Tasmanian Fishing and Boating News Issue 090 2011 February by Tasmanian Fishing

Issue 90 February - March 2011

Print Post approved; PP 702512 00027

Small Streams Dawn ‘n’ Dusk Game Fishing Tenkara Rods Silver Trevally Hopper Time Sharks

Lucy Trinca loves hopper time - more on page 39.

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10 18 29 My Say

Have you got a big idea for our trout fishery? Not some air-headed, hair brained thing that can never happen, but something that is achievable. Anglers have had them in the past, and Four Springs is one. This extraordinary fishery was conceived, developed and accomplished by a few anglers who had a vision. They didn’t let anything get in their way in achieving their goal. Now we have a wonderful fishery for the benefit of all. Inland Fisheries Director, John Diggle said to me recently ‘Wouldn’t it be great if we could have a Four Springs close to Hobart’. Of course we can do it, but it takes a bit of effort. First anglers need to find somewhere then the process can start. It needs to have good rainfall, good access, be within an hour, or less, of Hobart and of course be logistically possible. Where will the money come from? I don’t know, but big ideas and big projects are possible—it is just getting started that is the difficult part. Another big idea is to restore Shannon Lagoon to a good fishery. Everyone who has some power in making it happen can tell me why it can’t happen, but that is just bureaucratic diversion. It is interesting

Trout everywhere — Craig Rist

Inland Fisheries Service News

Stocking the Western Lakes — Sarah Graham

New weather forecasting

Fishing on the wild side — Mike Fry

Dawn ‘n’ Dusk — Todd Lambert

Jan’s Flies — Jan Spencer

Tenkara fly rods — Nick Taransky

Game fishing heats up — John Orchard

Shore based St Helens — Jamie Henderson

Silver trevally from the shore — Daniel Paull

Hopper time — Peter Hayes

Reviews

Marine fishing news — Sharks

Fishing, boating and accommodation services directory

that the private sector looks at things and wonders how it can be done, but the Government, Hydro and other are happy to put forward all the reasons why it can’t happen. We have lost Crescent, Sorell and Lagoon of Islands. We hope Sorell and Crescent come back; sadly Lagoon of Island wont. Our current Minister for both marine and freshwater fisheries, Bryan Green did a great job as previous Infrastucture Minister in getting the road sealed between Miena and Arthurs Lake turnoff. This has stopped a lot of sediment going into the lagoon, but there is a lot more to do yet. I will report on this project in the next issue. On another point it was great to see Bryan Green also cut back the total commercial catch of rock lobster. This was sorely needed and hopefully it will help bring this fishery back. He didn’t bow to the arguments and did the only thing a responsible resource manager would do. Cutting the recreational catch is still, I believe, being discussed, but the effect would be absolutely minimal to the extent it would make no difference. So well done Bryan Green.

Tasmanian Fishing and Boating News

Published by Michael Stevens PO Box 7504, Launceston, 7250. Ph/fax; 6331 1278 Email; mike@tasfish.com Advertising: Quenton Higgs - 0427 129 949 Stevens Publishing, ABN 79 095 217 299

All material is copyright and cannot be reproduced without the permission of the publisher. Print Post approved; PP 702512 00027

For Subscriptions go to www.tasfish.com or phone 0418 129949

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Fishing News - Page 3

Trout

Everywhere Craig Rist

In Tasmania, trout have found their way into just about every trickle of water around the state. Many of these are very small tributaries of larger more popular rivers. The majority of the fish in these smaller streams are by no means monsters, with the average fish being somewhere between half a pound and a pound. Small brown trout dominate most of these small streams with the exception of a few rainbow only waters that are isolated from the dominant brown trout population. The upper Mersey River between Lake Meston and Junction Lake is a classic example of this with its huge impassable waterfalls preventing any further migration of brown trout up stream.

The coloration of many small stream browns can be quite remarkable. Many fish possessing brilliant red or orange spots down their sides. But by far the most appealing thing about these small streams is the seemingly endless number of opportunities you have to actually catch a trout. On some streams, every pool will contain half a dozen or more fish, so if you miss an opportunity in one pool you simply move onto the next and try again. These small streams can teach you so much about trout and the way they hold and feed in different parts of the stream. Lessons are often learnt by trial and error, with a single day on a small stream giving you many opportunities to learn the way of a trout in a river. The world of a trout in a small stream is highlighted even more with a pair of Polaroid sunglasses on a bright sunny day. The smaller fish can be seen holding in the shallow tail of the pool while the larger fish are often holding stationary or patrolling the best of mid section. Take a moment to watch the fish in a pool for a while and you will soon see them taking insects beneath the surface as they shift to one side and rise up to take insects from the surface. The very nature of a small stream Fishing News - Page 4

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with its close proximity to the streamside vegetation sees many insects finding their way into the water. Because of this and the competition that exists for food within each pool, trout are nearly always looking up. The short runs and pools that are often present also mean they have very little time to accept or reject a possible food item. Sometimes even small leaves or sticks floating past are mistaken for food. This eagerness to rise is why dry fly fishing small streams is so appealing. When dry fly fishing small streams it’s quite often more about the “take” and not the size of the fish that counts at the end of the day!

Presentation

be spooked up stream taking many of the bigger fish with them as they charge around the small pools in a panic. You can sometimes overcome this by entering the stream above the tail of the pool so the smaller fish are spooked down stream, leaving the slightly larger fish in a better state of mind to accept an artificial. Every one loves to cast a line with the wind at your back as the line always lays out straight. But if your leader is not snaking out in loose coils you will be fighting the effects of drag all day. I find the simplest thing to do in this situation is to just keep lengthening your tippet until you can no longer cast it in a straight line. If your leader then becomes too long to manage simply shorten it up by cutting out the heavier mid section leaving the fine tippet to snake its way out onto the water to take up the affects of the different flows.

When you see a fish rise up to your dry fly and then stop, follow it down stream for a while and then refuse it, this immediately prompts the question of why? This is just one of the reasons why fly fishing can take you on a seemingly endless quest to learn more about your target species and the food organisms they feed on. Fish in small streams will usually take a well-presented dry fly but there are times when they too can have you scratching your head in disbelief, as they refuse some of the most reliable flies ever made. Like most trout fishing scenarios, presentation plays a major part to a trout accepting an artificial. One of the biggest things that can destroy your presentation in a river is the onset of drag to the fly. I can think of only two exceptions, one is during the madness of grasshopper season when trout are accustomed to seeing hoppers kicking down stream and the other is during caddis hatch when skating a caddis fly across stream actually represents the action of the natural. Presenting a dry fly with the longest drag free drift on a river is always going to pull more fish. There are some simple things you can do to make Casting in small this happen. Any river, be it twenty metres wide or half a metre wide has water flowing at different streams speeds across its width. Trying to land a fly over the One of the best things top of a fast flowing rapid into the slower water off to about small streams is the side with a straight line cast will see drag setting that you can always find in almost immediately as the fly line is swept down one to match your progression into fly fishing. There No monsters, but good fun on little rods stream in the fast water. By simply repositioning are streams that are flanked by open paddocks such as this 5’9” fibreglass Vision Cult. your casting position you can eliminate the need to making them ideal for anyone starting out that cast over this faster flowing water that will create A necklace carries the required tools needs a bit of room to throw a line. There are also drag. One step sideways can make all the difference many tight overgrown streams that will test the and one box of flies in a pocket is all to get a drag free drift in a small stream. One of the patience and challenge the skill level of the most that is needed. hardest places to get a drag free drift while fishing advanced caster. Pulling off an impossible cast and upstream is at the tail of the next pool above a fast getting a drag free drift is often satisfaction enough flowing rapid. Casting a slack line with big loose sections of fly line over this fast water will give your fly a few more valuable seconds of drag free time on the water. This cast will take a little practice, but what better place to try it than a stream that is loaded with trout and opportunities. Another method of reducing drag in this situation is to lay your fly line on top of a large exposed rock at the head of the rapid, delivering only your leader and fly onto the slower water above. In many cases on a small stream it’s possible to get up close to the tail of the pool and deliver the fly with most, if not all, of the fly line held off the fast moving water. This short line approach will often give you the longest drift possible in this situation. In many of the over grown little streams, the rise to a fly from a short line is often only heard and not seen, as the fly is swept out of sight under the over growth at your feet. At times these small fish at the tail Fishing small overgrown streams requires a few different casts in your kit. The of the pool can be a real curse, as they are usually the first to Editor, Mike Stevens, showed me a new bow and arrow cast that works like a gem.

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Fishing News - Page 5

in these streams, with the ultimate complement coming from that subtle take as your fly disappears in a swirl.  When you’re casting a fly in amongst long grass, over hanging trees and blackberries you are going to get your fly hooked up on the back cast or forward cast at some stage. Take it from me, it happens to everyone and it is just part of fishing small streams. Mastering a few different casts for small streams will not only reduce this cause and affect, but also get your fly into places you first thought to be impossible. Short rods come into their own on small over grown streams and without a doubt one of the most useful casts with a short rod can be the side cast. Another useful method of delivering a side cast is to hold onto the fly in your line hand throughout the false cast releasing it only on the final delivery cast. This has the affect of halving the length of the back cast.  As the available room behind you diminishes even further the side cast can be replaced by a roll cast and then when things get really tight the bow and arrow cast can come into its own. I recently picked up a new type

Every now and then a bigger fish will be found and they are often eager for your fly.

of bow and arrow cast while fishing a small stream with Mike Stevens and Leroy Tirant. We were fishing two rods between the three of us on a very over grown small stream that was covered in willow trees. After releasing yet another fish I passed the rod over to Mike and watched him climb down into the river under a canopy of over hanging willows. In the confines of the river Mike began delivering the fly up stream using a bow and arrow cast. But instead of holding onto the fly to load the rod up for the basic bow and arrow cast, as I would have, I noticed he was holding onto the fly line, leaving the fly and leader to trail behind him in the water. When he finally released the line it speared up stream twice the distance of what I could achieve by holding onto the fly. This doubled the length of the standard bow and arrow cast making it an ideal and extremely accurate cast for small streams. Mike’s casting technique was quickly rewarded with a fat little river trout charging around the shaded pool under his bent rod. Until now, I had always though of doing anything other than holding the fly by the bend of the hook would have resulted in the fly being firmly implanted into one of my fingers. Mike assures me this doesn’t happen very often and I must say, I never looked like getting hooked as I used that same cast to successfully probe some areas of a stream that were until now, unreachable.

Flies Flies for small streams are no different to the ones you would use on the larger rivers. Early in the season small streams can offer you the first chance of taking a fish on a dry fly. Size 14 Red Tags can work well early, but if you’re having trouble getting them to look up try putting on a size 16 black beetle as a dropper under your Red Tag. As summer approaches so do the mayflies, caddis, midge and beetles. Again, the Red Tag will catch at this time as will the Royal Wolf along with a host of other flies. Small foam Chernobyl’s Ants, Bionic Bugs and the like, really start to pull fish at this time of year. Peter Broomhall is a very competent and devoted small creek fly fisher who wouldn’t fish any water that holds trout in Tasmania without a box full of his foam bugs. Peter has given me a lesson on the fish pulling power of foam and rubber legs on many occasions on these small streams. These days when I go fishing with Peter I no longer need to ask him what fly he is using, merely what colour?  Late in summer the grasshopper population really explodes on the low land streams. The water level has usually dropped and the fish are fired up on the thought of a grasshopper landing with a splash in their section of the stream. Competition for a helpless grasshopper is often fierce between these fish with things getting a little bit crazy as fish charge down stream several metres to inhale most flies landing with a loud splat. For that reason it’s little wonder flies with a bit of weight such as the foam grasshoppers and Chernobyl’s Ants and of course Peter’s bugs are irresistible to these fish at this time of year. Even late in the season you can still find a small creek somewhere to get a rise to a dry fly.

Down Sizing

Trees are easier to find than fish. Watching the back cast can help, but if you don’t take chances you will miss out on a lot of fish and fishing. Fishing News - Page 6

Anyone who has hooked and then finally landed a big fish on light tackle will know it’s far more rewarding to have done it on tackle that gives the fish more control over the fight at some stage than you do. It’s what makes it all the more satisfying, when you finally do land it. Over the years fly rod manufacturers have been catering for the needs of small creek enthusiasts by making lighter and lighter rods. There was a time when a 2 weight was the lightest rod being made. Today they are down to rods that can cast 000 weight lines. My wife was kind enough to put one of these super lightweights under our Christmas tree last year. The Don River on the north coast is full of small brown trout and just happens to run down past our house.  The first opportunity I had on Christmas day saw me disappearing over the bank with this little

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Where To Start

7’10” Sage and a size 14 Red Tag. The water on the Don was running higher than usual and slightly coloured after recent rains. I waded into the first pool, fishing the Red Tag across the long slow glide of the first pool. The fly wasn’t on the water long before it disappeared in a delicate rise. I lifted the rod and was presently surprised by how much this little rod was bending over under the weight of the tiny fish.  It even buried me under the bank at one stage. This rod suddenly brought everything into perspective and was a joy to cast and catch fish that actually took some controlling on this small river. The next forty five minutes saw 13 fish being hooked and landed along a 100 metre stretch of the river. In my mind anyway, these short light rods are defiantly the way to get the most out of our small streams in Tasmania. But be warned, once these small streams have gotten hold of your imagination you’ll have even more trouble deciding whether to head to the lakes or fish that small trickle of water you passed over, only the other day.

There are so many small streams in this State that it’s hardly worth naming them. Besides, one of the most exciting things about this type of fishing is discovering your own little gem of a stream that makes you feels like you’re the only one who fishes it. For many, this could be closer to home than you think. Tributaries of the better known trout rivers around the State are a great place to start. Pick a fine day, get a map and knock on some doors to gain access to a stream that has taken you eye, or follow up one that has been secretly passed onto you by a friend of a friend, who knows of a small stream that never gets fished. Who knows, that could become your own gem of a small stream. Craig Rist

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Fishing News - Page 7

Inland Fisheries News

A small population of adult fish remained at Lake Sorell and during the spring-summer 200910 spawning season, multiple spawning events occurred resulting in the successful recruitment of thousands of juvenile carp. The spawning was not surprising, as Lake Sorell experienced a combination of rising water levels and increasing temperatures at the time, ideal conditions for carp spawning. In addition, this large water body offers a vast expanse of wetlands which are ideal spawning habitat, making it more difficult to monitor for carp activity. Unfortunately, the reproductively viable radio implanted male carp were implicated in the successful spawning events.

