Tasmanian Fishing and Boating News Issue 102 2013 February

Issue 102 February - March 2013

Full of c i t s a t n Fa Fishing

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Trout Flathead Game Fishing Spinning basics Burnie - Red Rock Bream Classic Report Tackle Reviews Cormorants

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Fly Tying

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5

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34 37

Hoppers — Gavin Hicks

4

Flathead - Back to basics — Todd Lambert

6

BIG Spinning Reels — Kelly Hunt

10

Lake Mackenzie — Shane Flude

12

Spinning – River fishing basics — Adrian Webb

15

Flies from Mick Hall

18

Red Rock – Burnie’s hot spot — Daniel Paull

20

Worldy Wise – Lessons learned — Craig Rist

24

New Products and Reviews

31

Tasmanian Bream Classic – Report

34

Jan’s Flies — Jan Spencer

36

Cormorants — Daniel Hackett

37

Game Fishing Report — Kelly Hunt

39

Marine Fishery News

40

Inland Fishery News

41

Fishing, boating and accommodation services directory

42

My Say Rumours really annoy me. And these arise in fishing through sheer laziness.

On a web forum recently was a rumour that Four Springs Lake was going to have a bag limit of one and bait fishing would be banned. And apparently it had been put forward by the Trout Guides, it was supposedly in the minutes of Anglers Alliance Tasmania and supported by IFS. Then a few joined in with their rant. It was ridiculous.

A phone call or an email to IFS, AAT and the Guides Association would have revealed that none of this had been proposed or considered by any of those parties.

What the minutes of AAT did say was “Four Springs sustainability of harvest is being assessed and may result in a bag limit review.” This was from a report by John Diggle - IFS Director.

These minutes can be read at www. anglersalliance.org.au So, my point is, if, or when you hear a rumour call the interested party. It may be Sea Fisheries 62 333 523, Inland Fisheries 6261 8050 or 1300 INFISH,

Anglers Alliance Tasmania - Executive Officer Denis Edwards 6225 2679 and I guarantee you will get an answer either immediately or it will be followed up.

I do have an interest in this as I am Chair of AAT and on the Inland Fisheries Advisory Committee. You can phone me as well 0418 129949.

It is my observation that forums are fabulous most often, but occasionaly are hijacked by those with little to do, but cause trouble.

It is the very reason we don’t have a forum on www.tasfish.com If you have any suggestions, concerns or queries put them forward anytime.

That is my rant over.

Fishing - in general has been difficult with much more wind than we would normally expect. It appears as though the next to months will herald in some great weather and fishing wll be great in both our lakes and off shore.

The rivers will be prime for some grasshopper fishing so get into it.

Mike Stevens

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

Fax: 6331 1378 Email; mike@tasfish.com Phone: 0418 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; 100003074

For subscriptions go to www.tasfish.com or phone Mike 0418 129 949 One year $36 - two years $70

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Fishing News - Page 3

Big hoppers

small rods

Gavin Hicks

W

e all love the onset of summer, don’t we?

Warm weather, cold beer and of course dry fly polaroiding for trout. But it’s not only the highland polaroiding that gets me excited at this time of year, because it is also closing in on hopper time on my favourite local streams.

As you wander the edge of your secret stream hotspot take a look in the long dry grass as you go, if you are kicking out a few of the resident grasshoppers then its time for a change of fly boxes.

Tuck away that nymph/dry box and bring out the one loaded with big, fat foam flies. I guess you can also have some other hopper style patterns in there as well if you wish, not every fly has to have some foam in it, does it?.

Another bonus at hopper time is the standard of fish you can come across in your favourite stream.

You might be surprised what you will pull out of that deep pool or undercut bank, so it pays to always be on the job. The big trout love the sight of a fat, juicy hopper as much as we do as anglers, and you can bet in the heat of a midday sun just as the mind starts to wander back to previously mentioned cold beer that small stream fish of a lifetime will thump your hopper on the surface and stitch you up before you can say Boags Red.

Where and when Most rivers will have some sort grasshopper action on them to varying degrees, but there a few different things that can help turn those good summer days into great ones. Plenty of open stretches of bank with that long dry grass around the edges wont go astray, though sometimes thinking about it these can be hard to find with the ever present, stream hugging willows about. But I am sure you know of some somewhere. Throw in the odd deeper pool to hold that beer destroying thumper and you are nearly good to go.

All we need now is some hot, windy summer weather which there is plenty of at the moment and its time to go. One other added bonus of this type of fishing that I forgot to mention is the fact that the prime action isn’t usually till in the afternoon, so there is no need for early morning alarms and kamikaze car rides in the darkness dodging all manner of Tasmanian wildlife. Relax, sleep in a while then get up and go fishing.

Small stream tactics My favourite type of hopper fishing is on the smaller streams around my home town on the North-west coast of Tasmania. Though I find it harder and harder to drag myself off the Mersey River to fish other streams these days, it is the hoppers that will do it. Not that Mersey isn’t good at this time of year its just that I love to be on a small water, fishing a short rod and big fly when the hoppers come out to play.

The place I really love to do this is on my home town creek, the Redwater. Redwater creek sneaks its way down thru the centre of my beautiful Nan’s place just out of town. It was here as kids we first encountered trout/grasshopper interaction. In the bridge pool down the road a bit lived what we thought at the time to be a massive brown trout.

Looking back now it appears as though that trout may have just been an average size fish for this water, don’t you love the minds of children!. My cousin and I used to spend quite a bit of time up on the road bridge dropping all manner of insects to this fish, but it was the grasshoppers that got the most attention. Standing up there in the bright summer sun we would be amazed at the speed and skill of this fish as he would come out and snatch our offerings from the surface. Maybe that was where one of the seeds was sown for my current, and what will be a lifelong addiction to fishing for trout with a fly-rod.

The Redwater is only a very small stream, in some places not much more than shoulder width wide. I like to fish this and other waters similar to it by wading up the middle. In some places it can get a bit tight, but I believe you get a far better shot at the fish this way and you also cover a lot more water. My rod of choice is made from fibreglass and is only 5’ 9” long. It is a Vision three weight.

I love the slow, relaxed rhythm that casting this rod brings and the short length is perfect for sneaking shots in to those tight undercut spots where the bigger fish like to hang out.

The author on Redwater Creek.

Fishing News - Page 4

In the height of summer these smaller

waters can become quite low. It is vital to take your time, wade nice and slowly and do your best to blend in with the surrounds. The fish aren’t going anywhere after all, unless you charge in there and spook them!. As you wade nice and quietly up the centre of these smaller waters fire off quick accurate casts to all the likely looking spots. No need for huge lengths of line here, you won’t have room anyway. Save the full length casts for the those Great Lake sharks and just learn to straighten out a couple of metres of fly line and your leader and you are in business. This is another aspect of the glass rods I have to come to love recently.

On the subject of leaders I rarely find a need to go longer than the length of rod you are fishing but in the case of a 5’9” rod I do stretch my leader out a bit, but not much. Around seven feet is good I find, and a slightly thicker than normal butt section can be useful to turn over the bigger, more wind resistant flies that this type of fishing has us using. I have also in recent times been converted, for this smaller type of fishing, to gluing my leaders into the fly-line.

The main advantage of doing it this way is that you can actually cast the leader join out thru the eyes of the rod without any hassles at all. You can buy the super glue kits from Peter Hayes and if you couple this with one of the flat butt leaders he sells, then you have what is just about the perfect set up. And if all that doesn’t help you turn over a leader in front of that hard to reach small stream trout then maybe you should have a casting lesson from him as well when you pick the leader kit up. Hey, even Tiger Woods still practices every day.

In keeping with the nice relaxed afternoon approach to this style of fishing I like to keep the rest of my gear simple as well. I now use a Patagonia sling style bag and I believe it is one of the best fishing related purchases I have ever made. Big statement I know, but if you haven’t tried one already go and do it. You might have to join the

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waiting list to get one though as I am told that is how popular they now are. In this I just carry the usual things. My hopper fly box, spools of leader material, one spare leader, floatant, forceps to protect the smaller fish, nippers(don’t bite the leader material people) it does the teeth no good at all, camera with remote for those solo shots which I am not very good at yet! and on my back I always carry the weigh net because it never lies.

Just back to the spare leader for a minute, in all my years of fishing I can hardly remember having to change a complete leader during a day. It has happened but not often yet I always carry a spare. In the event of a lost leader and using the super glue method I would just nail knot the new one in place though you could carry the glue kit with you if you wished to. All that’s left to do then is go fishing.

If after all this you still struggle to catch a fish at hopper time do what I do. Take my two boys with me along with a few pre-caught naturals and get them to crawl along the bank throwing some in to liven the fish up and as an added bonus they scare off the snakes that love these small waters as well!. Sorry people, in case you hadn’t noticed I like to have a joke and a bit of fun so don’t tell my wife please, if she thinks its true I will be in a bit of strife.

Broomhall’s Bruiser Bugs

Flies Hopper flies, where do we start.

There would have to be hundreds of them, I know I wouldn’t like to have to tally up every different pattern available to us.

My current favourite is hands down Peter Broomhall’s Bruisers Bug. I am not sure I will ever write another story without mentioning this fly it is that good. Alter the colours for the type of fishing you are targeting and it will succeed on most occasions.

At hopper time my favourite variation is tan/brown body with

orange and clear rubber grizzly legs.

I have also had good success with yellow/brown bodies and chartreuse/ brown bodies both with orange rubber grizzly legs. Throw in some WMD and mini WMD hoppers, Muz Wilsons Wee Creek Hopper and you would be hard pressed to not catch a fish.

Time to get out there As I said earlier I really do favour the small waters for my hopper fishing but that is only a personal thing. Have a wander along your favourite creek/river and see what you can find. I am sure your best bits of water on the Meander, North or South Esk or any other water you care to think of will all produce the goods at some stage. Scale up the gear from the short twig water set ups to something that is more comfortable and user friendly on the bigger waters and there will be endless amounts of fun to be had.

Just on a serious note though I know I made a light-hearted reference to snakes earlier but if you are fishing the tighter creeks please keep an eye out

when wading up the middle. There is nothing worse than looking sideways and being face to face with an angry tiger snake that has had his peace and quiet shattered. And if you decide to give the Redwater Creek a go this summer please look after it as it a place that is very close to my heart. There is not a huge head of fish in it but they are all good fun and I would love for my boys to grow up enjoying it just as I did.

By some stroke of luck if we happen to meet on that road bridge I talked about, I might not be throwing in grasshoppers but I will certainly have a cold beer close by to share with you as we relax and tell a few stories.

Gavin Hicks

All these are deadly flies in their original versions but if you love to sit at the fly vice like I do, have a bit of fun with colours and materials and see what you can come up with. It just might be that fly you have to hide behind the tree to tie on so the fish don’t jump all over it. And if it is can you send me a couple please, I wont tell anyone. Don’t limit yourself to only these flies though as they are only what works for me at the moment. Gather as many different styles as you can and try them all, nothing looks better than a well stocked fly box.

A selection of Hoppers.

Fooled by the Hopper.

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Fishing News - Page 5

Flat heading Todd Lambert

T

he humble Flathead is without doubt the Tasmanian anglers most sought after recreational saltwater species.

They can be found virtually anywhere there is a sandy bottom, from our estuaries to our bays, they are easy to catch and as an added bonus, are fabulous on the dinner table as well.

The editor (Mike Stevens) has asked me to pen a few words together aimed at those that want to start targeting this species and perhaps aren’t really familiar on how to go about it, so here goes.

Species There are three distinct species of flathead found around Tasmania and perhaps the most common is the southern sand flathead.

They can grow to around 50cm in length and over 2 kg in weight, but due to them having to be around 16 years of age in order to reach this size; fish like these are the exception rather than the rule.

Their colours vary depending on surroundings but they are usually a

back to basics

light brown or mottled pattern on top with a white belly.

Beware the poisonous spikes around the gill plate area that can inflict a painful wound and as the poison also contains an anti coagulant, once an unwary angler is spiked, they will also find out it can also take quite some time to stop bleeding, so be warned! A good way to deal with fish is take a solid cloth or piece of towel to hold them while unhooking.

If struck, the best remedy I have found is vinegar.

Southern sand flathead can be caught on a variety of baits and lures.

When using bait, I prefer squid, but it must be fished right on the bottom though.

Another common species is the Tiger flathead, commonly called king flathead.

A chunkier model of flathead, they possess a light brownish body with orange brown spots.

Unlike the southern sand flathead, this species possess a good set of teeth that can inflict a painful bite should the unwary angler put them anywhere near its mouth.

They are caught by fishing over a sandy bottom and are often found

Demi Lambert showing how it is done.

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amongst the other species. Generally though they are offshore in water up to 400 metres deep.

Growing up to 65cm in length, they can live up to 17 years of age.

The third species I would like to make mention of is the one that gets the locals the most excited due to its size, the blue spot flathead, also known as the Yank flathead.

A simple Paternoster works well for flathead.

Ensure you have a sinker to suit the depth, current and drift. If you aren’t on the bottom you won’t catch flathead.

Although not as common as the tiger and southern flathead, its size can reach up to 8kgs, It is mainly found around the northern Tasmanian coastline, from shallow water up to depths of around 30 metres. They are also found on sandy bottoms and thin seagrass beds.

The best times to catch flathead In a nutshell, now, the warmer months seem to make them more aggressive and therefore they can be caught in larger numbers, that said, with a bit of effort, any time of the year will generally produce a fish or two.

If fishing off the shoreline in an estuary such as the Tamar River, fishing the drop offs on the turn of a run out tide can produce some good specimens as they lie in wait for the last of the baitfish to disperse.

If fishing from a boat, a good sea breeze of around 5 to 10 knots will push your vessel along nicely so you can cover sufficient water until you find a productive patch of fish.

If you do get on to a good number at a particular spot, once the bite slows down, go back over it and start again, chances are there will still be plenty to be caught on that next drift.

A GPS is very useful here, especially if you are a long way from landmarks.

A GPS means you can go back to the exact spot rather than guessing. You can also mark spots as a waypoint

and go there first next time you go out.

It may not be the right spot, but it is a good place to start.

Tackle for flathead As with all fishing, tackle can be as simple or complicated as you want.

Entry level fishing combo’s will do the trick and my personal preference is to spool your reel with 50 pound braid. I like the bigger (reel) combo’s with shortish rods as you can retrieve a lot of line per turn of the reel.

Flathead don’t fight much so it is just a matter of getting them up quickly.

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Thicker braid is good for bottom bashing as it seems to lend itself to less tangles – especially if your anglers are not familiar with the vagaries of braid.

