decade they have designed and built jet boats for the Asian market, patrol boats for the Australian Federal Police to work in the Solomon Islands and general work boats for Antarctica.

Their smaller aluminium craft have also been popular with the fishing fraternity and along with their all aluminium trailers have started to make an impact and take a share of the market.

Like a lot of boat builders in Tasmania they have had to rely on other industries to cut and press the aluminium, making the boats slower to build and therefore more expensive.

LYNDCRAFT BOATS 800 square metre factory now boasts a 9 metre CNC router cutting machine that has the potential to cut 0.5 to 30mm plate aluminium, accurate to 0.2mm.

The machine can also engrave, and is used in the production of I.D. and tally plates, its versatility was seen when it cut and engraved all the plaques for the recently constructed Kirwans Jetty.

Powered by a 16HP motor and boasting a 10 tool rotary changer, it is the only privately owned router machine of its kind in the state.

To complete the boat building scenario a 5 metre 160 ton press break

with a 450mm throat has also been installed with the capacity to press the bottoms of all LYNDCRAFT smaller boats and professionally fold corners and edges giving the full range of boats an aesthetically better appearance.

With the two machines combining tog ether, LYNDCRAFT BOATS are now able to meet the demand and compete seriously with mainland boat builders.

All materials can now be cut on site with the new computer controlled router cutter.

With about 15 boats currently in their range; those looking to buy or upgrade can choose from a 3.6m open dinghy through to the serious 7m full cabin.

Buying direct from the manufacturer is also is a bonus, boats can be made to suit your boating requirements and extras can be fitted at a minimal cost. Including custom painting to suit your desire.

With a full range of SUZUKI outboards to choose from, LYNDCRAFT BOATS can now offer you a package deal on one of their new range of boats complete with a drive on aluminium trailer.

Check out the differences between a LYNDCRAFT boat and trailer before you make that important decision.They are built by Tasmanians for tasmanian conditions.

GEORGES BAY MARINE AND LYNDCRAFT BOATS. 63762800

Lyndcraft boasts 15 boats in their range from 3.6 metres to 7 metre cabin.

Spring Bargains at St Helens

Altron reel + line + 100pc tackle box $65

Mustad Pro Select line 330YRD $8

Mason (9ft) Leaders $1ea Squid jigs $1.75

Salmon lures $2.50 TX Live fibre braid 300YRD

$39.50

Glitzzy UV Surecatch cap light Tinsel $4 $7.50

Killwell Fly Rods $70

Georges Bay Marine, Tasman Hwy, St Helens, 6376 2800 Fishing News - Page 47

If you’re looking for a mid range four stroke motor look no further than the Yamaha F60. Available in both forward control and tiller steer models the F60 is an extremely versatile engine.

Acknowledged as the best in its class, the Yamaha F60 is an impressive blend of superior power to weight matched and miserly fuel efficiency that is second to none.

Yamaha’s engineers have again produced an outboard motor at the absolute pinnacle of engine design. Industry leading technology ensures that Yamaha continues to be Australia’s favourite outboard.

Reliability Comes Standard

ULTIMATE RELIABILITY

Visit the Yamaha website to find your local Yamaha dealer: www.yamaha-motor.com.au