Kevin Ellard, Senior Vetinary Officer (Aquatic Health), DPIPWE, conducting the surgical sterilisation procedure on a male carp.

infection. They will be held for observations over the coming months to determine the success of the strerilisation methods. If successful, the Service plans to deploy the radio implanted carp in Lake Sorell during winter 2011, prior to the start of the spawning period in spring. It’s not known yet whether these surgically sterilised males will perform as well as the previous reproductively viable radio-tagged carp. This will become clear once the success of the sterilisation process has been confirmed and the radio-tagged fish are released. However, if they’re like most other species, including humans, very little will have changed in their virility and interest in pursuing females, but the risk of breeding has been greatly reduced.

Recovering from surgery - a sterile male carp implanted with a radio-transmitter

Male Carp Get the Snip It’s well known that men who’ve ‘had the snip’ are no less virile than their non-sterile mates, but what about male carp? The Inland Fisheries Service is hoping there’s no reduction in the ability or interest of sterilised males to pursue female carp because it’s planning to use them as radio-tagged transmitter fish in Lake Sorell. Since female carp attract males and form aggregations in preparation to spawn, these sterile male ‘trackers’ obviously need to show interest in order to alert the radio-tracking team about a possible spawning event. Radio-tracking is an important tool for locating carp aggregations and studying carp behaviour, particularly in the large expanse of Lake Sorell. It allows for targeted fishing during periods and at locations where aggregations are occurring, which greatly increases the efficiency of capture and removal of carp. Surgically implanted radio transmitter male carp have been used in both lakes Sorell and Crescent since 1997, and the method has been highly successful at Lake Crescent, where carp have been eradicated.

During a review by the Carp Management Program in May 2010, the risk of continuing to use non-sterile male fish as ‘trackers’ at Lake Sorell was considered too high. Consequently, all but a few of these male tracker fish were removed from the lake in winter 2010 and the remainder, being used in pheromone trials, were removed during spring. It was decided at the review that in order to continue to use radio-tagged adult male carp for radiotracking in Lake Sorell, the Service would need to investigate the options for sterilisation. So, with the support of the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE), the Inland Fisheries Service recently began an investigation on the effectiveness of two different methods for sterilising male carp. The trials are currently underway and the results will be monitored over the next six months. The first method being investigated is chemical sterilisation by an injected implant of Superlorin. This is less invasive; decreasing the threat to fish recovery, but it is a short term fix to reduce sperm count and is likely to wear off after a few months. The second and preferred method is surgical sterilisation, a vasectomy. This has increased likelihood of long term success and it enables the radio-transmitter to be surgically implanted at the same time.

The vasectomy - quarterising the sperm duct. Fishing News - Page 8

To date, the vasectomy has been trialled on ten and the chemical implant trialled on four adult male carp. Six of the surgically sterilised carp were also implanted with radio transmitters. All of the fish have made 100% recovery with the use of antibiotics – an excellent result given warmer water temperatures and increased likelihood of

Keep off the Grass at Penstock Anglers are reminded that vehicle access to Grassy Corner at Penstock Lagoon is prohibited. Vehicles were excluded in 2007 due to past problems of degradation caused by numerous four wheel drive tracks, which resulted in soil erosion and increased sediment load in the Lagoon. Unfortunately, recent reports indicate that some anglers have persisted in driving through this area. So a sign has now been installed to make sure all anglers are aware that vehicles are not allowed. The sign has been erected on the only vehicle access point to the area, which is used by Aurora for transmission line maintenance. The prohibition of vehicle access to Grassy Corner was implemented under the Penstock Lagoon Recreation Plan in 2007 by Hydro Tasmania in conjunction with the Service and AAT. The plan designated all areas for vehicles, parking, day use, camping, caravans and boat launching and non motorised boating zones. Improvements were also made to formalise camping and parking areas, foot access, boat launching and navigation facilities. The Plan was designed to assist in the sustainable management of the Lagoon and its surrounds, and to protect and enhance the environmental and recreational values of this sensitive fishery.

Boat ramp improvements at Arthurs Lake dam wall The Arthurs Lake dam wall boat ramp has been improved under a project funded by Marine and Safety Tasmania’s (MAST) Recreational Boating Fund. The improvements consist of a 15 metre extension and levelling of the rock groyne, which has improved protection for boat launching from the prevailing wind and waves. A solar powered navigation light has also been installed which will assist anglers returning in the twilight or after dark. An added bonus is that the groyne also provides an easily accessible fishing spot.

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Fishing News - Page 9

Stocking H

ave you ever fished in a remote location in Tasmania like the Western Lakes on the Central Plateau and wondered how the fish got there? After all, ‘salmonids’ which include trout and salmon, are native in the Northern Hemisphere and were introduced to Tasmania by early European settlers.

the Western Lakes

Stocking history Since the first successful shipment of live trout eggs from England to Tasmania in 1864, brown trout have been introduced or spread naturally to inland waters throughout the State. While self sustaining populations have formed in many locations, certain waters require periodic or regular stocking by the Service. This is the case for certain waters in the Western Lakes primarily those found in the Nineteen Lagoons area. The first confirmed record of brown trout being established in the Western Lakes was in 1893 and the first stocking by the Fisheries Department took place in 1895. However the Western Lakes only started to become popular with increased access to the area after the 1950s when Lake Augusta Dam was built. By the late 1970s, the number of anglers visiting the area began to rise significantly. This continued until in the 1990s, it was felt that certain management actions were needed so as to preserve the fishery’s unique values and ‘wilderness fishing experience’. After extensive consultation with anglers in the late 1990s, the Western Lakes Wilderness Fishery Management Plan was released in 2002. Some of the stocking objectives and management requirements were subsequently updated in 2008 with the release of the Tasmanian Inland Recreational Fishery Management Plan 2008-2018.

Stocking management objectives The Western Lakes is essentially maintained as a wild brown trout fishery with wild rainbow trout present in some waters and brook trout in Clarence Lagoon only. With thousands of waters in the region, fishery management relies heavily on natural recruitment of wild fish stocks. The primary aims are to maintain sustainable catch rates, fish quality and the overall wilderness angling experience. Only a number of waters in the more popular Nineteen Lagoons area are managed more intensively apart from Clarence Lagoon, which is a stocked Fishing News - Page 10

brook trout fishery at the southern end of the Western Lakes fishery. These select waters undergo a limited stocking program of wild stock brown and rainbow trout fry, hatched and grown at the Service hatchery from eggs harvested from wild fish, as well as adult fish transferred directly from Great Lake. Generally these stockings only occur in waters where natural recruitment is not possible, in circumstances where consistent significant declines in trout populations are evident, and only ever with wild fish stock. In waters stocked regularly with fry, the aim is to mimic a more natural style of recruitment by providing a consistent influx of juvenile fish into the population. This is termed a ‘put and grow’ style of management rather than a ‘put and take’ style arising from only adult transfers. The former has been made more possible in recent years with the increased production of wild fish stocks from the Service’s redeveloped hatchery at New Norfolk.

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Management categories and recent stockings Ada Lagoon, Lake Ada, Lake Augusta, Lake Kay, Double Lagoon, Lake Agnes, Lake Baillie, Lake Flora and O’Dells Lake all have self sustaining brown trout populations and do not require stocking. These fisheries offer average or higher than average catch rates and have specified catch limits – increasing the minimum fish size and/or decreasing the daily bag limits.

Transferring fry into bags partly filled with water.

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East Rocky Lagoon, First Lagoon, Lake Dudley and Tin Hut Lake are managed as trophy waters. They are either not stocked or stocked only at low rates depending on management requirements. For example, the plan is to stock First Lagoon and Lake Dudley with fry every four or more years as required. East Rocky was stocked with 100 fingerling brown trout in May 2010 following a reported population decline. Lake Dudley has also been stocked periodically with rainbow trout fry. Carters Lakes, Lake Botsford, Lake Chipman and Rocky Lagoon are stocked at a moderate rate, receiving fry on an annual basis. These waters offer limited natural recruitment but generally have higher catch rates than the designated trophy waters. In addition, Carters Lakes, Botsford and Rocky Lagoon are stocked with adult fish, and Lake Chipman receives rainbow trout every couple of years. Last May, Carters Lakes, Botsford Lagoon and Rocky Lagoon received 350, 300 and 100 adult transfers respectively; and in October 2010, Carters and Botsford each received 750 fry. Lake Chipman, meanwhile, received 1,500 brown and 1,500 rainbow trout fry in January 2011. Emma Tarns, Third Lagoon, Lake Paget and Second Lagoon are stocked at a low to moderate rate but with varying age classes. Emma Tarns and Third Lagoon are more suited to on-grow trout, whereas Second Lagoon and Lake Paget are more suited as ‘put and take’. Emma Tarns generally receives brown trout fry most years and Third Lagoon every two years, while Second Lagoon and Lake Paget receive adult brown trout transfers every year. For instance, Lake Paget and Second Lagoon were each stocked with 50 adult brown trout in May 2010, while Emma Tarns and Third Lagoon received 375 and 500 fry in January 2011. Little Blue Lagoon is managed purely as a rainbow trout fishery and Clarence Lagoon as a brook trout fishery. They are stocked with wild stock rainbow trout fry and brook trout fingerling every year or two. This year, Little Blue Lagoon was received 3,000 rainbow trout fry in January.

Stocking practice Trout fry have been carried in fish ‘kettles’ and ‘billy cans’ on horse and dray, and then by foot, to remote locations since the birth of the Tasmanian fishery. Today, over a 150 years on, fishery management is more sophisticated but trout fry are still carried on foot to some of the less accessible waters in the Western Lakes. The Service now has vehicles specially equipped for live fish transport and stocking. This equipment includes two 1,000 litre purpose built plastic cartage tanks

with fish outlets at the top and rear, internal aerators and oxygen diffusers. Oxygen tanks and hand held monitoring equipment are also carried on board alongside the tanks. The Service takes great care to ensure that fish mortality rates are kept low to zero throughout the transport process. Fish biomass and water temperature are critical for success hence fish density is kept to a minimum, and oxygen levels and water temperatures within the tanks are monitored. Unnecessary fish handling and transport over long distances, particularly on hot days, is avoided. For stockings of juvenile fish, the utility or fish transport trailer is backed into position at the designated release point and a 150 mm diameter flexible hose is fitted to the fish outlet on the tank. The fish are then ‘shot’ through the pipe once the valve is opened, directly into the receiving water. Larger fish, such as with adult transfers, must be removed manually by net through the large top hatch of the tank and transferred singly into the water being stocked. In the case of the more remote Western Lakes, the young fry are carried inside two strong plastic bags inside a backpack. The inner plastic bag is partly filled with water, approximately three to five litres depending on the density of fish to be carried. The fry are then netted from the outlet and placed in the water, which is then saturated with oxygen. The remaining space in the bag is filled with pure oxygen before being tied tightly. The backpack helps to keep the fish cool and the plastic bags supported during the walk, which can be anything from approximately 20 minutes to two hours.

Seb Horbushko and Rob Keeley - carrying trout fry to Lake Chipman.

Releasing trout fry at Lake Chipman.

Once at the release site, the plastic bags are removed from the pack and the inner bag held in the water for a period. This allows the receiving water to mix with the water inside the bag and helps prevent any shock to the fish as a result of the difference in temperature between the two waters. After a period of adjustment, the fry are released into their new home. They tend to stay together for a few minutes before slowly dispersing once they have grown familiar with their new environment. Also, because they are wild fish stock, their natural instinct begins to take over and they quickly become alert to both prey and predator. It takes these small fry three to four years to reach a legal size for anglers fishing the Western Lakes. Sarah Graham - Inland Fisheries Service.

Just released fry, getting used to their new environment.

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Fishing News - Page 11

Waverider Buoy Lost and Then Found.

Tasmanian Marine Weather Service Waverider Buoy Lost and Then Found.

The Bureau of Meteorology’s Waverider buoy off Cape Sorell broke free from its mooring in early August 2010.

New Forecasting and Warning System

ItThe was found of months later washed up in Birthday Bureau Meteorology’s Waverider buoy off Bay by some cray fishermen. They spent many Cape Sorell broke free from its mooring in early New graphical products that this system You may have heard or read in the media hours of2010. hard yakka the buoytoout producesgetting should be released the from public in about the Bureau of Meteorology changing August late 2011. it’s Forecasting and Warning System rocksforwere it was wedged, up to their quad bikes, Tasmania and wondered what itand allthen about.by bikeThis system is operational in to and boatcurrent to Strahan, Itiswas found months later washed up inthen Birthday Victoria. Currently the Bureau’s Tasmanian their home on cray the northwest buoy had Bay by some fishermen.coast. They The spent many forecasters look at all the different computer Go to the website below for an idea of how weighed in theout vicinity hoursup ofwith hardwater yakkaand getting the buoy from of model guidance, observations, filled satellite the Tasmanian graphics package will operate. kilograms. rocks were pictures and radar, discuss the 180 situation and it was wedged, up to their quad bikes, http://www.bom.gov.au/forecasts/graphical/ formulate a forecast policy for the State. They and then by bike and boat to Strahan, then to sectors/VIC.php then sit down and start typing; aThe task that buoy had only been deployed about one their home on the northwest coast.for The buoy had takes several hours. Waverider Buoy Lost month and was on aand brand new mooring. The of filled up with water weighed in the and vicinity When using the new system the waves recorded during this month were not Then Found. 180 kilograms. meteorologists will be able to build a picture with the maximum wave Thearea Bureau of Meteorology’s Waverider of weather across Tasmania, inexcessive frequent time for that buoy off Cape Sorell broke free from its recorded about 10 metres. Thewill buoy steps extending out to 7 days. They be had only been deployed for about one mooring in early August 2010. able to adjust and fine tune this month picture down and was on a brand new mooring. The It was found later washed upruled in to a local scale using an array of locally, a mooring Whilst failure bymonths itself cannot be waves recorded during this month were not nationally and internationally developed ‘smart Birthday Bay by some cray fishermen. They out entirely there ofmaximum foreign flagged thatwere area with of the wave many reports hours hard yakka getting the tools’ (mini computer programs).excessive for spent trawlers operating in the area the time the buoy recorded about 10 metres. buoy out from rocks were it was wedged, up to Once they have built and adjusted the their quad bikes, and then by bike and boat to broke free. weather parameters and are satisfied with the Strahan, then to their home on the northwest result at the press of a button the computer Whilst a mooring failure by itself cannot be ruled coast. The buoy had filled up with water and will generate all the forecasts from outthe entirely there were reports of foreign flagged ‘pictures’ the meteorologists have constructed. weighed in the vicinity of 180 kilograms. trawlers operating in the area the time the buoy The buoy had only been deployed for about Removal of the typing function will allow for brokeexisting free. one month and was on a brand new mooring. more forecast products and extending products further into the future. The transition to the new system will occur during June. Mariners will notice some changes after the transition. The main change will be the division of the South East Inshore forecast into four separate zones:

The Channel; Derwent Estuary; Storm Bay; Fredrick Henry Bay and Norfolk Bay.