Braid also allows you to feel every knock and bump on your line as opposed to the standard monofilament.

Perhaps my best tip though is to drop into a tackle shop and get some sabiki or “jig em” rigs.

These come in various colours, my preference is anything in pink.

Pre made rigs such as these consist of a row of three hooks with coloured flies hanging off them, simply tie this onto your braid, add a bit of squid on each hook along with a sinker of appropriate weight that you need to get it on the bottom, and you’re away, simple as that.

Remember, legally though you are only allowed three hooks maximum.

There are many types of rigs that will work on flathead. Pink Silstar Jig-ems are one of my favourites.

Take particular notice of your drift speed, depth and sinker weight. If your sinker is not on the bottom you won’t catch fish. Use a clip to attach your sinkers and add more if you aren’t on the bottom.

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A good drift is essential; the sinker kicks up the sand and that in itself attracts the flathead. The drift also helps you find the fish as explained above.

Another good tip when fishing from a boat and things are quiet, and maybe your drift is slow, is to continually jerk your line up and down. As flathead are ambush predators, this technique often brings on an aggressive response. You are doing the ‘kick up the sand’

Conclusion I have written about bait fishing in this article as this is what my family focuses on when after the humble flattie.

I am aware of many that swear by the use of soft plastics, especially those models with the twisting grub type tails.

Small fish - big boy - Dale Howard.

Tip: If you are only catching small flathead - move location.

The truth is, I don’t think it matters how you fish for them, if you’re in the right place at the right time and the flathead are hungry, you will catch them and you will catch them in numbers.

It is for this reason they are a great species to pursue when you wish to introduce your children to fishing, the action is often constant and offers enough of a distraction to keep them off that bloody computer for a while!.

Bringing home a feed for the family caught by one’s children is always a memory to cherish, I remember the first time I did,... “way back in the day”, mind you, the fish were very small

and our plates involved an exorbitant amount of chips just to fill everyone, but as a young boy I sat there with my chest puffed out and soaked up all the compliments my mother and father put my way.

With a possession limit of 30 fish and a size limit of 30 cm, now days, hopefully the fillets provided for on your families dinner table, are now lot bigger.

Flathead in egg n bread crumbs sure takes some beating.

Whiting option It seems more and more now that King George whiting are making their way into the catches of flathead fishers.

King George whiting are becoming more

From the far common and some anglers are targeting north west coast to them. You will find them all around the south; including Montague, Tamar Tasmania. This one is from Georges Bay. River, Georges Bay, Coles/Great Oyster Bay and more. Often these are The Pisces brand are one of the better brands. ‘chance’ catches on flathead gear.

Good whiting baits are prawns, So what you might think are funny squid and sandworms. bites that don’t hookup may be whiting. You will need smaller hooks Todd Lambert and a bit more finesse, but as King George whiting are a premium table fish it may be worth your while.

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Fishing News - Page 9

Big Spinning reels for TASMANIA S

pinning reels are coming to market in a new range and size every other day. The Tasmanian Angler is spoilt for choice and it’s a great problem to have.

Egg beaters are what we love to call these types of reels and for good reason. We are finding them used for a greater range of fishing styles than just spinning.

Versatile and easy to use The bigger salt water series reels are a fabulous work horses with an amazing amount of versatility.

We as kids grew up with these reels and it is inevitable that our kids will become very comfortable with the use of them at an early age. It is this comfort, ability and ease of use that has these bigger spinners finding favour with a great number of recreational anglers. And why not?

Sure the conventional lever drag offshore reels have their place in competition conditions and when targeting specific species, but the ease and familiarity in using a spinning reel cannot be overlooked.

It is not every angler that can justify having five or more of that type of rod and reel gracing the back of the boat. The recreational angler needs a quality outfit that will stand the test of time and deliver across a number of fishing styles.

All hail the big egg beater Take any large saltwater spinning reel in a size of 8500 and above, pair it with a rod between 1.60m and 2.00m and around 10 – 15kg line rating, and you have a package ready to take on all comers.

Spool up with 40 pound braid as your main line attach a # 2 ball bearing swivel and it’s only a matter of what you snap on that dictates what you could use the outfit for.

Out off the coast a little way, snap on a bit of mono down to a salmon lure on your way out to your favourite flathead spot. Once there undo your snap and replace with a paternoster rig to target your flatties. Granted it is considerable over kill for your average flathead, but now when that nice gummy shark happens to take your bait, you are in the box seat and have heaps up your sleeve to land him.

Next weekend you might be asked by a mate with a bigger boat to head out and try for a stripey trumpeter in 100 plus metres of water. No worries.

Pack the big egg beater and attach a deep sea stripey rig and you are in the mix.

The decision might be made to troll back in and try for a tuna and all you have to do is snap the lure leader on to your eggy and away you go. The new salt water spinners with quality braid can now hold enough line to allow them to take on all Tasmania has to throw at you. Once the rod butt is placed into a gimble, the ease and familiarity again makes fighting a tuna much easier than a competition style lever drag reel.

Fishing News - Page 10

Another advantage is the ability to retrieve a lot of line per turn, and wind them fat. A big Penn Spinfisher (8500-10500) will retrieve near to a metre per turn of the handle, whilst a large saltwater Shimano Stella is between 90cm and 1.27 metres per turn. So what you might ask, so do some big lever drag reels?

It becomes really important if you have a tuna or stripey trumpeter coming to the boat with a seal chasing it. Yes you can do it with a lever drag, but it is much easier and constant with an egg-beater. The reel is under instead of on top of the rod and much better balanced for high speed winding.

In the afternoon after you have washed the boat and had a good feed of BBQ’ed Albacore, you might like to head off beach fishing. Un screw the big egg beater from your boat rod, screw it on your beach rod and off you go, brilliant !

Never going to be line ball perfect for every situation, but with a bit of thought on rigs and maybe even a spare spool, the big egg beater is a consideration for Tasmanian anglers like never before.

The simplicity and ease of use is again the standout feature of these style reels. We have grown up with them and as we have matured and learnt new skills, so too, it looks like they have as well.

Kelly Hunt

Big eggbeaters can be used for anything from flathead to stripey trumpeter and tuna.

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Fishing News - Page 11 6/02/13 3:51 PM

Lake Mackenzie A

Shane Flude

t an altitude of 1120ms above sea level Lake Mackenzie is one of the highest lakes you can drive to in Tassie. It is the upper most catchment on the Mersey/Forth Hydro scheme, its waters being dammed in the early seventies and diverted via canal and pipe to the Fisher River Power Station.

The original Lake Mackenzie, Sandy Lake and Pine Marsh have since become Lake Mackenzie although for most summer months the original bodies of water are obvious.

Numerous cars are often seen in the summer months below the dam as it is here that bush walker’s park to begin their journey to the numerous waters beyond. The lake is roughly an hour’s travel from Devonport and a bit longer from Launceston via the Mersey Forest Road. The 18 klm gravel road from the turnoff can be quite rutty at times but any standard 2wd vehicle can be driven to the dam.

Boats can generally be launched from a wide gravel area at the road’s end. The popular Devils Gullet scenic reserve is the major tourist drawcard in the area and is an absolute must do enroute to the lake. It is well worth the 20 minute return walk to view the stunning views into the middle of Cradle/St Clair Park from atop the 150 metre cliff.

Fish stocks and Regulations Mackenzie was first stocked in 1895 and fish quickly established and made their way into the many waters beyond. The entire water catchment that flows down into Mackenzie is known as the Chudleigh Lakes and the entire system has long held a viable, self-supporting population of brown trout.

Lake Mackenzie fish average 700g to one kilo.

Over the years there have been a number of illegal rainbow trout stockings into various headwaters. It was inevitable that a number of these would find their way down into Lake Mackenzie. For about the last 10 years the lake has supported a small population of resident rainbows. On a recent trip we claimed two rainbows for nine browns.

Another angler had three rainbows for 7 browns.

Lake Mackenzie was one of the first waters I fished in the early 80s. Back then spinning was always reliable around the windswept shores but the favoured methods included fishcakes and the good old wattle grub, both night-time activities. During this period superb condition three pound brownies were common.

In recent years the size has fallen off and numbers have probably increased, most fish now average around 700g with the odd one over a kilo.

The rainbows all seem to be around the kilo mark.

Mackenzie is managed as a western lakes fishery and has a bag limit of 5 which can include 2 over 500mm. It opens first Saturday in August and closes last Sunday in April. Mackenzie and Augusta are the two exceptions in the western lakes where bait fishing is still permitted along with artificial and fly.

Fishing News - Page 12

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Fishing methods and Lake description A lap around the lake, either by foot or boat, reveals a number of different shores and fishing conditions although these change regularly with the ever fluctuating water levels.

We will begin the lap of the lake at the first place reached, the 14 m high, 975 m long bitumen faced rock-filled dam. A parking area and convenient set of stairs exists near the dam near the outflow.

Otherwise drive to the northern end and simply walk the dam’s length.

The dam wall itself may not seem like an attractive fishing location but armed with a fly rod and small dry fly, and coupled with suitable water level and weather conditions, it really is a magnificent venue.

Higher levels make for much easier casting and when the lake is minus eight metres or less some very tricky downward casting is required. By most afternoons in summer the prevailing westerly winds create a 1-2 m wide wind lane along most of the dam wall hard up against the face. Fish can be easily seen cruising the edge, each with their own designated beat, sipping insects from the calm surface. Simply walk slowly along the entire length of the dam with just your head over the guard rails. When a fish is spotted run ahead a few metres and lay a cast in front of the incoming quarry. Sounds easy but its amazing how many times a trout turns back on his beat just short of your fly. Casting directly down and in front of the fish spooks them more often than not.

Mackenzie is managed as a western lakes fishery and has a bag limit of 5 which can include 2 over 500mm.

Your bag will usually include a rainbow or two.

Whilst Mackenzie is managed as a Western Lakes fishery bait fishing is allowed.

TROUT TACTICS

Catch More Fish!

On a suitable day seven to eight fish can be spotted off the wall. Lead each one back the way you have fished so as not to alert the rest.

The fish that appear down a bit deeper and are cruising at a brisk walking pace will be rainbows, so cast well head. A fellow angling companion to spot for you and call the fish location on the wall is a real advantage.

Best locations on the wall are at either side of the intake structure and the extreme southern end. Remember, just your head above the guard rails or the game is up.

Moving anti-clockwise around the shore, the next one kilometre or so towards the Fisher River inflow is quite rough and rocky, and quickly drops away into deeper water. It is a reliable deep water spinning or soft plastic location, particularly in a strong northerly wind, and offers a good vantage point when spotting fish for the fly.

As you walk around into the bay the waters shallow out quickly, with water levels of about minus four and lower the entire bay becomes quite shallow and is mostly wadeable around the shoreline. There are however several very soft parts near the river inflow so tread with care. If the level is minus two metres or higher I would avoid this shore completely, as the water backs right up into bushes and makes progress very tough.

If you are hell-bent on getting to the Fisher River in such conditions there is actually a reasonably well-marked walking track which commences at the southern end of the cliff face near the dam. Once up through the scrub behind the cliff the track follows the edge of the moor and leads directly to the wire rope crossing on the Fisher River. This crossing marks the start of the Lake Explorer track and provides some hilarious entertainment for those unfortunate enough to get the crossing wrong. In high summer the river can be easily forded but if levels are high the wire crossing is essential.

Once the river is crossed the eastern side of the bay has some great shallows for polaroiding in summer. The bottom is a lot firmer than the western side but still has its moments.

The next kilometre around the lake’s eastern side is very rocky and rough, recent day trips here have proved fruitless. However in the early

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Fishing News - Page 13

days it was one of the best night-time fishing locations. This rocky eastern shore ends with a magnificent sandy beach that always has a couple of fish cruising within. It is the hotspot along this shore.

You are now roughly half way around the lake and depending on water levels have two large bays to contend with or a straight walk back to the dam. Levels of about minus seven separate both bays. The bays being shallow are good flyfishing locations and in perfect levels there are large amounts of shallow water suitable for polaroiding. Once levels fall too low however the wind invariably stirs up both bays and ruins the fishing.

Boating on Lake McKenzie is not popular but probably should be. Easy launching exists at the road’s end when boats can still be negotiated into Sandy Lake (NW Bay) the average depth is around 10 feet. This is a perfect depth in the bay for trolling, spinning and soft plastic fishing. On a recent trip we caught good numbers on the ever-reliable Rapala CD-7 and Berkley Black and gold T tail.

The next most reliable location was the entrance to the Fisher River bay. There are a number of hidden rocks, reefs and snags all around Mackenzie, and unless you’re familiar with the lake and its ever-changing levels I’d suggest very slow boating. By December onwards the lake has often been drawn down to typical summer levels of around minus eight and both bays will be exposed. A heavy rain in the Chudleigh Lakes can quickly refill the lake however and makes for great short-term fishing.

Rainbows usually make up part of the catch.

Mackenzie canal is diverted underground. It can’t be seen from the road and if in doubt follow the small creek up that crosses the road. It is only about 200 metres across and mostly less than knee-deep.

At best it supports browns up to 4 pound, which can easily be polaroided. It is re-stocked from the creek, last year I waded all over it in perfect conditions and did not spot a fish, so I would only fish it occasionally with some time to kill.

This year the lake was drawn down quickly to below -9 metres for repair work on the canal outflow.

There was no where deeper than 15 ft across the lake. The lake has been slightly stirred up all year as a result but still clear enough to Polaroid. Experience The entire main canal right down to the intake has shown that the lake fishes very well in the last is full of small browns which rise freely in summer. asmania 25k. Copyright © State of Tasmania,Base Data and Raster images from the LIST (www.thelist.tas.gov.au) few weeks of April, particularly in slightly rough Anything over a pound here is huge, but I’ve always overcast weather. I intend to visit several times in this period.

The Chudleigh Lakes rate in my opinion as the best fly waters in Tasmania, and for years I have simply parked near Lake Mackenzie and walked in, occasionally looking back at the lake as I disappear over the escarpment. Recent years has seen me spending time at McKenzie first, or even just fishing it outright.

Its popularity as a trout fishing destination has decreased markedly since the early 80s, but believe me if you make the time and explore the waters you will be surprised.

Associated Waters Some waters nearby to McKenzie are also worth a mention in this article. Gun Lagoon lies about 2 km north of the main Fisher Dam water intake, which is just past the Devils Gullet turnoff. Park and cross the small bridge near the intake and follow the small creek across the open plain and up to the lake.

It was stocked in the early 80s with rainbows, which apparently grew to around 8 pound. Today it supports a high population of one pound brownies.

found it hard to drive past a rising trout no matter what the size.

Lake Balmoral is the nearest major western lakes water to Mackenzie lying just 15 minutes walk east from the sandy beach mentioned above. It supports a good population of browns slightly larger than found in Mackenzie. It can easily be included in a day trip around Mackenzie. The northern and western shores are the best spots. It is possible to wade out in the vicinity of the island and fish the drop off. Fish here this year were a bit lean.

Shane Flude

Gun Lagoon

Yeates Lagoon

Lake Balmoral

On a suitable summer’s day Gun Lagoon has huge numbers of rising trout. The waters however become slight turbid making polaroiding difficult, so fish to the rises.

Another nearby water is Yeates Lagoon, which lies in open moorland about 500 m north of where the Fishing News - Page 14

Some close by waters can be worth a visit.

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Spinning

- rivers basics

Adrian Webb

I

began spinning for trout in 1965 in the Finnis River, Yundi, South.

Australia, at the age of 19. Now at the age of 67 I am still loving it just as much, if not more than the first time.

I now live at Sheffield, Tasmania and spin the rivers in the north, and in my opinion they are some of the best rivers in the State to fish. The Meander, Mersey, Leven, Iris, Vale, Emu and Flowerdale rivers are just a few of the many across the NorthWest to try.

In the south there are rivers like the Huon, Russell, Tyenna, Little Denison and the Weld plus many others.

These, like many others are all good for spinning and wading.

To start, a good setup is essential.

A light weight rod is a must, plus a good quality spinning reel and line and you are nearly there.

THE INCENTIVES TO GO TROUT FISHING IN TASMANIA ARE BIGGER THAN EVER. Big rains – lots of water The Tasmanian trout fishery is in peak condition after three seasons of good rainfall. Higher water levels and the persistent inundation of fresh ground have brought an abundance of aquatic life. Weed beds have regrown in previously dry areas, providing habitat for aquatic invertebrates and excellent foraging grounds for trout. This season is predicted to be one of the best in years.

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Big stretches of quality rivers

Big improvements to roads and ramps

Stretches of quality angling water found in several of Tassie’s renowned lowland rivers, which were previously difficult to access through private property, have now been opened up to anglers including the recently completed Tyenna River. These projects add to those already undertaken on the River Leven, Meander, Macquarie, Lake and North Esk rivers and Brumbys Creek, along with the Huon River in the south, since the River Access Program began in 2007.

This year roads to Brushy Lagoon and Large Bay (Lake Echo) have been upgraded along with further work on the Woods Lake Road, incuding safety advisory signage. Boat ramp improvements have been completed at Great Lake, Four Springs Lake, Bronte Lagoon and Lake Mackintosh. Bronte Lagoon with its floating pontoon sets the standard for freshwater facilities.

A rock break wall has been constructed at Woods Lake to provide protection from south-westerly winds. Carparks at Camerons Lagoon and Little Pine Lagoon have been upgraded.

Big numbers of wild fish Now in its fourth year of operation, the IFS modern hatchery is producing increased numbers of fry and fingerling stock from wild fish for stocking. These trout are being grown to larger sizes before their release, resulting in improved stocking effectiveness. This means better fishing in waters such as the Western Lakes,Penstock Lagoon, Lake Crescent and Four Springs Lake.

Big choice of fishing spots

The other piece of gear you need is a good pair of waders, a belt and a fishing vest. The rod I use is rated 1-5lb,with a Okuma 15a V-System reel filled with a good quality 4lb monoline.

When spinning you must also have an anti-kink set above the spinner, about 450mm, is ample, as this will stop any line twist that can occur when using mono-lines. Braid line is very

Another benefit of the increased rainfall has been a bigger range of attractive fishing options throughout Tasmania, particularly at places such as Lake King William, Lake Echo, Tooms Lake, Lake Leake and Lake Pedder. There will be plenty of un-crowded waters, banks and shores to choose from this season.

Big wild trout waters Premium wild trout fisheries in the Central Highlands such as Arthurs, Great and Woods lakes have benefited greatly from higher lake levels, and fishing there is only expected to improve. These are the most popular waters in the state, having large populations of wild trout and providing excellent fishing using all methods.

Huntsman Lake, a new fishery resulting from the construction of the Meander Dam in 2008, has a large population of wild brown trout. It’s already a popular fishery, being easily accessed from Devonport and Launceston, and it is now open all year round. Other all-year waters include Great Lake, Lake Barrington, Brushy Lagoon, Craigbourne Dam, Lake Burbury, Lake Pedder and Meadowbank Lake, along with the estuarine sections of the Leven, Tamar, Derwent and Huon rivers.

Big rejuventation Following three years of good rain, previously droughtstricken waters in the south-east – Craigbourne Dam, Lake Leake, Lake Dulverton and Tooms Lake – refilled with water. They’ve been stocked intensively since, reinvigorating these fisheries and reclaiming their previous popular angling status. They’re well worth a visit early in the season when the weather in the highlands may be less favourable.

Big for family fishing Easy to catch adult domestic fish are stocked in lowland waters, particularly those promoted as popular regional fisheries. These include Lake Barrington in the north-west, Brushy Lagoon and Curries River Dam in the north, and Lake Meadowbank and Craigbourne Dam in the south. These stockings, particularly the periodic stocking of trophy size Atlantic salmon in some of these waters, will continue throughout the season.

For more information or to buy a 2012-13 Tasmanian angling licence visit www.ifs.tas.gov.au or discovertasmania.com

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

Fishing News - Page 15

popular now days but I prefer to keep with the nylon mono-line.

There are several other good brands of rods and reels available for you to choose from and also suit your budget. The most expensive equipment doesn’t mean that you will catch more fish, it is the way you go about it. So I suggest you shop around and you will find a setup that suits your pocket. I will give one bit of advice though, if you do intend fishing on a regular basis then it is wise to spend that little bit more than usual.

A suitable pair of waders will set you back anything from $100 to $500.

I use a pair of Hornes waist waders, and this is where the belt comes in.

Once on, put the belt around your waist and tighten, this will stop them from taking in water if and when you happen to take the plunge, and one day you will. I don’t know of too many fishermen that haven’t taken a dive. I have gone in several times.

The most important thing to remember when wading is not to take any silly risks. SAFETY must be your first priority as no fish is worth drowning over. Water depth can be deceiving. It is always deeper than it looks. DO NOT go out of your depth, it is not worth it.

Now with that out of the way your next items you need are a landing net and a fishing vest. Pick one with plenty of pockets for your lure boxes.

Metal blade spinners Now it’s time for the range of lures.

I am not a hard body or a soft plastics spin fisher, I am a metal blade spin fisher and this is one of the easiest methods of fishing when you first start spinning rivers. You can move on to the others once you’ve gained enough experience and are confident to try them if you wish to do so.

There are several different brands of metal blades to choose from like Blue Fox - Vibrax, Mepps and Celtas to name a few. I use the Mepps. They all have a good variety of colours and sizes. The Mepps I use are Black Fury, Comet and Aglia in the size 00, 0 and 1, as these are quite suitable for every river in Tassie.

The blade colours come in silver, copper, gold and black and they are light in weight starting at 1.5 gms, 2.5gms and 3.5gms.

Colour and style Just because a spinner looks good doesn’t mean it’s going to catch fish.

The vibrations of the spinner’s blade and its visual effects also play their part in triggering the trout’s attack.

But which one do you choose? The following may help you. * Silver: for morning light or when it is not strong (evening, overcast or shadowy places) and when the water is cold the metabolism of the trout really low that they need to be stimulated into attacking the spinner. *Gold: work well most times of the day in most river systems. * Black: work very well under strong sunlight, also shows up well in cloudy or flooded discoloured water. * Copper: for tea-coloured waters and there are plenty of them in Tasmania. My first choice of spinner to use is the Black/ copper or gold colour, these have been my most productive spinners.

Practice casting When you have yourself set up, it’s time to practice your casting! Go to a reserve and place a several objects around some to the left, ahead and to the right of you, then stay in one spot and practice casting at them.

Vary the distance with the objects as too get the hang of different casting distances. Keep this up until you get within 150mm of them - the closer the better. Then move yourself to another spot and start again. Do this regularly until you feel comfortable with your distance and accuracy, because when you fish the rivers you will need it.

Once on the river you will find it quite different than the reserve keeping your footing and balance for starters. Pick an open section of river that has a gentle flow and not over deep, then go out a few metres from the river bank and have a few casts to different areas around you.

Face yourself upstream and cast that direction and bring the spinner back downstream as this appears more natural — trout always face upstream waiting for food to drift downstream.

Once you get the hang of it, the confidence will follow, then you can start to venture out to the centre of the river.

Most rivers and streams in Tassie have rocky bottoms, can be quite hard to wade and are pretty rough on the body as well.

Don’t rush into it, take one step at a time and make sure you have good footing before taking the next step.

A lovely rainbow about to be released.

Fishing News - Page 16

This is when the experience of many years of river fishing comes into

The author fishing one of his favourite streams. play. Given time, and if you go often, you too will gain the knowledge of wading a river. When you fish the same river over a period of time you get to know the sections of river that are easy and those that are not.

clubs that will gladly offer you advice.

Also check out fishing sites on the web as there are plenty of reports and fishers willing to give advice. Two good ones are www.tasfish.com and http:// www.sportsfishtasmania.com

Move towards the middle and cast back towards the river bank and continue the casting until you have worked a full 180deg, to the opposite bank. By doing this then you have covered every section of water around you.

So here are a few pointers to remember that may help you once you are starting to have a spin in a river.

When the water depth is between the knees and the belt around your waist then that is the deepest you should go, any deeper can become a risk.

2: Have someone with you on your first few trips and preferably an experienced river angler.

Trout are quite often caught in fast water stretches of rivers as well and I have caught the majority of my fish in these areas. Care must be taken with this type of fishing as you can come unstuck easily.

DO NOT go above knee depth if and when you fish these sections of river. Wait until you have had many more hours of wading a river before you enter this type of water.

The top and bottom ends of pools are always good spots to cast a spinner into as well, the trout will sit there waiting to pounce on anything that comes towards them.

Trout fishing can take as long as you want it too, especially when fishing rivers as there are so many stretches of river to fish. I am in the river on an average of four hours every time I go spinning. I am always wondering what is in the next section of water ahead of me. It’s like a disease and hard to get out of one’s system once it’s there. For the best results though, you do have to cover a good length of river. I figure no less than one kilometre otherwise you may as well put a worm on a hook and sit back and hope for the best.

Another way of gaining experience is to join an angling club. There are plenty of good fishermen in these

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

1: DO NOT TAKE RISK BY GOING TOO DEEP this is one rule you must abide by as SAFETY is your first priority.

3: Work the lure from one river bank to the other (180 deg) if fishing from the centre of the river.

4: Work the spinner across the river by letting it drift with the flow and a slow retrieve with the occasional light twitch of the rod. This will often produce a hook up.

5: Early morning (first light) or late afternoon fishing are usually the best times to be on the water.

6: Don’t take more fish than you need for a feed, try to practice catch and release as much as possible. This way there will still be fish in the river for next time.

7: Make sure you have a variety of spinners with you and more than just one of the same as you could lose a few from getting snag on a sunken log or a stray cast into a tree. It does happen!!

8: Always work your way upstream as to approach the fish from behind.

Good luck and get out there and have a go at spinning and wading some of Tasmania’s great rivers all over the State. You won’t regret it.

Check out what your local tackle shops have available to get you started into spinning one of Tasmania’s great trout rivers or streams.

Adrian Webb

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Fishing News - Page 17

Flies from Mick Hall’s Fly Box

Mudeye time is anytime

Dragon fly larva, or Mudeyes, as we all know them, comes in two forms loosely known as the couta and bug (Corduliid) mudeyes. The couta is the larger of the two and many species, in fact close to 300 species, are found all over Australia. They are found in mountain streams, inland lakes, marshes and wetlands, in general.

What species dominate your local waters? I guess it is up to you to work out; during summer you will see them flying around.

Couta mudeye Enrico Puglisi Streamer Brush

Here is a tip on how to easily tell the difference. The couta, or large dragonfly, holds its wings out flat on either side of its body whilst at rest.

Their smaller cousin, the damselfly, when resting holds its wings together out over the back of its body.

Dragon flies come in various colours and some feel that this is due to diet, whilst others consider, and correctly so, that they simply blend in with surroundings. Either way, it is just another thing to look for. Naturally it is in your interest to select a pattern that resembles the same or similar colouration as those that are in your local waters.

The EP Bug/Spider Mudeye is in just one colour, mottled brown, and can be treated with floatant if required. It was first shown to me by a chap who called into see me at a tackle store in Melbourne; he had

Bug mudeye Dragonfly

made it out of Hi-Vis and I thought it was ingenious but do you think I can remember his name? I hope he makes contact so that I can make amends.

I replaced the Hi-Vis with March Brown EP Trigger-point winging fibres for the body, because of its natural mottled appearance and non-matting characteristics. Plus this material has been pre-treated with “Watershed” to assist floatation or to allow this bug to swim high in the water column.

In the “Flybox Collection” we have tied a brown and olive green version of Mick’s Mudeye to help alleviate this problem.

Just the same, buy them or tie them, it is worth carrying both.

Peter Hayes

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Whilst the Mick’s Mudeye is available in two colour and two styles, there are the slow floaters in All Brown with matching glass eyes and All Olive with matching glass eyes.

To add to the floatation, simply treat the body with a gel floatant.

Mick’s Mudey - Brown

Damselfly The same two flies are available with black metal beads to assist sinking over deep water.

Mick’s Mudeye is a new addition to the range but I first put this pattern together over twenty years ago. In those days the body was made of spun wool then trimmed and coloured with a marking pen to match. It worked well, in fact very well but took some time to make.

Then my close friend, Enrico Puglisi, sent me out some samples of his new EP-Streamer Brush in a whole range of colours and, as you can see, it is buggy looking stuff.

EP Spider Mudeye

What else could I do but make up a Mick’s Mudeye. You just wind it over the hook to create the body, a little trimming to shape and a huge amount of time is saved. It is much lighter in weight and it takes a marking pen as if was made for its use. This product is freely available and again, it is distributed by Clarkson Imports.

Mick Hall

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Fishing News - Page 18

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MH24 Penstock Brown Comp Reverse

MH25 Penstock Brown Comp Dun

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MH28 Light Highland Dun

MH29 Peeping Stick Caddis Small

MH30 Peeping Stick Caddis Large

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MH33 Full Stop (Black Midge Ball)

MH34 All Round Brown Nymph

MH35 Damsel Fly

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Available from all good tackle stores.