Also these forecasts will extend out to 3 days and contain wave forecast information. There will also be changes to non marine forecasts. The district forecasts will have some new districts and changes to some of the borders. The current cities forecast (6 locations) will become a cities and town forecast and extend to 7days out, initially increase to 13 locations and then to 60 locations later in the year.

The waves recorded during this month were not excessive for that area with the maximum wave recorded about 10 metres. Whilst a mooring failure by itself cannot be ruled out entirely there were reports of foreign flagged trawlers operating in the area the time the buoy broke free.

Above: The buoy’s journey after breaking free. Below: The bashed and battered buoy after retrieval. The buoy’s journey after breaking free.

Above: The buoy’s journey after breaking free. Below: The bashed and battered buoy after retrieval.

The bashed and battered buoy after retrieval.

The replacement buoy that is currently still operating went through a large storm about three weeks after it was deployed. The maximum wave height recorded by the buoy during this storm was 18.4 metres and is shown on the graph above. The low pressure system associated with this wave event tracked along the Antarctic coastline and the The replacement is currently still operating through large storm about pressure fell in thisbuoy low that to 939 hectopascals. Tropicalwent cyclone Yasialowest pressure was three weeks after it was930 deployed. The maximum wave height recorded by the buoy estimated to be around hectopascals. during this storm was 18.4 metres and is shown on the graph above. The low pressure system associated with this wave event tracked along the Antarctic coastline and the pressure fell in this low to 939 hectopascals. Tropical cyclone Yasi lowest pressure was estimated to be around 930 hectopascals.

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Fishing News - Page 13 20/01/11 2:48 PM

Fishing

On the Wild Side

Check it out on You Tube. We were going to head out through Hells Gates for a spin before dropping them off at the back channel jetty at Macquarie Heads. Now most people familiar with the size of Macquarie Harbour would be thinking how are they going to do all that and get up the Gordon and start fishing before setting up for the night in a suitable anchorage. When the vessel is capable of over 40kts I would say not a problem.

Troy Grining’s recently completed Xzet has over 1500 horsepower. Mike Fry doesn’t only live on the Wild Side of Tasmania, but also goes fishing in probably the wildest boat ever to troll for trout— certainly in Tasmania. When your mate says ‘What are you doing tomorrow, want to come up the Gordon for the night?’ it would be pretty hard to say anything else except “you bet” and start checking out your tackle box and packing your overnight bag. But if your mate was Troy Grining and he wanted to give his new 52ft, high speed cruiser a run across Macquarie Harbour, test the new onboard dory with a chance of landing a nice Gordon River Brown you would have to feel privileged. I didn’t say anything about getting

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on my hands and knees and kissing his feet…just having a lend of ya’ but I did feel very appreciative. I would like to say that I spent the whole evening choosing the most appropriate rods, reels, lines and selecting a range of lures, salivating at the thought of immersing myself in one of the most pristine fishing environments that Tasmania has to offer, but I didn’t. As it turned out I was working that evening and in the morning, although up with the larks, I had a number of last minute jobs looking down the barrel of a 10.30am departure from the Strahan wharf. “Xzet” was waiting for me at its berth with a few passengers from the Horsehead Ski Club. Troy and Guy used their massive cruise vessel Eagle to help the club break the world ski record with 114 skiers.

The west coast put on a familiar act as we went out through Hells Gates with a lumpy swell and a metre of sea on top which was going to make dropping a lobster pot in a bit tricky. Our plan was to drop a pot amongst the kelp on the north face of Cape Sorell. We did manage it but let’s not talk about the result. We headed in to Pilot Bay with a view to latching onto a few flathead. Some of the locals were drifting and I am not sure if the sight of this big fishing cruiser was too much for them but they left the bay to us. Maybe it was because the flatties were not around. I tackled up my two rods with soft plastics and we did a drift which usually works here. One of the ladies that I gave a rod to hooked two rats but lost them on the surface. I had forgotten about the mozzies in Pilot Bay… they’ve got two engines on each wing….bring the Aeroguard! Then it was time to drop our passengers off and get down to business. Once clear of the back channel Troy pushed the throttles and we climbed up to the plane and sat on a comfortable 32.9 kts. Troy explained that at that speed we were chewing up 99 litres per hour on each engine and if we took her up to top speed of 43 kts we would go through about 170 litres per hour. Our travelling time to the mouth of the Gordon would be 20 minutes and once there we would be restricted to around 6 kts.

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This vessel has two supercharged high performance Detroit diesels. Troy and Guy Grining bought them from the USA and reconditioned the donks themselves. The V8, 92DDEC 3s are two very mean machines and at 760 hp each this rig flies. The propulsion system is a surface drive from Sea Fury in NZ. It captures air and reduces cavitation to put it simply. Just a footnote the US military uses the standard version of these motors in their Patriot Missile prime movers; and that is just one! As soon as we slowed down I rigged up two rods with Rapala minnows. One was a clear 4” which I was hoping would resemble a recalcitrant whitebait survivor from the annual carnage and the other was a 4” brook trout pattern with an orange belly. I had always done well trolling the edge of the reeds where the large browns lay in wait.

Given that we were not in a tinny but a massive 52 footer may have been the reason that we probably did not latch on. We turned off the port engine and idled with the starboard but I could see that stealth was not going to be our long suit. We persevered for about 45 minutes although I had trolled before in a 50ft sailing cat but today the trout were shy. It could also be that the troops staying at the Boom Camp had taken a fair percentage of the residents out in the previous six months from late August when the first whitebait start showing up. We anchored just above the Boom Camp and Troy’s young son Alex and I headed off in the Quintrex 430 Dory to take a quieter look at the reed banks. One technique that I used previously was to tie a large whitebait saltwater fly about 40cm above a 4” Rapala Minnow. This has worked well in the past but I decided to persevere with what I had. One rod each side with the boat about 2 metres away from the reeds. Troy had mentioned that he saw fish echos on the sounder but down a couple of metres or more. The rain was starting to set in so first evening no fish, we returned to the mother ship for a comfortable evening. With three cabins and a large lounge this is more than just a fishing boat. Around half of the length of the boat is fishing area with the dory on a tilt ramp with the pot hauler conveniently located to double up as a winch to bring the dory back up. The large duckboard provides a great fishing spot, safe boarding and use of the dory to boot. The next morning the weather broke so Alex and I headed off with the promise of a hearty cooked breakfast after the first session. Young Alex did a great job of steering the boat as I worked the rods. Snags were regular and I lost the 4” clear

Then bang! I got a huge hit and then nothing. I took a couple of turns and my first thought was that I must have a lump of weed or a snag. Then it took off again but only for a short burst. I kept the tension on and slowly pulled in and close to the boat the fish made its presence known as it tried to do a runner. I was surprised when it broke the surface when I saw what a good size it was. Alex handed me the net as it gave one last effort at evading capture. The force of the strike had knocked one of the eyes off the lure but I was impressed with both the fish and the performance of the JJs. My scales said 6lb but I reckon they were wrong. It was a case of quality being more important than quantity as I made the decision that the Gordon River had given of itself more than I had hoped for. Alex and I congratulated ourselves as I administered the last rites and headed for a well earned breakfast. This is one area of Tasmania that you can truly say that the beauty of fishing this river is just being there. Catching a fish is a bonus but there are some majestic fish in this river and with just a few hours trolling we landed a beauty.

Above: Mike Fry with a nice Gordon River brownie taken on a trolled JJ lure. Left: Troy Grining and his son Alex in a more sedate vessel and one rather more suitable to trolling than Xzet. Below: The famous Boom Camp where many anglers stay and target the whitebait feeding trout from August onwards.

Rapala and I decided to go deeper using a JJs StumpJumper. I hadn’t trolled with one of these but I decided to give it a go as I felt that we could get down a couple of metres. JJs have been around over 20 years and initially John Ellis used timber handmade lures. These days the new lures are plastic but have an effective action around snags where they tend to float up backwards in a snag. I chose a dark green frog pattern. We were in frog territory and these Gordon Browns would no doubt be familiar with the little critters. I got Alex to head back downstream a mile or two where I had previous catches. Fly fishing in this area can be good casting experience but the water drops off very deep with parts of the river approaching 100 ft deep. The reeds are in about 1.5 metres of water on the edge of the drop off to about 4 metres. I could have brought my fly rod as there are some shallows behind the reeds in places that could be rewarding. If I had more time I am sure a well postioned fly with a dropper could have done the trick. The reeds are thick with a lot of smaller weeds which make for difficult manoeuvring. The trouble is that the Gordon is so isolated and you can’t get across the harbour in a small tinny. Hence “Xzet”.

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Fishing News - Page 15

Left: The JJ lure minus one eye still worked for the author. Above and below: 43 knots and 170 litres of fuel an hour pushed by two surface drives and 1520 horspower.

Tips for the Gordon River: Based on my recent experience try a JJs. Halco have a similar pattern but I find they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t troll particularly well and twist the line. Troll the edge of the reeds and if you have a fish finder look for returns on the drop offs. Spin the cliff edges where the trees overhang. Rapalas have always been my favourite but watch the snags. There are many submerged trees and loosing lures is an expensive exercise. If in doubt move further out. I had a Glass Shad Rap GSR4 in my kit and would have tried that next if I was going to continue to fish as they are recommended down to 11ft. As it happened I used it on the Henty a few days later with a nice sea runner the result.

Stay at the Boom Camp from February onwards or by appointment with clubs from August until end of January. Or do as I did and hitch a ride on a larger vessel as a mothership and stay in comfort. If you stay at the Boom Camp please treat it with respect and leave something there for the next people and make a donation to the upkeep. Xzet will be available for sea charters from early March. Do it and have the ride of your life. Enquiries to World Heritage Cruises 0364717174 or enquiries@worldheritagecruises.com.au Mike Fry

Fishing News - Page 16

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Fishing News - Page 17

Dawn ‘n’ Dusk Many anglers know, dawn and dusk are the best times to be on the water to maximise one’s chances of success. But how many regularly get out of bed early and experience the magic of first light— breaking over one of our lakes and rivers. To be in the half light waiting for the sound of a trout slurping a morsel off the top of the water, or in some cases leaving a ring that is barely visible to the naked eye.

would be hard pressed not to find feeding fish on top at this time of year if the conditions are right.

The fish are there, and they are there in numbers and more often than not they are feeding hard. They often continue to do so until the sun burns off the cloud cover and puts them down to seek refuge in the depths below. I talk mostly in this article about Lake Leake, but a lot of what I say is relevant around the state.

It is a cocky feeling one gets when talking to someone who has just arrived at the boat ramp as you are packing up to head home. They admire your catch and you know they will probably have to work very hard to achieve the same results.

Dawn It’s 4 am and the alarm goes off breaking the nights silence, my wife sighs and mutters something that sounds unfavourable. I am pretty sure I heard the words ‘you’re bloody mad’ in there somewhere and for a few fleeting seconds.. I agree. Then the thoughts of feeding trout invade my head and in no time at all I find myself in the car heading to one of my favourite fishing destinations— Lake Leake. In this article I would like to share some information on this ‘early morning water’ that will hopefully lead to some success for you. I hold few secrets when it comes to sharing experiences and information because as far as I am aware no lake or streams have ever been ruined by doing so and as we all know just because one witnesses success one day, it doesn’t always translate to the next.

Lake Leake Lake Leake has had some very ordinary reports written on it of late with people saying that the fishing there is very challenging. A couple of my mates and I disagree with that line of thinking, as recent trips to this water have resulted in us catching our bags in a very short period of time. If I was a betting man, I would envisage that those not fairing that well there are probably arriving well after all the action has happened....dawn. This water is an amazing fishery for early morning midge feeders, in fact I would go so far as to say you

A perfect morning here is a light southerly and an overcast sky, and I emphasise the overcast sky, for without that, it’s all over by around 8.30 am, but sometimes that’s all you need as the five fish bag limit is often taken by anglers ‘in the know’ by that time anyway.

They might ask us what fly we used, where we went etc and I am happy to tell them. I even give them a couple of the flies, but unfortunately most of the action is over.

Early morning methods Right, you have done all the right things and arrived at Lake Leake as daylight is breaking What to do now? My suggestion is to engage the electric motor, and slowly move around the lake until you spot a wind lane with a bit of insect life in it, then just sit there........for they will come. Unless you have an experienced eye, you may not notice feeding fish at first, as many just sip their tucker from under the surface, the only giveaway is the slightest ring left on the water. Even when you do pick up the path of a feeding fish, they can still be very hard to follow; this makes for very challenging and sometimes very ‘frustrating’ fishing indeed. That being said, every trip is a new adventure, last time we encountered fish charging past the boat with their heads out of the water and mouths open like one of those ‘whale sharks’ you see on the discovery channel.

by sitting down low in my boat and by picking the direction a particular fish is heading in, I position myself far enough in front of that fish so as to set a trap by casting my fly in wait for it a couple of meters ahead. When one is poised ready to strike as the fish works its way closer and closer, it is a magical feeling, especially when the fly is taken,.... the reel screams to life and it all comes together, now that’s worth getting out of bed for!