Fishing News - Page 19

Red Rock

Burnie

Daniel Paull ummer is certainly the best time of the year to go fishing around Burnie. With a little well prepared burley, you can catch just about anything! From big silver trevally and salmon to elephant fish and seven gilled sharks, there is something for just about everyone. Red Rock, situated on the western side of Burnie in the suburb of Cooee, is my favourite spot to wet a line around town. Why? The variety. There isn’t that much you cant catch there!

I’ve deployed the burley, I usually give it about five or ten minutes until the first few mullet turn up. When they show up, you know there will be more species to follow.

S

Sure, mullet will provide you with some great entertainment on a lightly weighed bait or soft plastic, but more importantly, they will provide you with some fresh bait! Fresh bait is usually the key to enticing the larger fish that will show up in your trail later on. After I’ve humanely dispatched a mullet or two, I usually set up a twin dropper paternoster rig, created with 30lb monofilament line, accompanied with two 2/0 or 3/0 circle or o’shaughnessy hooks, a good quality barrel swivel and a small pyramid sinker to anchor it all down with. This simple rig is then connected to a 30 or 50lb braid loaded outfit, normally consisting of a medium to large sized spinning reel and a 10 or 12ft long beach rod.

I’ve been fishing at Red Rock and it’s surroundings ever since I was a young whippersnapper and I don’t think I’ve had so much success anywhere else around Burnie, or along the entire north western coastline for that matter!

Back in the day, going to Red Rock for a weekend of fishing was something to look forward to during every single day of the school year. I reckon I would have spent nearly every weekend down on that steep chuck of rock trying to burley up a seven gilled

Bait presentation is another key to success, if you think the bait is looking pretty snazzy on the hook, chances are the fish will too! If you do choose to use mullet as your primary bait, fillet the fish carefully on a flat surface and run the knife down the middle of each fillet, so you end up with four finger like pieces.

These will act as terrific strip baits for salmon, gummies, trevally and any other piscatorial that may make it’s way up your burley trail.

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shark or two! It was, and still is a great place to fish, especially for those quick, after work sessions.

Burley is the most important thing to consider while you’re fishing at Red Rock.

Unfortunately, it can be very hard to find fish without it! An outgoing tide is best, with the wind at your back, preferably a slight southerly or south westerly. This will help you establish one hell of a burley trail and attract fish from just about everywhere in the general vicinity! Once

After you’ve finished applying your bait with a little love, cast the completed rig into the trail as far as you can and wait for a bite. I use soft plastics for the vast majority of my time at Red Rock, especially when the salmon and trevally show up, but it’s always wise to have a baited outfit ready to rumble for the species that would usually stray away from artificial lures such as elephant fish, gummies, and eagle rays. These fish will occasionally take a soft plastic, but I’m yet to see one take to the rubber while fishing from the rocks!

Flicking a soft plastic around is my favourite method of fishing while I’m at Red Rock, you can deceive just about everything with them. You don’t have to go super heavy either, I usually use my bream outfit! If you do plan to use super light gear, make sure you take a landing net. Dragging a big salmon up the jagged edge of Red Rock with 6lb fluorocarbon leader is no good for the fish or your tackle! If you do find yourself connected to a sizable fish and you’ve forgotten a net, fight the fish until it’s

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Fishing News - Page 20

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A selection of plastics used at Red Rock. The most important element though is burley.

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Cooee

ready to surrender, then slowly direct the fish into the small bay on the eastern side of the rock and land it there. There isn’t too much technique to using a soft plastic down at the rock, just cast it out into the trail, focus on the line, wait for it to hit the bottom then give it a few twitches or lifts and you’ll be set!

Make sure you hold on too, those trevally will hit hard and fast!

Hooked up at Red Rock. It is a great fishery and easy to get to.

Any natural looking profile will work, especially sandworm, prawn and baitfish imitations. Before selecting a suitable jighead for the job, make sure you examine the current swell and wind conditions.

If it’s reasonably still, try and use a 1/12 or 1/8oz jighead, just so you’ve got plenty of hang time while your plastic sinks to the bottom. If the conditions are sloppy, chuck on something heavier, like a 1/6 or 1/4oz jighead, this will make your plastic sink quicker, but you’ll have constant contact with your plastic and you’ll be able to detect any touches or bites between wind gusts and swells. If you can

persist with casting a plastic around occasionally, you’ll be hooked for life, you’ll catch plenty of fish too!

On a serious note, remember to limit your kill and don’t go overboard while collecting bait and fish for the table, take only what you need for a feed! If you do plan on taking a few for a feed, remember to take an esky loaded with ice so you can look after your catch and keep it fresh for the kitchen. Also, make sure you don’t leave any rubbish around the place, or anywhere for that matter, because it’s just a low act and other people shouldn’t have to deal with it!

Anyway, that’ll be enough from me now, I’ll let you get out for a fish! There are just so many other great locations around Burnie and it’s surroundings to find good fish, you’ve just get out and have an explore!

Daniel Paull

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Fishing News - Page 21

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Fishing News - Page 23

Wordly Wise - endless fishing learning

Fishing News - Page 24

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O

ne of the most appealing things about fishing is the endless opportunity to lean or discover something new. This is what keeps me keen. Trying something new in fishing and have it pay off is like adding another tool to your fishing arsenal. It could be a new technique or type of lure, fly or bait that sparks an idea to try something new in your own backyard. Knowledge and ideas are gained through your own experiences on the water and through your interaction with other anglers. Some may have had 40 years of experience on the water while others could be just discovering the sport for the first time.

Either way, you can learn something from anyone, as long as you’re willing to listen and share your own humble thoughts and experiences.

Reading fishing articles and watching fishing movies can be a great source of inspiration and knowledge to get out there and try something new for yourself. For me, articles and movies have inspired me to travel to many parts of the world.

This euphoria to experience new destinations and species has given me the fishing travel bug, to the point where I find it very difficult to travel without a rod packed into the corner of my suitcase. I have experienced some wonderful fishing locations around the world and more importantly, I have had the opportunity to meet other anglers who enjoy fishing as much as I do. On almost every trip there is something I can bring back home to enhance my own fishing in Tasmania, be it merely the realization that we live in a very special part of the world, with some fantastic fishing on my own doorstep.

and spending up to 20 days on the water along the western side of Cape York Peninsular. On trips like these you meet the locals and cross paths with the guides from the live aboard mother ships that fish these waters.

Tidal movements were a big part of planning your day on the water and with some helpful local knowledge and our own experiences we managed to have a very successful trip. The importance of knowing what the tide was doing each day and what level it would be was vital to planning a successful day in this area. Adopting the use of hourly tidal charts to keep track of the changing levels each day was from some very good advice we received from one of the locals we made contact with prior to our trip. This was something I could use back in Tasmania to pick the best times to be on the water in our estuaries. For instance, large tides would expose more of the flats and gutters that had previously been out of reach to foraging fish like Golden Trevally and Permit. Back home fish such as Black Bream also take advantage of the larger tides to feed over new ground.

With bigger tides, comes an increase in tidal flow, which dislodges crabs and shellfish, making them easy pickings for fish moving over the flats.

The faster tidal flow also helps fish like Trevally and Bream, dig out crustaceans and worms by taking away the sand and silt as they dig them out on the incoming and outgoing tides. Faster tidal flows also create prime ambush points, for many tropical fish and our own bream, flathead and Australian Salmon.

Kakadu Billabong Barra My time in the Northern Territory chasing Barra in the Billabongs of kakadu with my good friend SimonPeter Hedditch and his wife Cassie, was an experience I will never forget.

We spent a week camped on a billabong in tents with large salt water crocodiles only metres away. We sight fished to pods of Barra standing on their heads with their yellow tails pointing up towards the surface. It was Barra sight fishing at its best and the fly that was the most successful for me, was the Gold Bomber Clouser. Back in Tasmania, our own Black Bream readily snapped up this fly, in a slightly smaller version. This fly gave me my first Tassie bream on fly. My introduction to glass rattles in a fly was also taken from my time chasing Barra.

The sandbar along the red channel markers in Georges bay, at St Helens, is a prime example of this. The down side of an increase in tidal flow in some systems is the effect it has on the water clarity as it stirs up the sand and mud. In many places this can put an end to any practical sight fishing opportunities, limiting it to the bottom and top of the tide. In this instance the lower tides with less tidal flow are prime times to search the flats that are affected in this way, simply because you have the ability to see into the water to locate fish.

The effectiveness of fishing the outgoing tides and then the low tide pools was another lesson that was driven home by fishing these northern estuaries.

Like Barra in the north, bream can remain in the deeper holes in the upper estuaries at low tide, particularly when they are making their way up to spawn in spring and summer. At dead low tide things can be a bit slow at times, but if you’re their when the tide starts to push back in, it will often change the attitude of resting and shutdown fish, back into a feeding mode.

Soft Plastic and Jig Heads Soft plastics and jig heads have been around for a long time now. I can remember using them to catch flathead in the Rubicon estuary when I was a kid, 25 years ago. But the effectiveness of that super fast jigging action wasn’t fully understood until I spent some time fishing alongside Ricky Walker, who was an avid lure and soft plastic man during one of our Cape York trips. Ricky had bags and bags of plastics for the trip, so I had the opportunity to see just how effective theses lures were in the tropics on so many different species. It didn’t take me long to pick up on the lesson Ricky was unknowingly teaching me at the time, as I watched that super fast jigging action get eaten time after time by so many different species. This really reinforced the defectiveness of that jigging action that I had known about since I was a teenager fly fishing for trout with a Dog Nobbler that I tied up out of an English fly fishing magazine. The Dog Nobbler is simply a Woolly Bugger with a lead split shot head to give it a jigging action. Saltwater flies like the Clouser and Pink Thing do incorporated small dumbbell eyes in the tie to give a slight undulating jigging action, but

Cape York Tides What a wonderful place Cape York is, I have done two memorable trips to this fantastic part of Australia. Both of which, involved towing a 6 metre boat from Tasmania to the Cape

On left a Gold Bomber for barra, but the smaller versions work on black bream.

A giant trevally taken using my trick of adding a small ball sinker into the Perfection Loop.

Kayak bargains – $630 each Tas Fishing and Boating News is having a clearout. We have too many boats and kayaks and some need to go.

Firstly we have an Ocean Kayak Prowler 13 (below) to go. This is one of Australia’s most popular sit on top kayaks and is an excellent fishing yak.

Stable, plenty of room and easy to paddle.

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Standard features; multi chined hull, adjustable foot braces, adjustable padded seat and backrest, mesh gear covers, recessed rod holders, rod notches, moulded cup holder and cockpit bungee tie downs.

L: 3.66m, Waterline Width: 0.71m, Weight: 27kgs, Capacity - 131kgs.

Less than half price at $630.

Kayaks are in Launceston. Phone Mike Stevens: 0418 129 949.

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Fishing News - Page 25

lacked that super fast action of a heavy soft plastic jig head. Out of necessity I started to tie flies on heavier jig hooks and adding small ball sinkers to the perfection loop tied to un-weighted flies, like a Lefty’s Deceiver. This not only gave it a super fast jigging action but when they were tied onto heavy leader material it would turned the fly upside down, just like a jig hook, so that it could be bounced along the bottom without the hook point snagging up on the structure below.

I now use flies with this ultra fast jigging action on many of Tasmania’s saltwater species and with our trout.

Fly Line to Leader Connection During my time in Weipa I had the opportunity to meet Anthony Gomes, who was the editor of the Cape Yorker magazine at the time and a very keen fly fisher, who helped us out with some local knowledge of the area.

Anthony also convinced me to ditch my bulky loop to loop connection when using a clear tip fly line on the flats, by using a nail knot, clinched behind a single over hand knot in the fly line. This connection achieved and a more transparent transition between the fly line and the leader that would still run through the rod eyes without catching. From that piece of advice, I replaced the nail knot to a simple Uni Knot clenched behind the single over hand knot in the fly line. This transition gave me the ability to quickly tie on a new leader when I had a broken or damaged fly line out on the water without the need for a special nail knot tool to make the connection. I still use this same knot for my light tackle salt water lines today but have changed to the super glue connection for my trout lines. But if any one of those fails out on the water and I don’t have access to a needle and some ZapA-Gap glue at the time, I can still use the Uni Knot with confidence to quickly tie on another leader to keep me and my fishing companions fishing.

Floating a nymph up from a weighted fly resulted in this nice NZ brownie.

New Zealand, Long leaders, bombs and floating nymphs The opportunity to adopt or try a new technique or a fly is often only possible when you find yourself struggling to catch a fish you can see. Pulling it all together on the day is often accomplished by drawing on your own experiences and pieces of conversations and advises you have retained over the years. This may have come from someone in the local tackle store or people you have met through fishing. Whenever you gain any type of fishing knowledge, hold onto it, because you might just have to use it one day.

During a recent NZ trip to the South Island with Simon-Peter Hedditch, we did the customary stop at Stu’s Fly Shop in Athol for some last minute flies and to get some local knowledge on the area.

Fortunately for us, Stu was working in the shop that day and we had a good laugh and a chat about all things fishing, we even started to talk about catching Giant Tarpon at one stage of our conversation.

Anyway, the question was finally asked, “What flies

are catching Stu”. Stu grinned and moved towards the endless selection of flies and started to point out the flies he would use or wanted to sell us. But in amongst all of that sales talk, there was some genuine advice given from angler to angler on flies and how to fish some of them. All of which were gladly taken on board for the 10 days we had before us.

One of the standout flies that stuck in my mind was Stu’s size 16 floating nymph which was tied with a foam wing case. Simon and I purchased at least half a dozen of these plus countless others, to rack up an impressive bill at the end of our visit to Stu’s Fly Shop. But local knowledge is priceless in my eyes, especially on a short trip like this and if that means supporting the local fly shop, then I’m all for that.

Stu suggested tying this small floater off the bend of a heavy tungsten nymph so that it would get the size 16 fly down to fish holding on the bottom and still drift naturally past them at eye level. We started off by using both wool and dry flies as indicators above the nymphs and managed to catch a few fish using this system. On our next nymphing day I decided not to use any form of indicator after noticing some fish would stop feeding and shutdown after only a few drifts.

The change to the no indicator approach confirmed my initial thoughts that they were being spooked from the indicator. With no indicator, it was possible to put many more casts over fish to get the right line of drift and far more hook ups, before they shutdown. Some casts were fished using Czech nymph (or European) style while others were fished with longer casts while watching the reaction of the fish or fly line to detect a take.

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Casting long 20 foot leaders without a indicator became much easier as well. Using these techniques, Stu’s little floater was working a treat.