Flies Early morning flies for this water need only be as simple as a team of two or three size 12 to 14 black seals fur fly’s with a brown hackle, in fact anything small and ‘red tagish’ like a Zulu dry will work. Presentation is more important than the fly itself, in my opinion. Sometimes though they seem to ignore it and go under your dries, if you witness this happening, after a couple of times, I suggest you tie a small nymph or stick caddis to your dry fly’s hook shank and hang it six inches under it, this technique usually brings the fussy fish undone.

Dusk Dusk is another great time to fish! Minimal effort for maximum results (in theory anyway) and I am all for that. As the sun disappears over the hills that surround Lake Leake, the fish, especially in the last half hour of daylight start to look up consistently again, quite often a persistent angler will be greeted with a huge swirl appearing from nowhere next to his boat as a fish charges to the surface, grabs whatever was on top at the time and heads for the bottom again. An Elk Hair Caddis is a great fly to put on now, especially if there is a good hatch flying around you,

If you’re a long accurate cast, you hold a distinct advantage as this gives you more chances at the fast moving rainbows before they spot you. As for myself, I am not the greatest of casts therefore I improvise

Early morning success at Arthurs Lake.

Long accurate casts on calm mornings are essential. Fishing News - Page 18

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Fishing News - Page 19

beware though as quite often there is no warning of an impending take, they just want to smash it!! Other great flies to try are the Johnny Dekkers’ “Purple People Eater” (a purple woolly bugger with an orange tail) or a buoyant mudeye pattern pulled along the top of the waves in short sharp strips. It might appear like lunacy casting blind in the dark to noises or the glimpse of a ripple that didn’t look quite natural, but if you’re going to get a big fish, now is the time. You don’t have to ‘see’, you only have to ‘feel’ when the line goes tight and you hook up.

Soft Plastics too With the huge advances in soft plastics that have come forward in recent years, this is another method that produces fantastic results in the darker hours. Today we are spoilt for choice and the variations of softies in different colours and scents, pre rigged or unrigged, nowadays, seem endless. I love to fish with plastics early and late in the season especially at dawn as these are the times of the year when the fish are eager to put on condition and they seem to be looking for something a bit more substantial in their diet on a more consistent basis. The fishing can be fantastic, especially if your after that monster! The big advantage with this form of fishing is depending on the level of water you are fishing in

and the size of the jig head you are using, you can cover a lot more territory with the added advantage of longer casts, enabling the angler to reach the depth’s required when necessary. I have caught many fish with soft plastics in early morning wind lanes , (especially rainbows), after spotting a boil or rise and then casting a couple of meters in the direction upon which I think the trout is heading, I then try to retrieve the plastic past the fishes nose. Once again, the strikes can be very aggressive, morso before full daylight. My personal favourite plastics are Berkley gulp pumpkinseeds and the Tassie Yep “Red rascal” and “Flapper” range in both the pre rigged and unrigged versions. As mentioned earlier, I’ve used Lake Leake as an example in this article, mainly because it is one of my favourite waters, but the same techniques and tips could be applied to Burbury, Huntsman, Four Springs, Brumbys Creek etc, etc with equal success, these methods work for me and work well, I am just an everyday angler with no great skill set to fall back on, just a fair bit of experience collected from over four decades of fishing our fantastic Tasmanian lakes and rivers. By making the effort to get up early or by heading out after tea to fish the evening until dark, I do catch fish regularly and so will you.

Top: Soft plastic Dale ‘Yep’ Howard with a dusk caught brownie on a soft plastic. Bottom: Kevin Wilkinson with an Arthurs brownie taken early in the day.

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Jan’s Flies We are lucky in Tasmania to have the many lakes that are surrounded by gum trees. There are numerous insects that live in the trees, and on the right day they will Jan Spencer be blown onto the water. Gum beetles are one delicacy for trout and they often cruise the shallow margins of a lake looking for these and will slurp them down with gusto. So when the breeze is warm the rod and the flies are put into the car and away I go. I have been lucky this summer to be at the waters edge when the gum beetles (Chrysophtharta bimaculata) have started to fall. They are quite a clumsy insect only being able to fly short distances, so around the shore lines are most productive. However, on really windy days the beetles can be blown for miles and end up on the lake next door. The best time to fish for trout feeding on these insects are when the fall first starts or the fall is light. In the past I have witnessed massive falls of beetles and there will be so many the water looks like a greenish carpet but the fish will not be feeding when the fall is like this. I think they like

to see a beetle here and there so it is more of a selective thing. Using an artificial for the gum beetle feeders I only use one fly as there is nothing like putting a single dry fly to a feeding fish. Over many years there have been various beetle patterns used, some quite complicated and others very simple — some of which work well. After working on various patterns over many years — simple is best for me. Fishing the beetle is quite simple find a feeding fish and place the fly in front of the fish and let it find the beetle.

GT Beetle Thread – Brown Hook – Light gauged, short shanked size 10 GT Stripe – Small orange foam cylinder Beetle Back – Olive Rainys sheet foam 1/8” thick Underbody – light yellow seals fur or antron dubbing 1: Take brown thread along shank and slightly around the bend of the hook. Tie in the single foam cylinder. 2: Cut a strip off the foam sheet this needs to be about 12mm wide and 20mm long. Now cut one end of this into a pointed shape. 3: Place the pointed end of the foam strip onto the hook shank so the point is facing toward the hook eye take the thread and tie this down firmly tie the full foam point down going forward and then back to where the foam has been tied in.

4: With the yellow dubbing dub on a nice little fat under body it does not have to be done really neatly as a few fibres will give a leggy look. Take this along the shank and finish back from the eye a little. 5: Bring the foam back forward also finishing back from the eye a little. Tie the foam down firmly but not tightly as if it is too tight the thread will cut the foam. Cut away excess foam to form a head. 6: Pull the orange form cylinder over the top of the beetle back so it looks like a GT stripe. Tie down in the centre of the foam hard. This orange stripe has nothing to do with catching trout it’s there to make the fly easy to see as any beetle pattern of this type sits low in the water. 7: Whip finish varnish and cut thread away.

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Fishing News - Page 21

Tenkara

The long and short of it.....

Fishing News - Page 22

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What

is a rodmaker who does most of his fishing with a six and a half foot bamboo doing with an eleven foot graphite Tenkara rod? This was a question I was asking myself as I made my first cast with the no-reel, fixed line, telescopic rod on a small, Snowy Mountains stream.

What is Tenkara? Tenkara is a fly fishing method, practised in Japan for thousands of years. Literally translated, it means ‘from Heaven’. Like most old rod based methods of fishing, it involves no reel. A fixed line is simply attached to the tip of the rod. Originally the rod was a single piece of bamboo, and the line horsehair.

On the end of the horsehair, the fly was cast or dapped onto the water. Modern Tenkara has evolved to long (eleven to fourteen foot) telescopic graphite rods. Folded down, these rods are incredibly compact, at around 50-55cm. Though the tips are incredibly fine, and fragile if mis-handled, under normal fishing they are cushioned by the rest of the rod. The butt cap unscrews, allowing easy removal and replacement of broken sections if this does happen. A short length of braid (called the ‘lilian’), sealed at the very end, is permanently integrated into the rod tip. A knot is formed in the lilian, allowing the casting line to be looped onto it for fishing, and quick removal when taking the rod down. The casting line is of a fixed length, from one to one and a half times the rod length. There are two choices here. Traditional Tenkara lines are of a tapered, twisted design (like twisted leaders). More recently, people have started using high visibility level 10-15lb fluorocarbon as a casting line. The traditional lines are very light and soft landing, while the relative weight and fine diameter of the fluorocarbon give more line speed and less wind resistance. To the end, a length of fine tippet (recommended 5lb maximum) and the fly are attached. Quite a bit of detailed information on Tenkara is available on the internet. It has generated some recent interest in the USA so there are rods and other accessories available there too. Without reel seat hardware, guides (or wraps), they are quite cheap. A couple of hundred dollars will see you set up with all you need. Check out www.tenkara-usa as a starting point. Though I had heard about Tenkara fifteen years ago, I didn’t give it much thought until recently. While researching bamboo rodmaking in Japan, I came across numerous magazines showing pictures of Japanese anglers fly fishing small streams using Tenkara. The simplicity and apparent limitations of this technique had me curious, especially given the recent resurgence of short line nymphing around the place. Much of my own small stream dry fly fishing is also done at close range, albeit with a very short rod, so I thought Tenkara might make an interesting comparison. Japan Flyfisher magazine staff writer, Tomoniri Higashi, organised a Tenkara rod and line for me to try out. I opted for a ‘short’ 11 footer, in the hope that this would be best suited to our small, often bushy streams. When the package arrived, I attached the line, tippet and a casting fly and went outside for a flick. Without the weight of a reel, the whole outfit was a combined 3oz, which is a strange feel to start with. What clicked straight away, was the casting stroke required to turnover the almost weightless line. It was very similar to the action for throwing

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Fishing News - Page 23

Fishing News - Page 24

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a long leader with no line out the tip off a short bamboo rod. This shouldn’t have been a surprise I suppose, as you need a short, firm, casting arc to load the rod without using the weight of a line to do so. Most references recommend a finger on top style for Tenkara, but I found it a little easier to squeeze a tight positive loop into the cast with a V or thumb on top grip.

Tenkara rod, lines and other (optional)

After this brief introduction, I organised a day with a fishing mate, Troy, up to a small high country creek. We also took a short, 6’3” Cane rod as a comparison. Just to relax and get into the feel of the day, we started with the bamboo, catching and releasing a few small rainbows. It was accessories time, we decided, to get the Tenkara rod out of the back of Troy’s vest and put it to the test.

Lilian with overhand knot prior to line attachment

Lilian showing simple hitch to the line

Which brings me back to the start of the article. The short, tight casting stroke described earlier proved quite effective, and I was popping the fly into corners, up bubble lines and against undercut banks. With an eleven foot rod, and eleven foot line, plus your arm and the leader, casts over 25 feet could be made without too much trouble. It should be noted that some more experienced Tenkara anglers use as much as one and a half times the rod length of line, so with a fourteen foot rod, quite long casts can be made. When the wind picked up, it did take a little more work to punch the fly in than my little bamboo. Similarly, while more accurate than I expected, it was hard to obtain quite the same pinpoint delivery as with a shorter rod. In part this may be down to experience and technique. A few other adjustments had to be made over a conventional rod, but for the most part these were quite intuitive. Without a line hand to manage line, slack had to be managed by lifting the rod up. The long rod and light casting line did make it easier to minimise drag without having to mend. All but the last few feet or even inches of tippet could be held off the water. Even when more line was on

the water, there was less drag on the fine 15lb fluorocarbon ‘flyline’ than a plastic or even silk. It was also fun to flick the fly up and around a bend in the stream before you reached the corner. Knowing when the fish takes your fly would be another thing though I guess! Well, before too long, the inevitable happened, and a little rainbow of about eight inches took down the deer hair caddis. Lifting the long rod gently the hook was set. Now the fun really started. Normally a fish like this would be brought to hand without much fuss. Think again. With the seemingly unwieldy length of the rod and fine tip, and no line to strip in, some short-term mayhem ensued. The rod actually took a much deeper bend than I expected. The feel was also very direct. The line, being attached directly to the tip rather than running through guides, telegraphed every quiver of movement down the rod into my hand. The fish went for an undercut bank close to me and I had to step back to get the rod down low enough to put side strain on it. Back out, it headed downstream in a modest flow and I had to take a few paces after it. Before too long however, with the rod raised up, I had the tippet in hand, and soon after, the fish. Whew, and an eight inch rainbow at that. I will say, however, that there are claims of quite large fish being taken on this tackle. After a quick picture, the fish was released and I handed the rod to Troy. It wasn’t long before he landed a fish too, and we went fish for fish for a while. I’d left the cane rod back a hundred metres while we fished and took pictures. I called out to Troy I’d pop back and get the other rod so we wouldn’t lose it. He said (jokingly, I think) ‘nah, leave that crap back there’. I don’t think either of us were planning to ever be full time Tenkara converts, but it was a lot of fun. We were laughing like kids through the whole experience. There was something Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn about the simplicity of it. We continued on for a bit, before we both started to notice that our rod arm was getting tired and a

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Integral wheel makes transport from your car a one person operation. Fishing News - Page 25

bit sore, like when you’re holding something up on a wall waiting for someone to get organised with a hammer to nail it up. This mainly came about from trying to squeeze the maximum length out of casts, particularly in longer glides, as well as holding the line off the water to obtain a drag free drift. One feature of the telescopic nature of the rod is that you can temporarily shorten it by collapsing one or more of the bottom section to create a shorter rod. This can be used in more tightly overgrown sections or under tree canopies. With so many Australian streams being very bushy and overgrown I do think the ability to fish with a short line as well as a short rod is an advantage. I think Tenkara is probably better suited to more medium sized freestone streams with pocket water and tumbling, turbulent flows, than it is in a really overgrown water. I’m sure more experience would obviously help in managing the almost weightless line in sticky situations however. Seeing some immediate strengths of a new technique are interesting, but what gets me thinking just as much, maybe more, are the limitations they present. It makes you open your mind up a little, and this can feed back on to your regular methods of fishing. As an example; when fishing up a smooth glide, you usually make successively longer casts to fish the water with creating wading wake. This isn’t an option with Tenkara, so you’ll have to look for options from the bank. Too overgrown? Then you’ll have to learn to wade like a heron, lifting each foot gently out of the water on each step, maybe even crouching low while doing so. Result – you become a better wader, which will help whatever tackle you’re using.

An 11 foot Tenkara rod can deliver a fishing reach of close to 30 feet.

After a while we decided to go back to the bamboo. The first cast I made, I nearly threw the rod right out of my hand. The ease of casting the full loading little rod was overwhelmingly comfortable and natural. Again, this was maybe partly being because what I fish most of the time. Troy noted the same thing. We caught a couple more little stream fish and then headed for home.

The long rod, with no ability to retrieve (or give) line takes some getting used to

In a curious coincidence, fellow bamboo rodmaker, Callum Ross, mentioned to me recently that he and some friends from the NSW Southern highlands had been trying out Tenkara gear on small streams there and in the Snowy Mountains. I also see that the Spring 2010 edition of Fly Rod and Reel magazine has an article discussing Tenkara. So, should conventional fly rod and reel manufacturers be quaking in their boots, with Tenkara taking the place of all other tackle? Probably not. I doubt I will fish it more than a few times a season, but even from the brief trial, it was a worthwhile experience. It’s obviously an elegant, simple, effective method, and quite a bit of fun! Nick Taransky Check out Nick’s website: www.taranskybamboo.com.au

Macnab-san with his first Tenkara fish.

Packed down, the Tenkara rod and a small conventional rod are around the same size. Fishing News - Page 26

Despite the obvious differences, fishing bamboo and Tenkara still have much in common.

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Graeme Purton with a 73kg yellowfin.

Marlin—are you serious? Moving down the coast, one boatload of ‘bottom bashing’ anglers got the shock of their lives when a couple of marlin started leaping not far from where they were fishing out off Maria Island – now there is some news that will get the fanatics going!! Strangely enough, the waters wide of Maria Island seem to have consistently produced marlin hook-ups over the past few seasons so this would be an ideal spot to start searching for those looking to land their first billfish. One chap I know hooked up two seasons in a row on what were fairly certain to have been big ‘Blues’ only to bust the first one off and get spooled on the second one – if you are going to have a crack at these make sure your gear is in ‘top notch’ condition because if there are ANY weaknesses you can be certain that ‘Beakies’ will find them!!

EHN—Eaglehawk Neck Further south there have been reports of both albacore and striped tuna in reasonable numbers out of Eaglehawk Neck, predominantly out on the shelf but starting to move inshore as the waters warm up and the occasional angler has been fortunate enough to strike it lucky as far in as the Hippolyte Rock. There have also been reports of small yellowfin jumping out on the shelf but at this stage I don’t know of anyone lucky enough to hook and land one yet – this is sure to change as we move towards March as the fish move in onto the inshore reef structures. Yellow Bluff, Foxy’s reef, Little Hippolyte and the reef at the back of the Big Hippolyte are great places to start looking for those that love challenging themselves against these speedsters of the sea.

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Down around the southern corner Lee Harris from GO Charters (operating out of Southport) took his first team of anglers for this season down to Pedra Branca last week and had an absolute cracker of a day with plenty of - - - wait for it - - - Southern Bluefin

around the thirty kilo mark with one beauty broken off at the back of the boat reported to be around the ninety kilo mark – what a start to the season that would have been - break out the tissues boys!! What is interesting is either these fish have bucked the trend and turned up early this season or as some of the locals have been saying for years now – they never left at all!!! If the weather was a bit more friendly down that way we may well be catching tuna all year round in the game fishing Mecca - Tasmania (certainly at Pedra anyway!) So, although the season seems to have reverted to the days of old where tuna fishing doesn’t get underway until late January – all that remains to be seen is how long it will last this year; will it finish in May or will it keep on going as it has in recent seasons until June July and one year even August? El Nino weather patterns have been good to us – La Nina is an unknown quantity. My advice is strike while the fishing’s hot! Dust the rods off (check the rollers) and give the reels a service, spool them up with new line – sharpen the hooks and get out there and have some fun – tomorrow’s tuna isn’t promised to anyone. John Orchard

Top: Good schoolie bluefin. Left: You can see a huge range of wildlife at Tasman Peninsula.

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Fishing News - Page 31

Shore Based

Location: St Helens

The St Helens area offers anglers a real variety of fishing options for those possessing a boat or kayak, Georges Bay, Scamander River, Ansons Bay and various coastal Lagoons are all easily accessed by watercraft. However the angler on foot is often left standing wondering where to go and what to do as the boats motor off in the distance. But there are options for the walking fisherman to target and enjoy some great sports fish.

Many of the schools of Australian salmon, often with small yellowtail kingfish mixed in, will hold up throughout the bay. They can be seen way out in the middle smashing up the surface chasing baitfish but quite often the large schools of salmon will move in and out of the bay and school up inside the Barway. Its when they move backward and forward like this that the shore based angler can take advantage of a small but productive window.

Most Tasmanian anglers are well aware of the quality and size of the Australian salmon and yellowtail kingfish that are available in Georges Bay, but accessing these fish from the shoreline is sometimes seemingly impossible. However there are a couple of areas and techniques that will allow shore based anglers a chance of tackling these wonderful fish.

The fish will generally follow the tide so as the tide turns and makes the run out it takes a host of food items and bait fish with it and the salmon will often follow. There are a number of areas that the shore based angler can target the salmon but the high tide limits these a little bit and as the tide recedes more area is available to the angler, also concentrating the fish.

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The first and probably most productive area is Dora Point; this is the northern point of the channel as it leaves the Georges Bay and heads over the Barway. Here there is a top class rocky point with easy access and big rock areas protected from waves and spray to store extra gear carried down. The rocks give easy casting straight into relatively deep water running right at the base of the rocks and out to the middle of the channel. On the ocean side of this point is a great little beach that has the channel running almost parallel with it that often has good salmon and kingfish schools sitting within casting distance off the beach. As the tide flows out and drops away more sand on this beach is exposed and the angler is able to walk out closer to the edge of the channel and cast straight into much deeper water, this is where a lot of the salmon will hold just over the edge of the drop waiting to ambush any baitfish forced out of the shallower water. With the tide now much lower another very productive area is also revealed and this is on the inside of Dora Point, by driving to the end of the track past all the camp grounds and walking down the short track through the coastal scrub there is a large sandy spit exposed at low tide that gives access right to the edge of the channel leading out of the bay toward Dora Point. This area can quite easily be fished even without the need for wading and straight into relatively deep water. Quite often through this area large schools of fish will hold up waiting for the tide to move back in bringing with it fresh ocean water and more food and baitfish. But salmon are not the only species available along here, big silver trevally are regularly caught here with the use of soft plastic lures. I consider the northern side of the channel to be the pick of the areas, it gives a wide range of choices depending on whether you like to fish the more ocean side off rocks or the more sheltered water off the sand inside the point however the southern side of the channel also offers some options. The Break Wall at Blanches Point looks like it would be a fish magnet but unfortunately this is not always the case, as the current moves very fast along the wall on either the incoming or outgoing tide schools of fish tend to move by quickly not holding station where it would be easy for anglers to target them. The very end of the wall however can be a different story, as the water movement here tends to eddy and be turbulent if offers some protection for schools of bait fish and mackerel out of the main current. The salmon and more importantly the yellowtail kingfish know this and can often be seen smashing the bait within easy casting distance to the angler. The trick here is to fish right at the very end of the wall and cast into the turbulent water and any water that may be stirred up by wave action. Another area that can be targeted, although a little more difficult to access, is the southern side of the channel on the inside of the Breakwall at Blanches Point. Here you will need to park in the Blanche Point carpark and walk along the overgrown track to the edge of the sand dune bank looking down over the channel. This can only be accessed at low tide and you will need to scramble down the bank using the old makeshift ladder which can be hairy when carrying good quality fishing tackle and a bag of gear. Once down by the channel edge you can walk for quite a distance back down the channel towards the bay and fish the edge the whole way. Along here you have a good chance of also picking up big silver trevally as well as any salmon or kingfish that may be moving in and out. Be warned though that this area is alive with toad fish and leatherjacket that will have you chewing through bags of soft plastic lures at an alarming rate. (Daniel Paull also has good success here. See the following story)

Tackle & Techniques To effectively fish these areas I highly recommend the use of lures over bait, either soft plastic lures, metal casting lures or some of the new style of weighted hard body bibbed lures. I say that because

of two reasons, number one leaving the bait behind makes it easier to move around from spot to spot as you don’t need to carry buckets or packets of messy bait in some type of storage container separate from everything else. Number two when using bait you tend to attract a lot of the less desirable and rubbish fish that would normally not be targeted with lures.

Dora Point Break Wall and Blanches Point

Metal casting lures such as Halco Twisty’s and Slices, Norstream Sluk Lures, Asari Mahi lures or my favourite the Spanyid Raider and Sniper Lures. All of these lures come in a variety of sizes usually ranging from 10gm right through to 60gm to suit whatever conditions the angler is presented with. The metal lures are used more to target the salmon and the kingfish, both of these fish are high speed swimmers so retrieves need to be the same. The technique is to cast as far as possible, let the lure sink for a few seconds or longer depending on the water depth and where the fish are so mix up the depths a little, and then wind quickly, even as fast as you can wind as believe me you will never out wind a salmon or kingie. The faster you wind the more aggressive the fish will be and so will the strike. The soft plastics can be fished in a similar manner however you may not achieve the same casting distances as you will with the metal lures. Plastics such as Squidgy Flick baits in 85mm and 110mm and DOA 4” Jerk Baits are ideal and used with jighead weights anywhere from 1/12thoz right through to 1/4oz depending on conditions. The plastics can be fished a couple of different ways, either letting them sink deeper in the water column and twitching them back if the fish are down deep, erratic jerky retrieves through mid water or like the metal lures fast retrieves across the surface or just below the surface. What the plastics lack in their ability to be cast long distances they make up for in versatility when it comes to retrieves. The final style of lure that I am very impressed with and is producing great catches of salmon as I write this article is the new Maria Duplex series of bibbed hard body lures from Japan. Traditionally bibbed lures are very light and difficult to cast with all but the lightest of casting rods designed for chasing bream and trout, no match for trying to cover distances and target larger fish. However Maria have developed a casting lure designed for just the purpose of chasing salmon, kingfish and small tuna from shore, they are a bibbed lure like a Rapala, come in 2 sizes a 65 mm that weighs 18 gm and a 80 mm that weighs 31 gm allowing them to be cast great distances with more chance of a strike. The Duplex has an excellent wobble and roll action and works well with a high speed retrieving. It is also very effective fished from the beach, it is a sinking lure and it will easily reach the bottom and fished back with an erratic retrieve. The Duplex comes with Owner ST-46 #5 trebles. Rods should be 7-8 foot in length and in the 2-5kg or slightly larger weight category, graphite preferably as they offer lightness and strength as well as the ability to cast the lures being used. Reels in the 2500 to 4000 size are perfect, stick with quality brands such as Shimano ect as they will offer good

warranty periods and high quality components and drags capable of handling bigger fish. For spinning I highly recommend a good braided line, 8-10lb braid should do the job nicely and one of my favourites is the Power Pro brand, its one of the thinnest on the market and also one of the strongest. Being limited to shore fishing doesn’t mean you have to miss out on quality fishing and some good fish are regularly caught form the areas mentioned above so don’t be frightened to give it a shot. Jamie Henderson

Ken Henderson with a couple of nice salmon.

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Fishing News - Page 33

Silver Trevally Daniel Paull

from the Shore

Hooked up on the dropoff. The silver trevally or Pseudocaranx dentex has to be my most favourite and cherished light tackle species in Tasmania. They are just an awesome little fish to catch, especially if you manage to hook one over that magical fifty centimetre mark! Personally, I began targeting the species many years ago on a variety of baits and artificial lures from a small stretch of beach in Georges Bay. At the time, they were the ultimate sports fish, the very thought of

hooking up to one of these fish was enough to keep me saving up for more packets of soft plastics. One of the aspects I really enjoy about targeting trevally is their simplicity to catch. Sure, they aren’t as hard to catch as a big black bream, but at the end of the day, I think everyone would be happy with a large, hard fighting silver trevally. Over the years, I have discovered many trevally holding locations scattered along our coastlines, even up around Burnie! With

their awesome fighting abilities and overall beauty, I can understand why the silver trevally is one of the most popular species Tasmania has to offer.

Silver Trevally The species are predominately a coastal fish that prefer inshore reefs, beaches, bays, estuaries and structure around large current flows. This member of the trevally family is generally grey with a hint of either blue or green depending on their current habitat. The species are also commonly known as white trevally, trevally, blurter, skipjack trevally and silver bream. They usually inhabit the waters south of Brisbane and right round the coast to Geraldton in Western Australia. Tasmania has some excellent trevally fisheries; these include the popular fishing destinations of Georges and Anson’s Bay in the states north east. As most anglers would agree, the silver trevally is one of Tasmania’s most popular sports fish, along with our other more prominent species, the black bream and east Australian salmon. Fishing from the shore just adds another element to catching these species, and in some cases, it is more enjoyable than fishing from a boat!

Locations Finding trevally from the shore is easier than some people may believe, all you really need to find is some good water flow and structure. Silver trevally love structure, especially reefs and rocky points lying adjacent to fast flowing water. Having said this, I have also often caught trevally in still water with very little structure. Weed edges, rock walls, river mouths, wrecks and basically anywhere

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with some broken bottom all make perfect trevally habitat. Regarding dietary matters, I believe that the species will travel and feed wherever there are prey items to be found, including those places where you just wouldn’t expect to find one. These fish are pretty opportunistic predators and will feed on a vast range of small fish, crustaceans and invertebrates. While foraging for small crustaceans such as crabs and prawns, trevally will often sit on the bottom with their heads down, ready to ambush anything that may swim or float past. Generally, when you actually hook up to a fish, your soft plastic or bait will either be floating down or sitting on the bottom. This is probably because the species feed on bottom dwelling prey items. As mentioned before, Georges and Anson’s Bay are real hotspots for silver trevally. If you really want to get into some good fishing, head to one of these two places. I personally fish Georges Bay the most for trevally and they can be pretty thick in there at times. Blanche Point is my most favourite land based destination in the entire system, it is easily assessable and the fishing there is phenomenal, especially for big salmon and trevally. There are a few spots on the north west coast too. Those locations produce fish, just not as big as their east coast cousins. Red Rock, a small rocky outcrop located just outside of Burnie is one of my personal favourites. There is always plenty of trevally around Red Rock to keep you entertained! If you ever venture up to Red Rock, be sure to bring some heavy gear, there can be kingfish there at times.

Techniques and Tackle With the evolution of artificial baits, I find it hard to use anything but soft plastics these days. There are just so many brands on the market that will help you catch silver trevally! As far as soft plastics go, you simply cannot go past anything that imitates a small baitfish or invertebrate. Berkley make an excellent range of trevally catching soft plastics and I believe that they are the best way to go if you are just getting into fishing for this particular species. I don’t say this because I like personally favour Berkley products, I just say it because I know they work! Invertebrate imitations such as the Berkley Gulp 6” Sandworms in Camo, New Penny and Natural and 7” Turtle Back Worms in Green Pumpkin, Pumpkinseed, Camo and Watermellon just cannot be overlooked. Don’t be afraid to use bait fish pattern plastics either, larger fish absolutely love them! Minnow variations could include Yep Flappers in Pearl White, Red Rascal and Smoke Cloud, Berkley Dropshot 3” Minnows in Pearl Watermellon, Pearl Blue, Pearl Olive and Bloodworm. These are all proven trevally catchers!