There was nothing new about fishing nymphs without an indicator at the time, it was just the fact that I had never seen fish spook off an indicator like this before and I was in that situation where I had to draw on my past experiences to adapt to the problem at hand. The fact that most of these fish ranged from 4 to 8 pounds probably had something to do with it as well. I had a brief introduction to Czech nymphing in Iceland after spending some time with a couple of anglers from Norway, but never really took it up in Tasmania, even though it was being used here with a great deal of success by

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competition anglers. For me, the real learning from this trip was the use of floating nymphs and how indicators and even large dry flies can spook big wary fish in clear rivers. These days, I am starting to leave the indicators off on our rivers with very pleasing results. I am still no nymphing expert but that doesn’t happen overnight either. I enjoy learning new techniques because it keeps me keen and you never know when you can adopt technique such as these in the saltwater fly fishing scene.

Fishing Guides You can learn a lot from a well researched and respected guide. When I hire a fishing guide I like to make sure I’m going to learn something from the experience by keeping an open mind and being willing to adapt to their way of fishing. I think of it like hiring your own fishing tutor for a day. You can tap into many years of experience when using a guide, particularly when you have limited time to work a place or fish out for yourself. These guides are on the water almost every day and if they are salt water guides they are going to know where the fish are most likely going to be at certain stages of the tides and also the best times of the year to fish an area of interest. I suspect they also pick up a few tips from their clients at times, which can only make them better guides and anglers along the way.

Hiring a guide gives you an instant advantage on local knowledge, approach, and in saltwater, the tides. See if you can get a better looking one than Michael Haley though.

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Frogs Fanny Last year I had the opportunity to break away from my bus tour of Europe and spend a day on a small stream in Florence with a guide from the area. I finally got to use my Sage 000 after carrying with me all over the UK and Europe. I caught a few small trout on CDC emerges and on nymphs using the French nymphing technique. This nymphing technique is very similar to Czech nymphing but also incorporates a 20cm piece of Hi Vis line in the leader to help detect any pause in the line. My guide also shared the identity of the powder he uses to refloat his flies tied with CDC feathers. The powder he used on his CDC flies was actually archery powder.

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When I was back home, I walked into the Essential Fly Fisher in Launceston and asked what product they sells to float CDC and was promptly handed me a bottle of Frogs Fanny. Magic stuff that Frogs Fanny, just like the archery powder in Italy it instantly refloats CDC flies as well as many other dry flies. I always carry a bottle with me now, along with my regular “Gink” to float flies and the leader when I need to.

When the Caenid mayflies are hatching the bottle of Frogs Fanny is now always at hand to refloat my size 16 F-Fly, after each fish. So a single day with a guide in Italy has helped me out on my home waters simply by fishing with someone new. This same advice was available here in Tasmania; it just took me a trip to Italy before I was exposed to it. You know, you can read about these things, but there is nothing quite like experience them first hand to shift the way you view the world of fishing.

Craig Rist

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Fishing News - Page 27

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4.55 Territory Car Topper3.15 Angler $2,490

Complete with: Casting deck with full flat floor, Bow mount plate, Wide side decks, 5 seat Positions Powered by Yamaha 40VMHDL with gas assist $17,990

4.4 Ranger “As tough as they come” 3mm bottom with capped keel, 3mm plate sides, Fully sealed deck, Foam filled, Cast deck / Huge storage, Wide side decks, Splash well. Powered by Yamaha 40 VMHDL 3cyl.

Gas assist tilt, long tiller handle $19,990

4.7 Ranger 4mm Bottom & 3mm plate sides Powered by Yamaha F60 EFI 4 stroke, Tiller, PT & T $29,990

Car Topper 3.75 Angler $3,100

4.55 Tropic Car Topper 3.7 Nomad $3,100

Centre console, Bow mount plate, cast deck, 3mm bottom & plate sides Powered Yamaha F60 EFI 4 Stroke $26,990

Other Car Toppers in stock: 3.55 Angler $2,850 3.5 Nomad $2,850 3.85 Angler $3,500 3.85 Nomad $3,500

4.55 Classic Runabout Complete with: Deluxe lounge, Ultimate edge hull design, Great Family Boat Plate sides, powered by Yamaha 40VETOL $26,990

4.4 Escape Sports Side console, casting deck “Great lake / estuary boat” Powered by Yamaha 40XWTL $21,990

Magnum X Pack Dinghy Complete with: Wide side decks, Rear Step & rail, Gunnel protector rubber, Bow Rails, Rear step and rails.

4.2 Suzuki DT30 $10,990 4.4 Suzuki DT30 $11,990 4.5 Yamaha 40VMHDL $15,990 4.85 Yamaha 60Enduro $19,990

4.4 Seeker Runabout 4.4 Discovery Front & rear casting decks, Tiller steer and Bow mount plate. Powered by Suzuki DT30 $16,990

“Loads of room” Stable & Safe. Painted inside & out, Padded seats, Rear thwart seat, Anchor well.

Powered by Yamaha 40XWTL $18,990 Boats shown are indicative of model only. Motors, colour and setup may not be as shown. Please ask us for exact details and fitout.

Cray Slayers

Easy finance available on all boats.

3mm sides & bottom PLUS splash well, checker plate floor, Wide side decks, Rear Step & rail, Gunnel protector rubber, Bow Rails, Rear step and rails 4.65 Discovery Sports 4.2 Suzuki DT30 $12,990 4.4 Suzuki DT30 $13,990 Powered by Suzuki DF60 EFI 4 Stroke $29,990

Get your family into boating and have fun on the water.

View these boats and more at Cnr Fairlands Dr and Bass Hwy, Somerset

Burnie TAS, 7320 Phone: 6435 2200 E:anthony@coastal-marine.com.au W:www.coastal-marine.com.au Fishing News - Page 28

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

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

Fishing News - Page 29

Fishing News - Page 30

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

Minnow Super Vibrax – new colours The Minnow Super Vibrax spinners are attracting attention, with the correct amount of flash and just the right amount of pulsation the Blue Fox Minnow Super Vibrax has been a hit with trout anglers worldwide.

Rod and Reel

REPAIRS Damon Sherriff’s Sport N Fish

Three new colour patterns join the Minnow Super Vibrax range on the quest of continuing to outcast all other spinners on the planet; Copper, Fire Tiger & Orange Black.

Penn Squall Lever Drag The Most Modern and Innovative Graphite Lever Drag in the Marketplace PENN® engineers have raised the bar for lightweight graphite lever drag reels. The PENN Squall™ Lever Drag incorporates the very latest technology making it the most modern and innovative reel in its class. High-performance and comfortable ergonomics were driving forces during the Squall design.

The Squall Lever Drag features the highest grade drag material available with the Dura-Drag™ system. Four models are offered, two sizes include left hand versions.

Trolling, livebaiting, drift baiting or working the bottom, it makes no difference with the Squall Lever Drag.

Phone 63 822 373

A stop & go retrieve is created as the body vibrates and the blade spins even on the fall. The Minnow Super Vibrax is designed to cast further even when using ultra-light equipment – the longest casting spinner in the world. Cast after cast, this collection of high visibility performers will keep fish coming back for more.

Fishing for Tassie Property?

Tasmania’s Central Highlands is a unique area… sometimes harsh, always appealing and a Mecca for wild trout fishermen from across the globe. Paul Kaine is a local with intimate knowledge and a passion for the Central Highlands and is ready to help you with all your real estate (and even your fishing) needs and advice. Give Paul a call…you’ll find his enthusiasm and know-how is like a breath of fresh mountain air.

Paul Kaine Mobile: 0419 303 160 paulkaine@robertsre.com.au Roberts Regional North 18 Marlborough Street Longford, Tasmania, 7301 Phone: 03 6391 2999

Available in 4g & 6g complete with a single VMC forged hook for increased penetration and the ultimate resistance to opening.

www.robertsre.com.au

Starting at 515 grams, the graphite frame and sideplates are the basis for the lightest reel in its class.

But a reel must be more than just lightweight. The spool is forged and machined aluminum for added weight reduction. The Squall features high strength stainless steel main and pinion gears and a 5+1 shielded stainless steel bearing system. The Dura-Drag™ system includes washers that virtually eliminate hesitation, even under extreme drag settings.

The Versa-Handle™ allows the angler to adjust the reel handle. Extend the handle for cranking power or shorten the handle for more cranking speed. It takes less than a minute to make the change.

Function and ergonomics were on top of the list when the Squall Lever Drag was designed, note the lever drag does not protrude above the frame of the reel. What does this mean to the angler? There is no way for the line to loop over and hang up on the lever drag resulting in a break off.

Sometimes harness lugs are needed, sometimes not.

Clever design has resulted in Switchblade™ Harness Lugs, Switchblade lugs are recessed into the reel frame when fishing, when hooked up they can flicked up to attach a harness. Switchblade™ Harness Lugs are available on the 50 and 60 size.

As an added bonus, there are three line capacity rings on the spool flange which show the angler 1/3, 2/3, and full capacities on the reel.

Model SQL30LD weighs 515 grams and has a max drag of 6kg while maintaining freespool. The gear ratio is 6.1:1 and 92cm of line are retrieved with each full rotation of the handle in high gear.

Model SQL40LD, also available in left hand, weighs 591 grams and has a max drag of 10kg. The gear ratio is 5.1:1 and line retrieve is 92cm.

Model SQL50LD weighs 775 grams and has a max drag of 13kg. Model SQL60LD, also available in left hand, weighs 795 grams and has a max drag of 15kg.

The gear ratio is 4.3:1 and line retrieve of 87cm for both the 50 and 60.

Want a ride this smooth?

Graphite Frame and Sideplates 5 Shielded Stainless Steel Bearings + IAR Line Capacity Rings on Spool Dura-Drag™

With a Quintrex Millennium Hull, the ride is always smooth. Choppy becomes calm. How do we do it? By stretch-forming aluminium

Versa-Handle™

we create a variable dead rise hull with a deep V design that slices through water. It’s an award winning process unique to Quintrex Withoffers a Quintrex Millennium Hull, the ride is aluminium always smooth.

Choppy calm. How do we it?easy By stretch-forming that the softest, quietest, driest riding hull your hardbecomes earned money can buy!

It’sdothe way to enjoy thealuminium water…

Switchblade Lugs

we create a variable dead rise hull with a deep V design that slices through water. It’s an award winning process unique to Quintrex

Ratcheted drag lever

that offers the softest, quietest, driest riding aluminium hull your hard earned money can buy! It’s the easy way to enjoy the water…

Stainless steel main and pinion gear

Boating Made easy. Quintrex. www.quintrex.com.au or phone 1300 727 188 for your nearest dealer.

Visit the PENN Australian website at pennfishing.com.au

273 Kennedy Dr, Cambridge www.lewismarine.com.au

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

Ph: 6248 3222

Fishing News - Page 31

Shimano Stella 4000Sw Wins Best Reel At Afta Show Shimano’s Stella 4000SW spin reel has won the prestigious Best New Reel category at the Australian Fishing Tackle Association trade show held at the Gold Coast in August.

The 4000SW joins its six larger brothers and is packed with features like 14 SA-RB bearings, Paladin Gear Treatment and EI Surface Treatment for increased corrosion resistance in a saltwater environment.

A gear ratio of 6.2:1 recovers 95 centimetres of line with each turn of the handle, and Dyna-Balance keeps retrieves wobble-free, no matter how fast you’re winding.

The Stella 4000SW casts sweetly thanks to Aero Wrap II and the Propulsion Spool Lip managing line as it enters and leaves the Cold Forged AR-C spool. It holds 220 metres of four kilo mono or 250 metres of 15 pound Power Pro braid. A maximum drag setting of 11 kilos means that this reel, while small in stature, is big on stopping power and can be used on a variety of inshore and offshore sportfish.

Power Pro Bite Motion Best Braid in Show The braided line market is pretty crowded these days, but Power Pro was recognised by the industry as the best new braid at the Australian Fishing Tackle Association trade show back in August.

Ideal for finesse fishing from freshwater trout to snapper, Bite Motion is available in 3, 5, 8, 10, 15, 20 and 30 pound breaking strains on 150 metre spools.

Bite Motion is a high visibility orange in colour, making it perfect for situations where using the line as a bite indicator is vital to success, but its visibility is enhanced even further by the presence of 13 centimetre black sections every metre.

Against the orange main line, these are easy to see, and all you have to do is watch them closely and strike the moment they move. The black marks can also prove handy in targeting fish at a specific depth, or setting up a tight trolling spread.

Of course, Bite Motion is well suited to fishing scenarios where braided lines’ many attributes like fine diameter, high breaking strain and zero stretch are beneficial, but for fishing in tricky situations such as fast current and/or wary fish, it is without peer.

All New Ocean Kayak Prowler Ultra 4.1 Ocean Kayak is continually striving to improve on many of their already successful models. The all new Prowler 4.1 is their latest kayak that is built on the proven performance of the classic Prowler 13. It has all the features a keen fisherman could possibly want and is made from the same robust, hard wearing polyethylene as other Ocean Kayak models.

The Ocean Kayak Prowler Ultra 4.1 is a kayak that has excellent hull speed and great stability coupled with superb manoeuvrability for optimising angling opportunities. It is a breeze to paddle and features include four flush mount rod holders, two moulded carry handles, click-seal front hatch, large rear well and Cannon rod holder inserts. It is also supplied standard with comfort seat, centre mod pod hatch, side imaging capable transducer, scupper, paddle holders and a wear skeg.

This kayak is available with or without rudder.

For more information on this great Ocean Kayak model visit www.bla.com.au

Mercury unbeatable 4060hp FourStroke offer Save up to $800!

For 20 years Mercury has been the world’s premier producer of FourStroke power – and now you can enjoy that excellence and save big money too!

From now until March 28th 2013, you can save $500 on an unbeatable Mercury FourStroke outboard from 40-60hp. And if you go with the brilliant Big Tiller option then you’ll save another $300, making $800 in all.* No one offers a more advanced, more powerful selection of four-stroke outboards than Mercury Marine. Not content with conventional technology, Mercury pioneered and patented electronic

The new Quintrex Renegade Series is here.

Available in tiller, side or centre console — from 4.2 to 5.2 metres.

Powered with E-Tec or Honda 4Stroke.

For more information or a customised quote on a new Quintrex Renegade to suit you contact Deegan Marine today.

102 Eastlands Drive, Ulverstone, Tas 7315 Ph: 6425 2238 www.deeganmarine.com.au info@deeganmarine.com.au Fishing News - Page 32

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

fuel injection (EFI), and integrated it into our proven 4060hp FourStroke range, bringing an entirely new level of performance to the four-stroke category.