Jigheads have a very important role to play while you are targeting silver trevally, you must be able to keep your soft plastic in the strike zone. Most people would ponder about how much weight they should have in order to get their plastics into the zone. I actually tend to use pretty heavy jigheads, anything from a 1/16th to a 1/6th oz head. It all really depends on how much tidal flow there is where you are fishing. In really fast water, you really need to be using a suitable weight to get your plastic to the bottom where the fish are. The current will often pick your plastic up and move it around so it always pays to cast up into the flow and wait for it to hit the bottom before you begin your retrieval. In still water, you can get away with using small, light weight jigheads. Because there will be no current, you can leisurely wait for the plastic to hit the bottom. Just remember to make your retrieval slow, just take it easy and the fish will scoff you plastic with no trouble at all. Think about your surroundings, make sure to match a suitable

A good trevally at low tide.

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Fishing News - Page 35

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plastic with a suitable jighead and you should be able to successfully target silver trevally. I have been using a 7’2” SSX Squidgy Spin in the Shimano Starlo Stix range for over a year now and I simply can’t fault it, especially while fishing for trevally. It is light enough to really feel every single bite and it’s strong enough to pull any fish out and away from nasty structure. Shimano make an awesome range of rods to suit every angler, from snapper enthusiasts to tournament anglers. The Catana range is a great example of a cheap, quality rod. You can catch absolutely anything on these rods. I even managed to land my very first kingfish on one! Reels can vary depending on what you are targeting. A quality reel is needed for many saltwater species, including trevally. Both Shimano and Diawa make exceptional thread line and overhead reels. If you are starting out with soft plastics, you would be silly to go past the Shimano Sienna 2500FD, Sedona 2500FD or the Symetre 2500FJ. All three reels are just perfect for trevally, bream and salmon. Match any of these reels with some quality 5lb Hi Vis Yellow PowerPro braid and some 6lb Berkley Vanish fluorocarbon leader and you should be all set to go.

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So with all of that out of the way, I hope you catch a few. Silver trevally are an excellent sports fish, they go like a cut snake and they are pretty good on the chew too if you decide to take one home. They make excellent sashimi, so I am told anyway! Try and be as conservative as you can, make sure to look after your catch even if you are keeping a few. It is known that the species is relatively common in Tasmanian waters, do the right thing though and always remember to limit your kill, don’t kill your limit. The fishing in Tasmania is getting better every year, let’s try and make it last for future generations. Daniel Paull

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Fishing News - Page 37

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28/09/10 3:03 PM

Grasshoppers

the Big Mac of trout food

Many people ask me when the best time to come to Tasmania fishing is. There is only one answer as far as I am concerned – Autumn. March and April are what I call the wedding months. All the girls want to get married then. Why ? Because the weather is the most settled and they are almost guaranteed a beautiful day. I like it because the river fishing can be exception and I like river fishing. Grasshopers have been prolific the last couple of seasons with unprecedented grass growth no doubt helping the populations. Grasshoppers obviously provide a ‘meal in a mouthful’ for river trout – they must be like a Big Mac for them and trout often swim meters to violently scoff one from the surface. From a guides point of view there are many ‘taking candy from babies’ opportunities. The most wayward of casts still gets jumped upon and the takes are often so vigorous that there is no need for a strike as many trout hook themselves. Mostly the solid dumping down deliveries that would scare a Little Pine tailer all the way to Lake Kay are just what is required when hopper fishing. Another pleasant thing that happens to the Tasmanian rivers at hopper time is that the catch rates significantly increase in these months and the average size could almost double. I can think of many creeks and rivers where during the season proper we might catch a dozen a day and the average might be a guides pounder. Come hopper time the daily bag could easily move to a couple of dozen or more and it is not unusual to find plenty of 2 pounders and an occasional fish of 4 or maybe, dare I say it, 5 pounds.

The flies I once read a book by the famous bike rider Lance Armstrong titled ‘It’s not about the bike’. Well at hopper time I can assure you that it is not about the fly. Having said that I am still somewhat

fussy about the design of the fly. For me I want a fly about the right size as the average hopper. Whilst I do catch many on large yellow wing type monsters mostly I prefer a size 12 tan job. I feel it is very important that the fly is heavy. This helps it land with the characteristic ‘PLOP’ that is so obviously music to a trout’s ears. I don’t want a size 14 parachute CDC type fly when I could simply have half an inch of three matches glued to a hook. Why not? Go and carve some hoppers out of the bamboo chopsticks that your local Chinese takeaway gives you. Colour them with waterproof texta and a coat of your clear gloss fingernail polish and glue them onto a size 12 hook. See how you go. Right size, right colour, right shape, heavy, positive buoyancy – just perfect. Rick Keam’s poly hoppers are also about as good as you can get although they are a little light for me and Muzz Wilson’s ‘Wee Creek Hopper’ is a sensationally simple fly too. These days I save my huon pine hoppers for my girlfriend Anna to use and the clients get hastily tied Wee Creeks. Anna is special and the clients don’t know any better anyway!

The Fishing Get yourself a short rod and use a 9 foot fast tapered leader. Learn what a tuck cast is and use plenty of high tip whip to finish the cast. This will put the fly down firmly without much line or leader entry noise. Don’t use much more than a 4 or 5 weight and this helps reduce the line noise too. You just want to hear the plop every time your fly lands. Most takes will come within a second or maybe two of landing so don’t fish a cast more than say 4 or 5 seconds. Search the water at 5 second and 2 metre intervals. Trout can come 2 metres easily in 5 seconds at Big Mac time.

Learn to roll cast well and do a bow and arrow cast. Make sure you come along to one of my casting days if you cannot do any of the casting stuff I am talking about. It will be the best investment that you can make in fly fishing. The great American caster Floyd Dean has a really cool and special Grasshopper cast. This puts the hopper in with super speed and a healthy PLOP (even with a light weight fly) but humps the fast moving fly line up into the air so that it very lightly gravity drops onto the water ever so quietly. I will show you someday. Because of the manner in which you are fishing your way upstream fish will inevitably hear the fly land BEHIND them and turn downstream to fetch it. Once they take the instinct is to turn back to their lie and they are mostly auto hooked on the turn. It’s nice to rarely miss a strike in fly fishing. I suggest that if you ever see a fish move forward in the current to gently sip your free drifting hopper then you are not delivering firmly enough or you are casting at greater than 2 metre intervals. So, if you want to catch lots and maybe some real leviathans get out on your local streams during March and April. Wear gaiters or waders all the time and have some fun. Hopper feeders never fail to put a constant smile on my face. Peter Hayes

www.redtagtrout.com Guided Fly Fishing & Teaching Workshops Specialising in stalking rivers and streams

Quality craftmanship, premium paints and the best products ensure your trophy will last a lifetime P: 0457 449 715 E: mrskinnem@bigpond.com W: www.airbrushedtolife.com

E-mail: roger@redtagtrout.com ph/fax: (03) 6229 5896 Mob: 0419 348 070 All inclusive packages—one day and extended tours

www.tasfish.com - Get the knowledge - Get the fish.

Fishing News - Page 39

Reviews A metallic fleck deep blue embodies the entire blank, complemented by black and gold binds and trimmings. Quality, Pacific Bay components, zirconium ring guides, extra-hard EVA grips and split-butt configurations complete the Revolution series as designed by master rod craftsman, Ian Miller.

Model

NEW

Length (m) Pieces

Line Lure/ Weight (kg) Jig Weight (g)

TCurve Revolution Travel 703 SW Spin

2.13

5-10

10-40

TCurve Revolution Travel 763 SW Spin

2.29

15-24

50-200

TCurve Revolution Travel 904 LB Spin

2.74

6-10

15-50

TCurve Revolution Travel 693 OverHead GP

2.06

10-15

70-150

TCurve Revolution Travel 583 Game Trolling

1.73

15-24

N/A

The Clackin’ Crank is a unique crank bait style lure, an additional member to the famous “Clackin’ Family”; featuring a shad body profile with a depth specific lip design. This particular model, CNC53, stands for Clackin’ Crank 5cm, 3’ deep. Available in 8 X-Rap style colour patterns. The Clackin’ Minnow features a slowsinking minnow body profile with flat sides. The flat sides give this lure a slight modification of the classic Rapala “wounded-minnow” action. Available in 11cm, diving to 1.5m. 10 tantalizing colour patterns.

Why choose a Haines Hunter Why choose a fibreglass boat? Fibreglass is tough and is well proven in a harsh marine environment. just like paint it will fade over time if not cared for but it won’t bubble, blister or corrode. You see plenty of old fibreglass boats around these days. They are still quite serviceable and many of them gain the title ‘Classic’ and a simple cut and polish will revive their lustre. Let’s look at a few things in regard to fibreglass.

Okuma Nova The Nova represents innovation and value – stylishly designed. This reel is the second model developed by Okuma More than just a noisy lure, the Clackin’ that utilizes the blade body design with Series builds on the proven success of the protective bridging for added strength and uniquely designed sound chamber first durability. On top of this unique design, the introduced in 2009 with the Clackin’ Rap. Nova incorporates 5 anti rust ball bearings; The single steel ball and trademark exposed a quick set anti-reverse bearing; Okuma’s GRA22807 v1F Page 4.indd 2 3/12/10 11:25 AM RES II Rotor Equalising System; machined rattle chamber transmit a distinctive clackin’ sound and maximum vibration. aluminium spool machined aluminium soft In union with the translucent bodies, the touch handle, smooth multi disc drag and seductive flash of internal holographic a lightweight graphite body. foil and the legendary Rapala swimming Available in sizes 20, 30, 40, 60 & 80. action, they create a full sensory stimulation All Okuma reels are covered by a Lifetime fish cannot resist. Guarantee.

Rapala Clackin’ Crank & Clackin’ Minnow

Search boatsales.com. auTM anywhere, anytime... Whether it’s new or pre-loved, a jet ski or fishing boat, the boatsales.com.auTM website has all bases covered if you’re looking to spend some quality time on the water. With over 20,000 big brand boats and jet ski’s for sale online, you can get your new and used boat-fix with boatsales.com. auTM anywhere, anytime – thanks to the launch of the boatsales.com.auTM mobile website. Anyone with a Smartphone, Blackberry, iPhone or iPad can now access the boatsales.com.auTM mobile website in an optimised mobile website. This means that users can access all boatsales.com.auTM listings without having to scroll and zoom in or out of a full-sized website, as well as search for new and used boats, news and reviews while on the go. Fishing News - Page 40

boatsales.com.auTM also now has over 2,000 accessories for sale online, covering everything from chandlery and electronics, to fishing and berthing. So now you can deck out your new toy with the very best in new and used boating and marine accessories. We’re a lucky bunch in Australia – we have the worlds best when it comes to readily accessible waterways and beaches. From north to south, east to west, it comes as no surprise that boating is one of our greater passions. So, whether you’re after a new or used trailerable boat or jet ski, the boatsales. com.auTM website makes getting waterready that much easier. It’ll have you browsing up and down the aisles for hours and the best thing is – you can now browse anywhere, anytime on your mobile. Visit www.boatsales.com.au and get browsing!

Contrary to what some will tell you it is not fragile. Of course it will scratch and mark or chip, but it will not dent, rip or tear. And it takes a mighty impact to hole a fibreglass boat mostly they will deform and spring back to shape with the integrity of the hull in place. Even if it does sustain a hole it can be easily repaired, temporarily if needed then permanently, retaining all the original strength. Often fibreglass boats are heavier than an equivalent tinny, but in many boats this can often be an advantage offering a softer ride. Typically the smaller boat market is dominated by alloy boats due to types of usage, and very light boats can be made from aluminium.

The owner of Haines Hunter, John Haber explains construction methods to Hadley Deegan and Wayne Chilcott.

High performance and smooth sexy lines are just one reason to choose a Haines Hunter.

Intricate mouldings, both on the exterior and interior are easily obtained using fibreglass.

A well made fibreglass boat will provide many years of service, they keep on going without a drama. Many owners of old Haines Hunters simply repower their favourite boat and keep going for many more years.

Complex hull shapes are easily obtained. Smooth sexy lines and a high standard of finish and appearance, along with a quiet and comfortable ride is one of the biggest reason to choose a fibreglass boat. Designers often want several different aspects within one hull. The wish list might be easy planing, stability at rest, dry ride, good sea performance and low power requirements. Designing these things into a hull requires complex shapes and being able to build a boat with those characteristics is (generally) only possible with fibreglass. Gentle, or severe curves, chines and strakes can be built into a mould and then reproduced exactly many hundreds of times. The complex shape of most fibreglass hulls does allow designers to build what most boaties want – a soft, comfortable ride, with good stability at rest. Of course many things need to be considered when purchasing the right boat for you But in most cases a fibreglass boat should be compared and seriously considered.

www.tasfish.com - Get the knowledge - Get the fish.

We Take Tasmania Boating

Ready to Tow ‘n’ Go

Ready now for game fishing and fun

625 ProFis0h

585 R

Was $87 40

Was $77 700

Now $81 400

Now $71 900 585 R - In stock and ready to go. Delivering superior performance and handling, the versatile R-Series is Haines Hunter’s most popular range. The low-profile cabin inherent in every R model adds to its sporty feel and allows greater vision at the helm, without compromising valuable cockpit space for maximum fishability. With a length of 6.00m and beam of 2.4m this high-performance boat has true ‘go anywhere, do anything’ abilities. From offshore fishing to exhilarating watersports, it excels on all fronts.

WANT A BOAT FOR GAME SEASON? We have plenty of boats in stock right now - ready to Tow ‘n’ Go. Check out our extensive range now.