• Rod piece alignment dots • Anodized aluminum reel seat • Full wells handle with fighting butt • Cordura rod case • Lifetime warranty These rods offer excellent value for money with a RRP$249.

Contact Mayfly Tackle Pty Ltd (03) 9899 0034 for your closest stockist to view the Ross FlyStik.

At cruise, a Mercury 40hp EFI FourStroke is 39% more fuel efficient and costs less to maintain than a comparable carburetted two-stroke. You get longer spark life and none of the gumming, decarbonisation or ring-and-cylinder issues of carburetted two-strokes.

FourStroke means better fuel efficiency, reduced emissions and a smoother ride, without sacrificing power or performance.

At top speed, a Mercury 50hp FourStroke is nearly 2.41 km/h faster than its sister TwoStroke and 30% quieter based on comparative tests conducted by Mercury Marine R & D. The single-overhead-cam configuration and long-stroke design of Mercury’s 40-60hp FourStroke engines increase torque for excellent acceleration, even with heavy loads.

Additionally, the compact design coupled with a highoutput alternator makes them exceptionally desirable.

Mercury FourStrokes boast more stainless steel, hard anodizing and an exclusive multistep paint process and are backed by a 3 Year Corrosion Warranty.

Reliable Turnkey Starting. Mercury’s EFI system delivers something boaters crave – reliable turnkey starts every time.

M e r c u r y ’ s 4 0 - 6 0 h p Fo u r S t r o k e s c a r r y a n environmentally friendly OEDA 3-Star ultra-low emissions rating.

On top of all that, Mercury Marine’s BigTiller handle gives fishermen and commercial operators just what they want – more room in the boat and simple hands-on control of the engine.

Centre-mounted, the Big Tiller provides safe and effortless steering with fingertip control.

Now that’s one unbeatable 40-60hp FourStroke offer – you can save up to $800 and it doesn’t matter if you are a recreational or commercial boater.

To find your nearest participating Mercury dealer, and to see full details of this great offer, simply visit www. mercurymarine.com.au

Ross FlyStik The FlyStik series are tournament length fly rods at 7’11” that could be legally fished in the Bass master Classic in the USA! However they suit Australian conditions for our native fish species perfectly. These rods are ideal for yak anglers were the shorter length allows casting in tight spots were your favourite bass or cod wait in ambush, chasing Barra up mangrove creeks, no problem as the shorter length allows so much control in confined spaces yet packs amazing power for turning over your favourite popper or weighted whistler.

Available in 6wt. 8wt. and 10wt. sizes, these sticks will comfortably handle floating lines, sink tips and shooting heads. The FlyStik series is crafted from our proprietary R2 graphite design with a medium-fast action taper; perfect for effortlessly casting big flies into tight places. The FlyStik series fly rods are powerful, smooth casting rods that look as good as they perform!

The perfect fly rods for...

• Chucking big flies into mangroves from the front of a boats casting platform • Swinging flies to bass and cod in a wild and scenic river • Winning a bass tournament ...and these are just a few of the things that you can do with these incredible rods!

The FlyStik rod series comes with the following standard features: • Ross proprietary R2 graphite design • Medium-fast action rod taper, perfect for heavy flies • 4-piece design - great for travel! Overall length in tube 720mm or 28.5 inches • Smooth casting, powerful and precise • Titanium oxide, super strong guides

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

Rapala.com.au Receives a Facelift Updated to a new layout, Rapala.com.au now provides the latest news in new products, company history and contact information. As well as this, the new website structure boasts a direct newsfeed from the company’s popular Facebook page, Rapala Australia; making it easier than ever to stay in tune with everything “Rapala”.

Check out entire new product ranges such as the Clackin’ Magnum, BX Minnow and X-Rap CountDown; including in depth video demonstrations on how to use each lure!

Rapala is also the leading fishing knife producer in the world and leading fishing tool developer; information on all these and more can be located easily via the new homepage rapala.com.au

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

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

Fishing News - Page 33

Tasmanian Bream Classic

Round one - Georges Bay St Helens 9-10 February

D

ay one saw what can only be described as the worst weather in ABT history. Electric motors were broken and courage was tested as 30 teams battled it out for the coveted round one of the Tasmanian Bream Classic.

As we all know Tasmania is the wild state and Saturday’s weather was certainly NO EXCEPTION. However, like always spirits were high and for those few that stuck it out rewards were sweet.

With a mix of anglers new and old, many anglers skills were tested and many new methods of fishing were discovered. But as always, experience has prevailed.

Team Tackle Us for the second year in a row showed the field that quality fish always means more than numbers. Tackle Us team mate Andrew Wells pulled a lovely Bream of 1.52kg and all though a small fish in comparison to their fish from the same time last year, managed to secure the big bream and the lead on day one.

Day One results

A lucky bream about to swim away. All competition caught bream are released.

1. Tackle Us 5/5.450 2. Cranka II 5/4.430 3. Berkley Samurai Reaction 5/ 3.790 4. Cranka 5/3.520 5. True Tails 5/3.450 6. Howler custom rods / Nano technology 4/3.430 7. Howler custom rods / Tonic 5/3.360 8. Down town tackle / Howler 4/2.810 9. Bream it on 5/2.730 10. Brum 4/2.620 11. Tangles 4/2.480 12. Tamar marine 3/2.450 13. Liquid Gold Fishing / Lox 3/2.450 14. Catch it / Tairyorods3/1.900 15. Tail Chasers 2/1.730 16. Rippin lips 3/1.440

Day two saw a light cool change with calm water at the start. Teams had a window of about three hours until the breeze became strong. Lots of fish passed through the scales, only to find that the weight of the bags were not there. Lots of small fish but more of them. Not one Big bream weighed in which left Andrew Well from Team Tackle Us Taking out the Cranka Big Bream prize weighing in at 1.520kg. With the defending champs from last year Cranka II sitting on top early at weigh with 10/10 8.650kg in waiting for Day 1 leaders to step up to the scales. Team Tackle Us needed a quality bag to keep them in the lead and they only just scraped in with only 50grms between them. Not far behind them were Team Cranka taking out third spot with 10/10 8.020kg All in all everything went well and we look forward to see the field of thirty teams at The Swan River for round 2.

1. Team Tackle Us Andrew Wells/John Lister D1 5/5 5.450kg D2 5/5 3.250kg. 10/10 8.700kg Big Bream 1.520kg 2. Team Cranka II Darrell Wells/Isaac Harris D1 5/5 4.430kg D2 5/5 4.220kg. 10/10 8.650kg 3. Team Cranka Andrew Cox/Steve Steer D1 5/5 3.520kg D2 5/5 4.500kg 10/10 8.020kg 4. Team Berkley Samri Reaction Rods Liegh McKenzie Patrick Sullivan D1 5/5 3.790kg D2 5/5 3.280kg 10/10 7.070kg 5. Team Howler Custom Rods Nano Series Grant Stingel/ Steve Bond D1 4/5 3.430kg D2 5/5 3.410kg 9/10 6.840kg 6. Team True Tails Heath Krushka/Adam haley D1 5/5 3.450kg D2 5/5 2.540kg 10/10 5.990kg

17. Evolution jig heads 1/1.410 18. Eastern shore fishing tackle 2/1.340 19. Trade link 2/1.330 20. Penguin Composites / Tas Fish 2/880 21. Burger Mc Friebie 1/790 22. All hers / Big Fin 2/770 23. Feeling fuzzy 2/700 24. Ranger 2/690 25. Stormy 1/560 26. Secret Squirrels 0/0 27. Howler custom rods 0/0 28. Sebille old fella’s 0/0 29. Half done plumbing vs” s!!t” hot building 0/0 30. Aus tackle 0/0

David and Aaron Mercer getting set for day 2.

Boats ready for Summer Fun Stacer boats in stock and ready for you 359 Seasprite SS Dinghy Only $2,300 449 Seahawk Runabout, Trailer & 50hp Mercury 2 stk (60hrs) pre-owned $16,000 ono 449 Seahawk Runabout, Extruded sides & aft rails $12,800 6.6 Olympian Razerline, Alloy Trailer, 200L6 Mercury Verado $110,000 now $85,000 not negotiable Quicksilver Inflatable 340 Sports model $2,200

Fishing News - Page 34

Port Sorell Marine

Ph 6428 7124 Shopping Centre, Club Drive, Shearwater www.portsorellmarine.com.au

Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat: 9am - 2pm, Closed Sun. www.tasfish.com - Get the knowledge - Get the fish.

7. Team Liquid Gold/Lox Damien virieux/Andrew Pender D1 3/5 2.440kg D2 3/5 3.150kg 6/10 5.590kg

FOR SALE

Haines Hunter V133 rebuilt by Penguin Composites recently for Tasmanian Fishing and Boating News. This superb little fibreglass boat is the same as the current HH Seawasp with features that include: 55lb Minn Kota iPilot bow mount electric, on board smart charger, dedicated 120 AH Absorbed Glass Mat battery for Minn Kota, plumbed live well, rod storage for 6 rods to 10 feet, separate starting battery, rear storage, sensational BF 50 Honda four stroke with trim and tilt (less than 20 hrs), all on an as new trailer. A perfect boat for estuary and lake. Superb soft and quiet ride. Very quiet and stable to fish from. Nothing to spend. A build like this would be at least $22K, with motor alone costing $10K. Offers around $13,000. Phone 0418 130 012.

8. Team Bream It On Josh Williams/Nigel Harris D1 5/5 2.730kg D2 4/5 2.300 9/10 5.030kg

4 metre Haines Hunter

9. Team Howler Custom Rods/Tonic Eye Ware Justin Causby/Marcus Popowski D1 5/5 3.360kg D2 3/5 1.330kg 8/10 4.690kg 10. Team Tangles Andrew Krushka/Jonty Krushka D1 4/5 2.480kg D2 4/5 1.950kg 8/10 4.430kg 11. Team Berger McFriebi Andy Nackers Mc/Wayne Friebi D1 1/5 790g D2 5/5 3.230kg 6/10 4.020kg 12. Team Easternshore Fishing & Tackle Andrew Dyson/David Appleyard D1 2/5 1.340kg D2 5/5 2.670kg 7/10 4.010kg 13. Team Downtown Tackle/ Howler Camo Series Shane Ling/Dean Blair D1 4/5 2.810kg D2 1/5800g 5/10 3.610kg 14. Team Brum Danni Suttil/Antony Suttil D1 4/5 2.620kg D2 1/5 880g 5/10 3.500kg 15. Team Tail Chasers Johnny D/Greg Kowalski D1 2/5 1.730kg D2 2/5 1.540kg 4/10 3.270kg 16. Team Aus Tackle Garry Alexander/Greg Woods D1 0/5 D2 5/5 3.220kg 5/10 3.220kg 17. Team Tamar Marine/Duo Lures Dan Dertesi/ Travis Bryan D1 3/5 2.450kg D2 1/5 580g 4/10 3.030kg 18. Team Catch It/Tairyo Rods Tony Robinson/ Kevin Vaux D1 3/5 1.900kg D2 1/5 1.080kg 4/10 2.980kg 19. Team Rippin Lips Jason Mathews/Chris Kilby D1 3/5 1.440kg D2 4/5 1.490kg 7/10 2.930kg 20. Team Sebile Old Fellows Laurie Harrisons/Martin Exel D1 0/5 D2 4/5 2.810kg 4/10 2.810kg

100% Made in Japan.

Designed specifically for the Australian Market.

21. Team Ranger Nathan Creely/ Tim Claxton D1 2/5 690g D2 2/5 1.630kg 4/10 2.320kg

24. Team Tradelink Liegh Crosswell/Tom Farrel D1 2/5 1.330kg D2 2/5 600g 4/10 1.930kg 25. Team All Hers/Big Fin Fishing Lisa Egglestone/Andrew Egglestone D1 2/5 770g D2 2/5 900g 4/10 1.670kg

ViBRatiON 40mm / 4.8g PENciL 55mm / 4.9g

BLuES cODE

45mm, 60mm, 90mm, 115mm / Sinking

DuPLEx

65mm 18g / 80mm 31g

cRaNk 38mm, 45mm, Super Shallow, Shallow, Deep, Super Shallow, Deep

LOaDED 180mm 75g Floating

140mm 43g Floating / 140mm 55g Sinking

MEtaL Jig

JERkBait 50mm, 70mm, 90mm, 110mm, 130mm / Shallow & Deep

SHaD 45mm 3.4g Depth 1.5mtr

Colours: 12 colours size: 3.5 Weights: 30g, 40g Diving Depths: 5-30m (30g), 10-50m (40g)

Egi Sutte-R Colours: 8 colours avail in size 1.5 and 1.8, 12 colours in 2.2 and 2.5, 14 colours in 3.0 and 3.5 sizes: 1.5, 1.8, 2.2, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 BuoyanCy: Sinking size lengths Weights sinking speeDs 1.5 4.5cm 3.0g 8.0-9.0 sec/m 1.8 5.4cm 5.0g 8.0-9.0 sec/m 2.2 6.6cm 6.5g 4.0-4.5 sec/m 2.5 10cm 10g 4.0-4.5 sec/m 3.0 11.5cm 15g 3.0-3.5 sec/m 3.5 13cm 20g 3.0-3.5 sec/m

/ 55mm 5.7 g Depth 1.8 - 2mtr

NEw momentum 4x4 High Grade polyethylene and high specific gravity ester monofilaments in a 4 x 4 structure for an amazing slick and smooth line surface.

Available in Fl Yellow or Dark Green.150m: 10lb(PE0.6) 12lb(PE0.8) 16lb(PE1) 20lb(PE1.2) 200m: 30lb(PE2) 40lb(PE2.5) 50lb(PE3)

v harD 100% Fluorocarbon.

Highest sensitivity and abrasion resistance.

Available in 50m Spool: 2lb to 50lb

NEw

Made in Japan

30. Team Half Done Plumbing vs Shit Hot Building Trent Medelssohn/ D1 0/5 D2 0/5

Colours: 9 colours in size 1.5, 15 colours in size 1.8, 15 colours in size 2.2 sizes: 1.5, 1.8, 2.2 sink rates: Basic, Shallow, Deep

Egi Oh DD Spider

27. Team Feeling Fuzzy Dane Cuthbertson/Nick Millwood D1 1/5 700g D2 2/5 670g 3/10 1.370kg

29. Team Secret Squirrels Jason Chan/Andrew Towns D1 0/5 D2 1/5 710g 1/10 710g

for See 3 LiVEiteJigS Buywebs iques techn and tips E.au 1 fRE gEt d.com .ejtod www for details d.com.au see www.ejtod

Tuned to target bream, bass and trout.

Owner hooks and rings.

26. Team Howler Custom Rods Tom Viny/Ben Johnson D1 0/5 D2 3/5 1.660kg 3/10 1.660kg

28. Team Stormy Matt Dyson/Ken Beatson D1 1/5 560g D2 2/5 760g 3/10 1.320kg

Colours: 46 colours in Regular; 20 colours in Shallow, 20 colours in Deep sizes: 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 (Shallow 3.5 only and Deep models available in 2.5 or 3.5) sink rates: Shallow, Regular, Deep

Naory Range Hunter

22. Team Penguin Composites/ Tasfish.com David Mercer/ Aaron Mercer D1 2/5 880g D2 2/5 1.230kg 4/10 2.110kg 23. Team Evolution Jigheads Jason Kerrison/Zac Kerrison D1 1/5 1.410kg D2 1/5 650g 2/10 2.060kg

Egi Oh Q Live

super pe Excellent durability, low stretch, high sensitivity with a smooth surface manufacturing process. Available in 150m and 300m in Bright Green, White and Dk Green.6lb to 80lb

monster Battle pe Designed specifically for throwing poppers, stickbaits or metals at GTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or Tuna. The sky blue colour is marked every 48m with a 2m black band.

Made in Japan. Available in 300m spool: 50lb(PE3) to 130lb(PE10)

FC roCk 100% Fluorocarbon High sensitivity and abrasion resistance while remaining supple.Available in 100m spool: 2lb to 20lb 70m spool: 25lb & 30lb 50m spool: 40lb & 50lb

shooter FC metan invisiBle 100% Fluorocarbon alternating between Dk Brown, Green and Grey for stealth presentations.

Available in 100m spool: 2lb to 6lb 75m spool: 8lb to 30lb

SUNLINE DEALERS

For more information visit W: www.ejtodd.com.au E:btodd@ejtodd.com.au

Tackle Power Charlestown........................................ ph 4943 8780 Sandgate ............................................ ph 4960 1294 windsor BaiT & Tackle

FisHinG Tackle aUsTralia www.motackle.com.au ........................ ph 6652 4611 GaBes BoaTinG & FisHinG Sylvania .............................................. ph 9522 5100

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

FreddYs FisHinG world Broadmeadow .................................... ph: 4927 Erina .................................................. ph: 4367 Greenhills .......................................... ph: 4934 GoT one PorT sTePHens ..................... ph: 4984

6627 5555

Fishing News - Page 8734 35 4459

Jan’s Jan Spencer

A

round the state at the moment there is a multitude of insects of every size and description from tiny midge to large grasshoppers.

On a recent trip to my favourite remote western lake I noticed the abundance of craneflies. Walking in scrubby areas and brushing past the bushes would put out dozens of these insects. Most days in this area there is wind and even though craneflies are quite large they are delicate. It does not take much wind to push them onto the water and trout certainly have them on the menu.

Being inquisitive I seem to spend as much time in and around the bushes as I do fishing. On one expedition into a pencil pine grove I found the mating ritual of the crane fly going on. I have not seen so much excitement in the highlands for many years. This gave me time to have a close look at these insects. The female is quite different to the male, the most common to be seen.

There are a number of species of craneflies in Australia. The larvae can live in water but can also be found around decaying timber and damp soil. I have on odd occasions found the maggot-like larvae in trout’s stomach contents but it is the male adult that is of interest to trout The following fly pattern is one I have used for a number of years with great success, particularly on the Great Lake sharks. The buzzer hook on this

Flies

pattern is important as the bend and the point sits well away from the body making a really good hook up rate.

The Crane Fly Hook:

Light gauge buzzer hook size 10.

Thread: Brown (6/10).

Body:

Grey tube bodiz in a larger size.

Legs: Four long fibres from a pheasant tail feather.

Thorax: Brown seal fur.

Hackle: One bronze whting coq de loen rooster saddle feather.

Method Take the brown tube bodiz and thread a needle through the hollow centre that is end to end. Now clamp the needle in your vice with the tail end protruding. With some burnt orange thread, make a few turns around the body a little way in from the pointed body tip, whip finish this over the turns you have made, cut thread away and place a drop of varnish over turns. Cut the very point off the end of the body giving it a blunt end. Slip body off needle.

Place hook in vice and take thread back along the shank to the point where the hook starts to take a major bend.

Place the prepared body on top of hook shank, tie down firmly with 1cm of the body protruding at the rear.

Take the thread back along the hook shank and make four more turns over the body. Secure the body to the shank, make sure all this is kept back from the hook eye a little.

Tie two pheasant feather fibres in each side of the body, keeping them long. Cut excess fibres away.

Dub some brown seal’s fur for the thorax. There should be some of the fat end of the body. Make sure the thorax is dubbed around this so it sits up vertical to take the parachute hackle.

Tie in the bronze coq de leon rooster saddle feather to the side of the post. Cut away excess feather stem. Carefully wind the feather around the post four times with the thread, wind this through the hackle to secure. Bring the thread down over the thorax and wind a few turns behind the eye. Whip finish and varnish.

Cut the feather tip away and shorten post to your requirement.

A cranefly has six legs, but four on this pattern are sufficient. The parachute hackle will serve as a leggy look as well as wings. This fly floats really well as the tube bodiz are hollow. These bodies are available from Essential Fly Fisher in Launceston.

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Fishing News - Page 36

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Cormorants Daniel Hackett

The black death! Plagues! Devastation!..

There’s no doubt that since last summer, flocks of cormorants have wreaked sporadic havoc on our fisheries, and that anglers are pretty annoyed. I’ve fished a half-dozen Western Lake lagoons that have been cleaned out by cormorants, a favourite black spinner broadwater was cleaned out by a flock of 140 birds (all 2 kilometres of it), and a couple of my favourite headwaters along the Western Tiers seem void of any trout. This experience comes on the back of my tenth season guiding in Tasmania, and prior to that, my profession as a fish-farmer where cormorants were also a problem.

As an angling community, what do we do? String ‘em up, blow’em up and shoot them down? This seems to be the passionate plea from across the online forums. Soon to follow are pleads for annual river-stockings to replenish the rivers. But will these suggestions work on what are seasonal plagues?

After all, our fisheries have thrived in periods since previous cormorant years, and in fact, some of the older hands have passed comment on how large the remaining fish became in previously affected rivers, following such events!

My gut feeling is that both culling and stocking are not the answers. The concept of culling highly mobile flocks of wild birds (an emotive topic in itself) would quite likely not work. Small groups of localised birds may be controlled, but the large flocks would move on, just the same as they do when a food source becomes scarce. And what about stocking? I strongly believe that stocking is a very poor choice.

Young and small fish would only serve to sustain the natural boom cycle of the bird population, sustain the localised impacts, and prolong the boom period. As with previous plagues (the early

noughties saw years with high numbers of cormorants), the boom needs to run its course, and bird numbers will rapidly decline naturally (which I believe is already occurring).

The fisheries will come back by their own selfrecruiting means. The Cormants sharing a roost with ducks on the Derwent River. remaining fish, along so let’s see it happen. Anglers and clubs can even with the valuable wild genetics that enabled them chip-in themselves: most of us have a local stretch to survive predation and keep the fishery going, will of river we fish, adjacent to private land. Offer to breed, and a strong fishery will re-bound. help the landowner with fencing off riverbanks, or So what then­, should we sit on our hands and do nothing? Not at all I’d say. How about we look at our offer to plant a few native seedlings. These will stabilise the banks overtime, and as they get older, bag limits? Generally, the bag limits on our rivers provide shelter for the trout. are 12 fish per day. Surely if fish stock numbers are the problem, then why not limit our catch? It is a no-brainer, and ‘fishing for the future’ surely means keeping only what the fishery can sustain?

And how about managing the fishery environment?

Many times over, published fisheries research has shown that the re-introduction and management of stable structure and minimum flow rates in our rivers can increase fish numbers by more than 30%, and increase the average size by more than 30% at the same time! How good is that! Large woody debris, vibrant weed-beds, stable undercut banks and a healthy riparian zone are all needed for a healthy fishery, yet none of our fisheries efforts are put towards co-ordinated eco-system management on our rivers. Managing the fisheries environment is well within the role of the Inland Fisheries Service,

Ultimately, my feeling is that this plague is passing. Smaller, open streams such as the upper Meander and St Patricks rivers have certainly featured less obvious trout numbers since last autumn, though a lot of fish have moved to the faster, deeper sections, log jams, and other highcover areas where they are less accessible to both birds and anglers. Many shallow Western Lake’s lagoons have been heavily predated, but these will re-populate as winter floods link the catchments once again. This fishing season has been hard for even the old hands, and cormorants are just part of the bigger picture. As long as we manage our fisheries, and the fisheries habitats, then we will have healthy fisheries for the future.

Dan Hackett

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Fishing News - Page 37

A new boat from your old glass clunker Penguin Composites specialises in taking your old fibreglass boat and building it into a modern, practical fishing platform.

There are many excellent boats around that just need a revamp to bring them up

to date. Yours could be one of them.

That could mean a pod on the back or a total make over from a cuddy cab or runabout to a terrific little bay, estuary, lake, bream or trout boat.

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TEAM PENN INTERNATIONAL

P

Off shore game fishing team

ENN Australia has proudly affiliated with four of Tasmania’s prominent offshore fisherman.

From this

To this

Many years of fishing experience has been coupled with PENN International and its continued support of the Tasmanian fishing community.

The Teams flagship Barcrusher “Double Black”, supplied and serviced by Coastal Marine, has been treated to a spectacular vinyl wrap depicting PENN International artwork.

Ever since Otto Henze founded the PENN Fishing Tackle Company in 1932 they have been at the forefront of modern reel design and production.

About TEAM PENN

From this

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Clinton Howe and John Farrell are two team members who bring a huge amount of competition knowledge and success to the group. The two men have been involved in Game fishing and Offshore Competition since anyone can remember. There tackle knowledge and experience fishing Tasmanian waters is capital M MASSIVE. Adrian “MOZZ” Morrisby and Kelly “HOOCH” Hunt shake this team up. While not having the competition pedigree of Clinton and John, they are super keen fisherman who bring a distinct degree of competiveness and FUN to the table. Both have had success in Tasmanian Motorsport and bring their love of LIFE and good times to the contest.

From this

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It’s a unique combination that promises to bring entertainment and success in good measure.

About PENN International PENN prides themselves on the fact that millions of experienced anglers around the world put their faith in using PENN products every day.

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PENN International is continuing to place in Tasmania, the skill, knowledge and passion gained over the 75 plus years of designing and manufacturing fishing equipment.

If you see the Team at competition or a boat ramp near you, feel free to come up and say G’day and have a chat.

For more information Kelly on 0428861710 or Adrian 0419743291

Coastal Marine & Shimano Australia

To this

From this So if you have an old clunker that you think has the makings of a modern sporty, practical boat give us a call.

We also do simple or complex repairs to hulls, floors, replace transoms and

love anything to do with fibreglass and other composites.

Call our manager - mad fisherman and ‘The Man of Glass’, David Mercer and have a chat.

Ph: 03 6437 2791 808 South Road, Penguin, Tasmania 7316 Fishing News - Page 38

The Tasmanian Family Fishing Festival - St Helens Saturday April 27th 2013 Adults $20 - Kids u/16 $10 St Helens Foreshore

Registrations 7am-8am Fishing 8am-2pm Weigh in 2pm-4pm. Presentations at 5pm All entrants must be present to be eligible for the prizes. Fish off a jetty or a boat….. anyone can enter with lots of fantastic prizes up for grabs.

For more information contact: Garry Pannan-63763298 Jamie Henderson-63762244 Or like us on Facebook

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to the boat and make a call what they are going to throw at it. In a line class competition I can see the point in this. Today’s comp was heaviest fish and Tag & Release so we had our medium size trace’s and hooks in baits out the back. Our feeling is a timid specimen will take the bait at the back of the boat as it comes up the trail. GULP!!!A lot of times when they arrive at the back of the boat they can be a little ginger. Time is of the essence in this competition.

We had a PENN International 50vsw spooled with 37 kg looking after the whole Mullet under the balloon this was mounted on PENN’s signature Power Curve rod.

Game Fishing

Coastal Marine Early Bird Challenge

J

anuary 5th 2013 could not have come any sooner for Team PENN International- Double Black.

The Coastal Marine Early Bird 1000 is the first cab off the rank for Game Fishing competitions in Tasmania. It was also was our first competitive outing with the awesome PENN wrap.

Richard from Xfactor signs had flown over on the Thursday before the Comp and laid it on.

The Mighty Double Black, flagship of Team PENN International never looked so good!!

Early starts go hand in hand with Game Fishing competition and the boat was hooked up and heading toward the Devonport Yacht Club before the sun had even looked like coming up.

We wanted to get the Double Black launched early and secure one of the limited spots on the pontoon out the front. That would allow a swift getaway when the briefing was finished and competition bags were handed out on entry status.

Graham Purton from “Bugger Work” was very keen to get burley down, evident by the spirited trot he had down the stairs and jog across the yacht club grass. Hooch rounded him up with ease and we were off !

On board we had Captain Adrian “Mozza” Morrisby, Kelly “Hooch” Hunt, Damien “Squeak” Grimwood and Pete Bailey. This was the “B Team” as two of Team PENN’s starting 4 were heavily involved in the running of the event.

Second boat clear of the river mouth, we had throttles down and heading for a spot that has accounted for good fish previously. Moving along at a good clip and taking in a nice thunderstorm we arrived to put burley down 40 minutes later.

We like to run two pots of burley of slightly different nature and consistency, so they go out on opposite corners. The first hour normally see’s these thawed and distributed at different rates, and this is good, as it allows refills to be staggered and maintain a constant flow of burley without a gap in the trail.

We had a stroke of good luck on our pre fish a few weeks prior, and had in our trail a massive school of juvenile Couta. We caught and cubed those mixing them with some tuna oil and froze them down. They were making fantastic cubes as the sun started its climb into the sky. Great size, part of the Mako’s food chain and flashy and silver.

Waiting is a massive part of most fishing endeavours and this is no exception. On occasion we have pulled up on top of Mako at this spot and had two at the boat in under an hour.

NOT today.

Once we had the trail substantiated, we placed bait back in the trail on the customary balloon. There seems to be a bit of division locally about doing so. A lot of anglers at the minute like to have the fish come

We fished hard for another 30 minutes and but, “time” was called as the worsening conditions would have us having a crack to get back by 2 30pm cut off.

Team PENN – Double Black Bar Crusher handled the conditions with aplomb and we were back with a little time to spare. The Team flagship was a massive crowd favourite and looked awesome.