625 ProFish - Family and Fishing

The 625 ProFish has been designed purely for fishing with the ability to accept single or twin engine applications. As a bare bones packages it’s ready to head offshore to chase pelagic species, or option it up to create a comfortable family boat. We have this model in stock now ready to go for summer. Features include two tone hull, boarding ladder, folding sst rocket launcher, fibreglass bait board, plumbed live bait tank, deck wash, clip in carpet, bimini, VHF radio, Lowrance HDS-7 sonar/chart plotter, boat and trailer rego, anchor kit, fire extinguisher, flare kit and more. Throw in a tandem trailer with alloy wheels and hydraulic brakes, 175 HP Honda 4 stroke and polished stainless steel prop and you have one spectacular boat ready for anything you can through at it. Drive away today and save $6000 - NOW $81 400. Finance available.

Fifty years of boat building

Seven year hull warranty

Drawing on over half a century of boat manufacturing experience, Haines Hunter has a deserved reputation as the most respected fibreglass boat brand in the Southern Hemisphere.

Only premium quality materials and fittings are used throughout and all hulls are backed by a full seven-year structural warranty.

More than 24 models

With over two dozen trailerable models – from dedicated fishing boats to family/cruising and sports boats – in its award-winning range, the build quality and attention-to-detail in every Haines Hunter boat is second to none.

Excellence in all areas

Setting the benchmark to which all other manufacturers aspire, Haines Hunter’s reputation for excellence stems from its unwavering focus on research and development, cutting-edge design, advanced construction techniques and unparalleled on-water performance.

Deegan’s commitment is to provide Tasmania with the most competitive deals, and service you can count on from a locally owned company that has been taking Tasmanian’s boating for over 30 yrs.

See us now for the best deal on your new Haines Hunter

We Take Tasmania Boating www.tasfish.com - Get the knowledge - Get the fish.

Fishing News - Page 41

Reviews Berkley Fireline Tournament Exceed Berkley ’s constantly advancing technology in textiles and fibres has allowed exciting developments to occur within the fishing line segment, in particular, braid lines. Fireline Tournament Exceed fills the needs of cutting edge tournament techniques that demand the highest performance braided lines. Tournament Exceed’s Incredibly Thin Diameter improves casting distance, provides greater contact and control for subtle detection of structure and strikes, delivers superior lure performance, improves drag capability and increases reel capacity. This is the Next Generation in Fused braid technology.

Honda outboard range BLASTs off Honda’s revolutionary Boosted Low Speed Torque (BLAST™) system is now featured in every model from the compact BF40 right through to the classleading BF225. Making its debut in the BF75/90 in 2006, BLAST was developed to improve acceleration at lower speeds. Activated by sharp throttle movement, the air/fuel ratio ignition timing control technology results in powerful hole shot performance to get boats on the plane quicker.

“The engine’s Electronic Command Unit (ECU) determines throttle opening during acceleration and advances the ignition timing to develop more horsepower at low revs.

them a pure pleasure to fish with. Whether you want to fish tournaments at the most competitive level or simply enjoy fishing with the best – give yourself the best fighting chance and fish with a Stella.

“A quick movement of the throttle control lever activates BLAST, aggressively advancing the ignition curve, while upon slow advancement of the throttle a mild ignition spark advance curve is initiated and the engine operates as normal.”

* X-Ship

During acceleration, the air/fuel ratio goes to a richer setting. At that point, the ECU – receiving information from the throttle sensor and other engine sensors – determines the best spark advance by tracing the ignition timing for best air/fuel ratio. “The boost in horsepower and torque at low revs contributes to very strong acceleration from 0-50m to get boats on the plane very quickly, something which was traditionally considered a weak point of four-stroke outboards,” Mr Harvey said. “Combining incredible out-of-the-hole performance with all the benefits of Honda’s advanced four-stroke technology, BLAST has changed attitudes towards fourstroke outboards the world over.” BLAST is available in Honda’s BF40, BF50, BF60, BF75, BF90, BF115, BF135, BF150, BF175, BF200 and BF225.

Shimano Stella FE Spinning Reels The Stella range has always been synonymous with the terms quality and perfection - exhibiting thoroughbred performance and elegant aesthetics to match.

Honda Australia assistant marine service manager Stephen Harvey said the patented BLAST technology was the global benchmark for four-stroke outboard engine design. “In a nutshell, BLAST makes available the greatest amount of torque at the precise moment it’s required,” Mr Harvey said.

The FE series feature Shimano’s most advanced and latest technologies – creating a reel that is unrivalled in its class. Featuring X-Ship, Paladin Gear Durability Enhancement, Propulsion Line Management System, AeroWrap II Oscillation system, lightweight magnesium frame and side plate, waterproof drag, Fluidrive II, Dyna-Balance and Super Stopper II. Each model’s diminutive weight and silky smooth operation make

Complete Soft Plastics Combo Value

.99

Spooled with braid

Berkley Challenger Soft Plastics Combo The ultimate soft plastic starter kit. Features an IM6 graphite rod, 3 ball bearing reel, spooled with braid, PLUS a tackle box including leader, jigs, soft baits, crank bait and instructional DVD.

Rack n Rock plastics combo 6’8” 2 pc 3-5kg Flats n Finesse plastics combo 7’ 2pc 2-4kg

* Paladin Gear Durability Enhancement * Propulsion Line Management System * Aero Wrap II * SW Concept * Shielded A-RB Bearings * Rigid Support System * Waterproof Drag * Maintenance Port * Dyna-Balance * Ultra-light Saltwater SafeMagnesium frame * Super Stopper II Model

STL1000FE NEW

STL2500FE NEW

STL3000FE NEW

STL4000FE NEW

5.0:1

6.0:1

6.2:1

Retrieve Per Crank (cm)

Max Drag (kg)

3/119, 4/91, 5/78

4/155, 5/137, 5/110

4/201, 5/169, 5/137

5/183, 6/155, 7/137

Retrieve Ratio

Capacity (kg/metres) Power Pro Capacity (lb/metres)

10/78, 15/82

10/137, 15/143

10/183, 20/126

15/256, 30/156

Bearings

13+1

Weight (grams)

170

227

230

269

Shimano TCurve Revolution Travel Series Featuring the “Original” TCurve blank technology utilising a unique, 3 ply graphite weave construction with a proprietary resin curing process. This ensures Shimano Tcurve rods are so light yet durable and powerful enough to cope with Australian saltwater species. The “Revolution Travel” series aims to deliver a variety of high quality rods anglers worldwide can travel with anywhere in the world with light / medium to heavy saltwater actions and line classes in a mixture of 3 piece or 4 piece configuration.

GRA22807 v1F Page1.indd 1

3/12/10 11:29 AM

Buy 4 lures get 1 FREE! 25% OFF ALL Plano tackle storage

Shakespeare PVC thigh waders

$35

Neoprene Chest waders

$129

Purchase any advertised Product and receive bonus “Berkley Atomic Teasers” valued at $5.95 29 Kingsway Launceston 7250 Ph: 6334 9723 Fishing News - Page 42

www.tasfish.com - Get the knowledge - Get the fish.

Shark Refuge Areas

RECREATIONAL SEA FISHERIES NEWS

Shark Refuge Areas have been set aside in Tasmanian waters to protect sharks, particularly school and gummy sharks. Fishing is restricted in these sheltered habitats so sharks can breed and raise their young.

Focus on Shark Fishing

No shark, skate or ray other than elephantfish can be taken in Shark Refuge Areas and recreational fishing gear restrictions apply. The use of set lines and mullet nets is prohibited and where permitted, gillnets may only be set for up to 2 hours.

Why Sharks are Special Sharks are the top predators in our marine ecosystems. They are highly vulnerable to overfishing because they are long lived, slow to mature and produce fewer offspring compared with other fish. Sharks play an important role in our oceans by cleaning up dead and dying marine species.

Key coastal embayments in Tasmania with known important habitat critical to the breeding of sharks and rays which have been declared as Shark Refuge Areas are: • Port Sorell

How Many Sharks are Caught?

• River Tamar • Georges Bay

The estimated number of sharks and rays caught by recreational fishers during 2007-08 was 41 000. Of these, 32 000 (78%) were released and only 9 000 were retained. Sharks and rays are one of the main species caught by gillnetting although hook and line fishing is also common.

• Great Oyster Bay • East Coast Waters (between Seaford Pt and Cape Bougainville) • Mercury Passage • Blackman Bay

The main reason that sharks and rays tend to be released is because of the poorer eating qualities of some species such as dogfish and draughtboard shark. The other reason is that fishing rules in Shark Refuge Areas don’t allow sharks to be retained.

• Pitt Water • Frederick Henry and Norfolk Bay • Derwent River • D’Entrecasteaux Channel

Catch and Possession Limits

Whilst there are no declared Shark Refuge Areas in the North West, there are a number of bays that may be important for breeding, so it’s important that you fish responsibly. Stick to the size and possession limit and consider the gear that you use.

There are size, possession and boat limits which apply when fishing for sharks. There are also restrictions on gear, fishing areas and the type of bait which can be used. School and gummy sharks have a minimum legal size of 750mm or 450mm if headed and tailed. The combined possession limit is 2 sharks.

There is a boat limit of 5 sharks and rays combined including school and gummy sharks but excluding elephantfish. Elephantfish are not included in the boat limit but still have a possession limit of 2 per person.

30 hooks and no more than 90 hooks are used on the line. Also, no more than 120 hooks can be set and no more than 4 set lines may be on a vessel. Licence holders using set lines must be present when the line is set and retrieved. Both longlines and droplines should be clearly marked with your licence number and the letters “LL” for longline and “DL” for dropline on the marker buoys. The buoys used must be at least 195cm in diameter.

Protected Sharks and Rays The following sharks and rays are protected: White Shark (known as Great White or White Pointer Shark), Maugean Skate, Grey Nurse Shark, Megamouth Shark and Whale and Basking Sharks. If encountered, they must be returned to the water.

Shark Finning Rules When catching and retaining sharks in Tasmania, you must leave the following fins attached until you have landed them.

Shown above: White Shark, Mako, Seven Gilled Shark and Smooth Stingray below.

Gear Sharks are often caught using hooks either with a rod and line or a set line. A set line is either a longline or a dropline with up to 30 hooks attached which can be left unattended. Set lines are not permitted in Shark Refuge Areas. People possessing or using set lines must have a recreational sea fishing licence specifying set lines. Be aware that although you are allowed to use up to 30 hooks on a set line, the more hooks you use, the more likely you are to potentially exceed your bag limit and waste fish. Remember that you are responsible for what you catch, so try to limit the number of hooks on your line if there is a risk of overcatching. Only one set line may be used by a licence holder, however in waters of more than 150 metres depth, more than three licence holders can join their lines together provided no person uses more than

The dorsal and pectoral fins must remain attached to all shark until they are landed. You can remove some other fins to assist with bleeding. If you remove the head of a school or gummy shark, then it must measure at least 450mm from the back of the gill slit to the start of the tail. These rules about shark finning were introduced to abide by international agreements to help prevent the illegal trade in valuable shark fins and to ensure that sharks are handled responsibly. The rules apply to all recreational and commercial fishers.

Abalone Virus Update

When cleaning your catch, be mindful of fish waste and how you dispose of it. Shark heads and frames take some time to decompose so dispose of them in a responsible manner either by returning them to deeper water or at an appropriate refuse disposal area.

A reminder that recreational abalone divers should remain on the lookout for any signs of Abalone Viral Ganglioneuritis (AVG) in wild abalone following a recent outbreak on the East Coast. An abalone farm and a nearby processor are now subject to biosecurity restrictions.

www.tasfish.com - Get the knowledge - Get the fish.

Fishing News - Page 43

LOOK DEEPER INTO FOURSTROKE You’ll discover that Mercury has the widest range of FourStrokes on the market. That are quick, reliable, fuel efficient, quiet, and backed by a warranty that goes deeper than the rest.

mERcURy

E-TEc

mERcURy

E-TEc

bIg ON PERFORmaNcE

SOUND OF SILENcE

0-48kmh acceleration under heavy load Mercury 90hp FourStroke beat Evinrude 90hp E-Tec by 3.9 seconds and Yamaha 90hp by 1.8 seconds.

Mercury 90hp FourStroke is 65% quieter than Evinrude 90hp E-Tec & 21% quieter than the Yamaha 90hp at idle.

For more engine performance comparisons and to locate your nearest dealer visit www.mercurymarine.com.au

WARRANTY REWARD

Source: Mercury Marine Engineering Dept -December 2005. Test conducted on a 16.5’ aluminium fishing boat using a Mercury 90hp FourStroke, an Evinrude 90hp E-TEC and a Yamaha 90hp EFI Fourstroke.

Port Sorell Marine 7 Club Drive Shearwater, Port Sorell Phone: 03 6428 7124 Fishing News - Page 44

Channel Marine Services Lot 10 Gemalla Road, Margate Phone: 03 6267 1456

www.tasfish.com - Get the knowledge - Get the fish.

C.J. Marine Pty Ltd 8 Legana Park Drive, Legana Phone 03 63302277

At this stage, there are no new restrictions on the recreational take of abalone. However, area closures may be implemented as a control measure if necessary. For information about the existing closure of some northern Bass Strait islands to lower the risk of AVG entering from Victoria, go to www.fishing.tas.gov.au

What are the signs of AVG? • The most likely sign is abalone that are weak and/or dead. • In some abalone, you may see: protusion of the mouth part; and/or edges of the foot curling inwards, leading to exposure of clean shiny shells; and/or abalone showing signs of stiffness, commonly referred to as ‘hardfoot’ or ‘hardfish’.

What to do if you see any sick abalone • Collect some whole abalone in the shell in a sealed plastic bag or container and record the exact location where the samples were collected. • Refrigerate but do not freeze any samples. • Contact the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment’s Disease Watch Hotline 1800 675 888 (24 hours free call). • Avoid moving to another dive site as this could spread the disease. Return to land and decontaminate all equipment.

Reviews

How to keep your abalone fishing gear clean

Glas Beachmaster surf rod

By thoroughly cleaning surfaces and removing organic material that may harbour the virus, you can prevent the spread of aquatic diseases including AVG. Wash gear thoroughly – wash wetsuits with a wetsuit wash preparation and fresh water or with a mild soap or shampoo. Tanks, buoyancy vests, regulators and masks that have not come in direct contact with abalone can be washed down with soap-free fresh water. Equipment that has come into contact with abalone including catch bags, gloves, knives and measuring devices should be soaked in soapy fresh water for 30 minutes and then rinsed. All equipment should be allowed to dry, preferably in the sun, before re-use. Wash boats thoroughly with fresh water and detergent away from the shore. Though there are no human health implications from handling or eating abalone infected with AVG which is known to only affect abalone species, people who have had contact with abalone should wash their hands with soap and water.

Rapala X-Rap Magnum “Aussie Special Series” Rapala X-Rap Magnum deep divers have resulted in World Records around the globe. Well known as an Australian favourite when it comes to bluewater trolling, X-Rap Magnums are now available in specialised Australian bait imitations – these lure patterns are found nowhere else in the world! Exclusive colours include Gold Scad, Brown Squid & Red Bait; available in 10, 15, 20 & 30ft versions. On top of this, Rapala have also released an attractive Purple Mackerel which features the signature “Rapala Magnum Mackerel” design. The massive bib diving-lip takes the X-Rap Magnum deep... unassisted. Nothing to hinder the action, just pure Rapala attraction at 10-30 feet, dependent on lure size. These big-fish lures can be run up to 13 knots for game fish worldwide, and like all Rapala lures, they run perfect out of the box. Grab one of these exclusive colours now to secure your shot at a World Record!

Sherriff Agencies have just received stocks of the popular GLAS Beachmaster Surf Rods in a 13’ 3 piece model. 13’ Model RRP $92.50 Glass Compound Structure. Sturdy wooden butt end sand spike. 3 piece for travel inside average family sedan. Classy translucent yellow glass finish. 16’ Model also available RRP $99.90 Sherriff Agencies also have stocks of the popular Red Head Squid Jig designed for pro fishermen at a price amateurs can now afford to pay.

YOSHIKAWA Jigs Available in sizes 3.5 & 4.0 and tested in local waters. Swivel to avoid twisted line. Hard body with pearl finish. RRP $9.95. Rod and Jigs from leading Pro Tackle stores.

Need more information? • Get a copy of the Recreational Sea Fishing Guide from Service Tasmania; • visit www.fishing. tas.gov.au; or • subscribe online to have fishing news information updates emailed.

« « « «

• Phone 1300 368 550 or 03 6233 7042

AAA Rating

Located on the shores of the Great Lake - the gateway to Tasmania’s central plateau and over 3,000 lakes. • Lounge with library, private bar, two open fire places and a restaurant/dining area plus conference room. • Hearty home-cooked meals, soups, delicious deserts and a superb collection of Tasmanian and mainland wines. • A traditional meeting place for keen fly fishers discussing the hatch on Little Pine or the big one you bagged over

a cold beer or a warming glass of wine around the fireplace. • Private lake where you can brush up on your fly casting with a lesson or two from our trout guide or maybe even tangle the 2 to 4 lb wily browns, that cruise the edges! The room facilities include ensuite bathrooms, heating, electric blankets, fridge, TV and tea and coffee making facilities, with wader hanging racks outside.

Relax in Comfort at Central Highland Lodge Ph: 03 62 598 179 www.centralhighlandslodge.com.au Fishin

g Sea

World class fishing in the heart of the central highlands

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

(03) 6289 0111 info @tarraleah.com www.tarraleah.com

cosy wood fires

wine & whisky tasting

www.tasfish.com - Get the knowledge - Get the fish.

guided fishing trips

great pub

Fishing News - Page 45

son

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

Tackle and Supplies

St Helens

STORAGE SHEDS Work from Here or Store from Here

Outboards / Sterndrives / Service and Repairs www.seancosseymarine.com.au

BURNIE MARINE Services

• Over 30 years experience on all types of motors • Approved 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

The options are endless. Fabulous 10x6m brand new sheds with wash bay facilities and super up to date security. Close to the bay or ocean and the sunny East Coast Township of St Helens these sheds will have toilet facilities installed on the grounds enabling them to be used to work from. If you have a special toy that needs storing or you would like to start that exciting new business then here’s the place for you.

Contact Annie Plummer Shop 2 / 10 Cecilia Street, St Helens TAS 7216 Phone: 03 6376 2249 Mobile: 0488 599 207 www.HarcourtsTasmania.com.au

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

Top Service – Top Price The Tamar’s fishing authority For the very best advice on fishing the Tamar River and surrounding area call in and see Sarah and Damon Sherriff. For the best range of fishing tackle and watersport gear in the Tamar Valley. Open: 9 - 5.30 weekdays 9 - 1 Saturday

44 Macquarie St George Town Ph: 6382 2373

Boat building and repairs

Aluman

Engineering MOONSHINE CHARTERS

St Helens Your every need catered for • Eight en-suite cabins • Convenience store • Hot takeaways • Groceries • Newspapers • Boat parking • Fuel • Bait and tackle • Boat and car wash

Hillcrest Tourist Park & Mini Market

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

100 Chimney Heights Rd. St Helens 6376 3298

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 Michael Haley 0419 353 041 mhaleycharters@bigpond.com www.breamfishing.com.au Fishing News - Page 46

www.tasfish.com - Get the knowledge - Get the fish.

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the Tasman Peninsula is not a place for novice kayakers. Safety gear: A marine VHF radio is especially handy, and I 28252_barton routinely car r y an stud_60x55fl 15/3/07 3: EPIRB, flares, whistle, paddle float, strobe light Advertise here for $77. Contact Quenton Higgs (for my own epileptic marine disco), map, Fish compass and a GPS. I Tasmania barely ever usefrom them, the secluded but its comforting to know they are all there. Fishing gear: A Launceston’s Only Authorised handline is much cheaper than a rod and reel and seems to work fine for Self-contained accommodation for 6 people this type of game fishing A dream fulfilled and thankful to be on hard ground again. on the Macquarie River, Northern Tasmania providing you have a Handline P: 6398 5114 F: 6398 5170 trolling for bluefin from a kayak is not easy, but is way to securely attach it, achievable as the author shows. and plenty of line (I use Dealer and Service Centre Endurance: You might need to stockpile some patience, about 300m of 37 kilo mono). Don’t forget your gloves. Include a couple of lures that swim well at kayaking speeds, ideally fitted since the reality is you’ll be slow and with only one lure out with long heavy mono traces. A gaff, knife and club to pacify your chances are low compared to other boats. But when the fish are all potentially useful. You’ll need plenty of water your time finally arrives.... its hard to imagine any other fishing experience coming close. Best of luck out there. and high energy food to keep paddling for hours. Bluefin tuna from a kayak, it is indeed possible. Nick Gust 8 Legana Park Drive

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.95 and I began to Other Tasmanian $49loss, helped gradually ease the line $39.90 kayak fishin gain control of the fight as it tired from towing me. Kayak-fishing is rapidly gaining popula After 15 minutes I was surprised to see its silvery around Australia. With appropriate equipm flashes only metres below the kayak. experience and favourable weather Tasmania ho • Rods • Reels • Tackle Although the fight itself went smoothly and many diverse and exciting opportunities for ka ROD HOLDER OR far more rapidly than imagined, getting it onto the fishing. Taswegians • Fishing advice • Tackle RAIL MOUNare T getting in on the act with kayak, killing it and lashing it down by myself was first AV kayak-fi shing tournament held at Scaman AILABLE advice Kitchen and • theRod/reel Tessellated repairs (or tiled) Pavement. You another thing altogether. I developed octopus envy; earlier this year. (see issue 85 for details). Kay will be impressed by the drama of these geological • Gift vouchers • Trout a few extra arms would have been very handy. My fishing has a rich historical legacy, particularly w wonders, sculpted by Mother Nature over millions Y keep it out DUTto VYlines HEA paddle was stashed under deck licences • Local bait of years. indigenous people from the arctic, while the mod GAFF of the way during the fi ght. Since the A mere 15 minutes south by car the history of version typically associated with exploring c GE is BAI $129.00 gaff was also LAR T BOA RD Shop G37 Eastlands tied off to the edge deck line I chose not to use it Tasmania’s convict past comes alive at the former $9 TRE 9.9 ME 0 waters from open sit-on top plastic kayaks. T 1.8 380 Pirates Bay Drive penal settlement of Port Arthur andinother historical case the fish charged off and its leverage instantly growing sport enables quiet, peaceful and afford Shopping Centre Eaglehawk Neck sites on the Tasman Peninsula. pulled me in. Instead I tried grabbing it by the tail trips into beautiful fishing spots, particularly riv Toll free 1800 639 532 (03) 6250 3262 Rosny Nearby Park you can Ph:6244 also indulge in2011 sports pastimes withand my right hand while clinging desperately to the lakes and sheltered coastlines. www.lufrahotel.com or lufrareception@bigpond.com like deep sea fishing, surfing, and trace bushwalking, or while simultaneously pinning the with my left, visit other nearby attractions like wildlife parks and reel under my left elbow. Despite getting a good grip Kayak game fishing clobber The Lufra - close to all the (fishing) wineries. HALCO LAZER PRO 190 tuna thrashed away, surging off twice in a spray action $18 The Lufra Hotel offers comfortable the accommodation Many of the.90 techniques used in kayak fishing It is no exaggeration to say the Tasman Peninsula in a range of rooms and self-catering units of foam and whipping line. A change of strategy as well as a essentially the same as those used on other fish is truly remarkable with possibly the best sport fishing, limited number of “fishermen’s rooms” at was required. Eventually I got a hand inside the boats. The difference is in the set-up, how e very affordable highest sea cliffs, outstanding diving in giant underwater rates. operculum and a solid grip beneath its gills, which piece RAP ALA X-RAP 30 of equipment $34.95 is fitted to the kayak, and h kelp forests, renowned fine food producers, Australia’s Additional car parking development allows substantial allowed me to tilt the kayak and drag it on board. each activity is carried out on such a small cra leading convict site and some of country’s best bush car and boat parking. Our licensed restaurant and bistro I killed it with a knife and bled the fish to preserve suggest giving it some decent thought and set walks. restaurant are complemented by a games/recreation KILLER VIBE 160 the meat. Unfortunately there is not much room on yourself .90 particularly if game fish up$22 carefully, Situated at Eaglehawk Neck, and just one hour room, TV/lounge area with open fireplace, café/coffee a kayak, and with it lying virtually on top of me I For anyone entertaining the notion of tuna fish from Hobart, The Lufra provides relaxed affordable shop and two bars. ended up awash in blood. Luckily no seals or sharks from a sea kayak, I recommend considering accommodation close to Port Arthur and natural Australian aviation pioneer and tourism entrepreneur MERIDIAN DEMON seemed tothe have noticed the commotion or come to following attractions and is ideally located as the on base for you Sir Reginald Ansett is reputed to have described Self contained farm cottages things. Lufra $39.95 investigate their options. All that was left now was tothe enjoybanks many activities, sitting as it does at the narrow Hotel as “the hotel with the best view in the world.” No Speed: Not to snort, but to achieve. You’ll n Built in 1835 and situated in the heart of the Macquarie River isthmus which connects the Forestier and Tasman wonder there has been an accommodation an 8 kmhouse paddleon with a 30 kilo bluefin lashed a fairly quick and sea worthy sea kayak that is of historic ithome is one of theTAMAR oldest hotels in 6-8 WEST ROAD, LAUNCESTON, TASMANIA 7250 Peninsulas. Visit the Lufra and you’ll share more than the same site for more than 150 years.to the deck. The Hemingway dream was realised and6188 PHONE (03) 6331 FAX (03) 63342681 trained and obeys your commands. Australia still operating, and surrounded by the beautiful a stunning view because the area abounds in manyLouise & The Lufra Archer Hotel the grin has barely left my Phone face . & Mail Orders Richard Macquarie and Elizabeth rivers. • Open seven days a week attractions — both natural and made-made — all within welcomed We accept... 380 Pirates Bay Drive PH 03 6391 1251 easy driving or walking distance. for lunch and dinner • Stay the night in one ofour Australia FREE Outside waterfront Eaglehawk Neck TRADING and fishing store. Close to the hotel are several amazing rock formations PARKING Email info@brickendon.com.au HOURS 63815445 oldest Hotels • Phone forboating enquires orStay bookings. Toll free 1800 639 532 (03) 6250 3262 and Fish the Penins

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it out for mys enquires with Tasmanian frie Rex and Sue M Safety Cove Be highly recomm So after a peninsula from beautiful land little villages I Safety Cove greeted and obviously kee I strolled dow not twenty me and was joine a cold beer a plans. As I gazed Fishing News - Page 47 My Stay at Sea B&B knowledge - Get the Change fish. clear waters at the swirling kelp fo My name is Nick and I recently visited Tasmania for along the cliffs of safety cove, out to Ta

Fishing News - Page 11 Sea Change Cove WWW.TASFISH.COM - Over 850 stories online. Get the knowledge–get theSafety fish. continental breakfast or Bed and Breakfast and $65 pp with hot breakfast. Self-Contained absolute waterfront accommodation. Premier location to start · 66 Stylish Rooms your fishing holiday. · CBD Location • Breathtaking views of Tasman island, · Affordable Rates Cape Pillar and 50 steps away Safety Cove Beach. · Conference Rooms • Beautiful gardens and decks with barbeques all overlooking the ocean. · FREE Parking · FREE Movies • Central to all the activities on the Tasman Peninsula · FREE Fitness Room • Five minutes from the Port Arthur Historic site. · Wireless Broadband • Golf course and Tasman National Park. · Three Steps on George• See all activities on web site http://www.portarthurtasmania.net/ or fishing at Heritage Bar - Restaurant http://www.portarthurtasmania.net/fishing.htm www.colonialinn.com.au Great specials on at the moment see www.safetycove.com where you can book online or Phone 03 62502719 or email: safetycove@bigpond.com Contact Rex and Sue Mapley today Ph: 6331 6588

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Issue 90 February - March 2011

Small Streams Dawn ‘n’ Dusk Game Fishing Tenkara Rods Silver Trevally Hopper Time Sharks

Lucy Trinca loves hopper time - more on page 39.

a kayak

WIN a Feelfree Moken 10 kayak. FREE to enter. Go to www.tasfish.com - Tasmania’s biggest fishing website. Drawn Feb 28. Kayak details page 25.

WWW.TASFISH.COM - Win

Print Post approved; PP 702512 00027