A huge well done from Team PENN International to the anglers featured in the results. We found ourselves in a tie for 3rd place in Tag and release.

Pleasing to see James Lee using a big PENN 80 in capturing the winning fish, top job lads!

We worked the burley pots and cubes like demons for zero result. Three hour mark and the natives were restless. The Team had some nice fresh squid baits caught the day before and it started to get to us, they were not in the water !

While buckets were jiggled and cubes plopped we rigged up one of the Squids on another PENN International 50 vsw/Power Curve combo spooled with 24kg.

We had a sea anchor out but the conditions still had us drifting quite swiftly. Rigging 2 breakaway sinkers at the wind-on / trace junction placed the bait deep into the trail where we wanted it.

We were monitoring radio chat and we knew Jason Ivory out of Black Pearl had tagged one. We felt when Archie Cashion came over the radio with…. “Sorry I missed the radio SKED- BIT ON !”

He may have something to weigh.

Other than that it was a fairly slow day.

Feeling other teams may have been putting up the white flag or asleep in the front of their boats we rallied.

We pulled in the Burley buckets and filled with a couple of freshies.

Hooch set about tea bagging them like a machine. Mozz wanted the Mullet in and the small Tuna we had on board rigged under the balloon and that was done.

Half an hour later the clicker on the PENN 50 VSW looking after the balloon rig started to talk. The rod was in hand with drag pressure managed to pay out to a feeding Mako. Mozz set the hook and called to clear the deck.

He let us know it was a small fish and to ready the Tag gear that had been laid out ready to go some hours ago.

A short tussle and the Mako was boat side with a tag in ready for release. The “release” was a lot cleaner than most, as amazingly he was not hooked but in fact “half Hitched” with the bait and hook trailing beside him.

The trace had wound its self around his lower jaw and locked down on his teeth with the aid of a half hitch! Very lucky to get boat side and tag.

Having not moved off our trail, we re-set the gear and tried to rouse up another.

Heaviest Shark Capture 1st – James Lee on Soak n Fused – 99.8kg Mako Shark 2nd – Brad O’Halloran on JEHU – 92.0kg Mako Shark Tag and Release 1st and 2nd Draw between equal Tag and Release Points Boats – Draw as below.

1st – Hammerhead II 2nd – Black Pearl 3rd – A draw between Boats - May Phine, Madness, Serial Killer, Team PENN International – Double Black, Ruffnut and Grim Reaper – Draw Saw Ruffnut take the 3rd Prize Category Report by Kelly Hunt

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Fishing News - Page 39

RECREATIONAL SEA FISHERIES NEWS Understanding the Recreational Fishery for Southern Bluefin Tuna

By Sean Tracey, Recreational Fisheries Research Scientist - Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania Southern Bluefin Tuna (SBT) is one of the most iconic fish species in the world. They are distributed around the southern hemisphere and this population constitutes one genetic stock, due primarily to their longdistance ocean wandering behaviour.

Southern Bluefin Tuna Management and Fishing Pressure The species is commercially fished by several countries throughout its distribution and because of this the fishery is managed by an internationally based regional fisheries management organization, the Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna (CCSBT).

As most are aware, the population of southern bluefin tuna was greatly reduced due to overfishing in a period from the 1960s through the 1980s, with current estimates suggesting that the population is at approximately 5-7% of the virgin biomass.

Recent research however shows that things are on the up, with signs of increased recruitment. Many recreational fishers will have observed this with the high number of juvenile SBT caught around Australia over the last couple of years.

While recreational fishing for SBT has occurred off the southern states of Australia for many years, the recent resurgence in the availability of good numbers of small fish and advances in technology mean that we are seeing more and more recreational fishers targeting SBT. The prevalence of technology such as GPS and depth sounders with temperature sensors used in combination with satellite imaging of sea surface temperature allows recreational fishers to pinpoint the thermal fronts that SBT like to inhabit.

What information exists about SBT catches?

Despite the increase in popularity of this fishery, particularly within the mainland states, there is a lack of information about the recreational fishery, including basic information such as the amount harvested by recreational fishers each year, the amount of effort targeted at the fishery, catch and release rates, post – release survival and its economic value. All this information is needed to manage the fishery and also to estimate Fishing News - Page 40

the socio-economic importance of recreational fishing for SBT. To date, the only comprehensive study on the recreational SBT fishery was conducted by the Victorian Department of Primary Industries in 2011. This study determined that approximately 240 tonnes were harvested from Victoria in that year.

When considering this harvest estimate is from one of five states where SBT are reported to be caught by recreational fishers, the national recreational harvest is likely to be significant and highlights the need to ensure that we address the knowledge gaps in this fishery.

Current Research in Tasmania During 2012, the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies at the University of Tasmania initiated several studies aimed at improving our understanding of the recreational SBT fishery. Supported by the Tasmanian Fishwise Community Grant Scheme (your fishing licence fees at work) with additional funding to assess post-release survival provided by the Victorian Recreational Fishing Trust, they include: 1. A telephone/diary survey focused on offshore and game fishing – Using the Marine and Safety Tasmania recreational vessel database, approximately 1500 boat owners were contacted and asked whether they had participated in offshore or game fishing (sampling was randomly stratified to cover a range of boat sizes and geographic areas). If the person interviewed responded yes, they were invited to report their fishing activities for a year (about 450 participants went through to this stage).

The information collected will be expanded to provide an estimate of recreational harvest of SBT for Tasmania during the 2012 season.

This data also provided information relating to release rates, seal induced mortality and effort distribution. At the end of the survey year a one off ‘wrap up’ survey was conducted where the respondents were asked questions about attitudes to management options, seal interactions, amount spent on boats and fishing gear, and perceptions on issues facing recreational game fishing in Tasmania. The response rates to this survey were very high compared to other survey methods carried out around the world to assess recreational fisheries.

2. An onsite survey at key boat ramps with a focus on SBT – This method was the same as that successfully used in the Victorian 2011 survey. The data from two boat ramps (Pirates Bay and Southport) was used to validate estimates from the same locations via the phone diary survey.

3. Charter boat logbook - All Tasmanian charter operators that catch SBT were provided with a voluntary logbook to record their fishing activities. Completed logbooks were returned by over 95% of operators. Due to the excellent participation rates, we will be able to estimate the harvest from the recreational charter operators for 2012 as well as estimate how much the SBT fishery is worth to this sector.

4. Assessing post-release survival of SBT using satellite tags - This project uses high-tech tags to assess whether SBT survive when released after capture. During 2012 we conducted a pilot study deploying five tags. Encouragingly, all fish survived, although one is thought to have succumbed to a natural predation event (see figure 1). In 2013 we will deploy at least a further 15 tags on SBT caught from Tasmania, Victoria and NSW. The information from these tags are not only revealing post-release survival rates of SBT but also providing an interesting insight into their behavior and movement. The tags record depth and temperature

Figure 1. The dive, temperature and average dawn light level recorded by a satellite tag attached to a 90cm southern bluefin tuna tagged on the 17th May adjacent to Cape Pillar on Tasmania’s southeast coast. The grey bars indicated daylight hours. This illustrates a normal diurnal dive pattern in water temperatures of approximately 16°C up until the 4th of June. At this point the dive profile changes, the temperature jumps up to approximately 25°C and the light sensor shows a low light level. This condition persists to the 10th June at which point the

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information highlighting the dive profiles and temperature preferences of individual fish. They also record light levels which can be used to calculate an approximate position of the fish through time. This information can highlight interesting trends in the timing of movements between recreational fishing grounds across the southern states that target SBT. All in all this large body of work will provide a solid basis to ensure that Australia continues to play a key role in the sustainable management of the southern bluefin tuna population for both the commercial and recreational sectors into the future. The high participation rates of recreational fishers both in the Victorian and Tasmanian surveys highlight the willingness and commitment of Australia’s recreational fishers to the sustainable future of this important species and excellent stewardship in their role as participants in an internationally shared resource.

Need more information?

Get a copy of the Recreational Sea Fishing Guide from Service Tasmania; visit www.fishing.tas.gov.au; or Phone 1300 720 647 (local call cost) or 03 6233 7042.

tag again appears to show a normal light reading but it sinks to approximately 1200m before floating to the surface where its data was transmitted. One plausible explanation of the pattern is that the tuna was eaten by a predator on the 4th June (being inside a large shark would explain the increase in temperature and the low light), and then the tag was regurgitated or voided around the 10th where it sank before coming back to the surface and transmitted the stored data. Note the tag struggles to determine dawn time when the tag is in the gut of the predator.

of size classes of trout quickly for assessment of management strategies. The fish captured are not killed and can be released if needed.

RECREATIONAL INLAND FISHERIES NEWS Imported marron seized by Quarantine Tasmania During December 2012 Quarantine Tasmania seized a shipment of live marron (Cherax tenuimanus) that was imported by a Hobart restaurant. Marron and all species of the genus Cherax are prohibited from import into Tasmania.

Crayfish of the genus Cherax are native to mainland Australia and pose a risk of establishment to Tasmania which has its’ own unique freshwater crayfish fauna including the world’s largest freshwater crayfish Astacopsis gouldi. Cherax spp., which include Cherax destructor, the mainland yabby, are listed in Tasmania as a Controlled fish under the Inland Fisheries Act 1995 and are prohibited from importation, possession and capture. Those who are found contravening this part of the Act can receive fines of up to $13,000.

Boosting the population of an endangered species Over the past seven years the Inland Fisheries Service has been transferring captured Paragalaxias mesotes from Arthurs Lake to Woods Lake in an effort to boost the population in Woods Lake. Paragalaxias mesotes is endemic to both waters but the population in Woods Lake had diminished to the point where it was not found in surveys in the early 2000’s.

Approximately 3,000 of these fish have been translocated from Arthurs Lake to Woods Lake since 2005. Recently another 560 were moved to Woods Lake. This work will hopefully keep the population of this endangered species established within its historical distribution.

The work undertaken on the boat included a thorough inspection and cleaning of the hull for safety and improved conductivity, renewal of buoyancy, the replacement of the generator unit and an inspection of intricate wiring and an upgrading of the lighting system to LED. Along with this the trailer was also improved by fitting a disc brake system, new hubs wheels and axle. The work will ensure that this effective sampling method for both carp capture and trout surveys will be available for coming years.

good seasonal rainfalls have meant that conditions have been right for cormorant numbers to build.

This reflects the pattern seen in the 1970’s. A return to drier conditions will see a drop off in cormorant numbers, which may be a good thing for our river fisheries.

River surveys to investigate anglers concerns The Inland Fisheries Service is planning electrofishing surveys to assess the current status of river fisheries in Tasmania. These surveys will establish the current density and structure of trout populations in a number of Tasmania’s popular river fisheries.

There have been a number of inquiries by concerned trout fishers, guides and angling groups about the current status of river fisheries in Tasmania during the current season. Rivers that have been prolific producers of trout in the past have in recent months produced low catch rates for some experienced anglers.

Using standardised techniques for assessing river populations of trout, the IFS will electrofish the River Leven and the Tyenna, Russell, Mersey, St Patricks and Meander rivers to ascertain the density of trout and the spread of size classes.

The methods used will allow comparison of previous results from surveys conducted in the 1990’s, 1980’s and 1970’s. The results will be made available to the public in report form after the surveys are completed, which is expected to be during March this year (2013).

It is possible the cause of depletion if it is shown to have occurred may be due to the high number of cormorants in Tasmania during the past two years.

Anecdotally the observations of low trout numbers have coincided with large flocks of cormorants seen by anglers. Large numbers of cormorants have been observed below Meadowbank Dam by the IFS whilst harvesting eels and fish farms have also reported very large flocks predating on farm stocks of salmon and trout. The IFS fish trap at Liawenee had to be covered with netting this year after losses of spawning fish were experienced due to cormorant predation.

Survey work in the late 1970’s showed depletion of trout in many of the State’s rivers following a build up of cormorant numbers. Survey work in the 1980’s showed that trout numbers did rebuild but took a few years to do so. The last few years of

Good elver harvest good news for the environment Each year the IFS harvests juvenile eels, known as elvers, from two locations in the State. The harvest is conducted to restock the upper sections of Tasmania’s rivers to overcome the barriers to eel migration presented by large dams used for hydro electricity storage. Hydro Tasmania provides funding for the harvest to meet its’ environmental objectives.

Eels are an integral part of the native fish fauna of Tasmania and it is important to allow as close to natural quantities of them to inhabit our waterways for biodiversity reasons. Eels play an important role in the freshwater ecosystems and without them a naturally balanced aquatic system would not be easily achieved.

The other purpose of restocking areas is to sustain the commercial eel fishery. This is the only commercial fishery operating in Tasmania’s inland waters and supports a modest sized industry of local fishers and processors.

This year’s harvest of elvers, by fishing the tail-race below Lake Trevallyn on the Tamar River and trapping them below the Meadowbank Lake dam, has been better than the last few years. This has allowed restocking commitments of 2013 to be fulfilled and to meet the shortfalls of last year’s restock. The annual harvest can be quite variable with large fluctuations from year to year due to ocean current variation and other environmental factors that are not well understood.

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Refurbishment of the IFS electrofishing boat

Family rooms.

The IFS recently refurbished its’ electro-fishing boat. The boat purchased in 1996 to assist with the management of carp in lakes’ Crescent and Sorell has been used for a variety of fish surveys across the State.

This vessel is a valuable weapon in the battle to rid Lake Sorell of carp, as has been successfully achieved in Lake Crescent. It is also used in surveys of lakes for trout fishery management where it is a very useful way of sampling a variety

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Fishing News - Page 41

Fishing and Boating Directory Advertise here for $77. Contact Mike Stevens 0418 129949

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NEW MAXUS 15hp

2 stroke, 2 year warranty, for under $2000 Devonport Boat ‘n’ Tackle 13a Forbes Street, Devonport Phone: 6424 7172

Boat trailer wheel and tyre Dunbier and early Holden pattern

around $90ea

62 Hopkins St, Moonah 6228 0274

Aluman Engineering

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

g Sea

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

wine & whisky tasting

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 Fishing News - Page 42

guided fishing trips

• 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

Fishin

World class fishing in the heart of the central highlands

cosy wood fires

BURNIE MARINE Services

great pub

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:

son

Launceston’s Only Authorised

Dealer and Service Centre

8 Legana Park Drive Legana Industrial Estate, Ph: 6330 2277 Email: chris@cjmarineandkarts.com

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 and Mini Market 100 Chimney Heights Rd. St Helens 6376 3298

Gone Fishing Charters

9 - 5.30 weekdays 9 - 1 Saturday

44 Macquarie St George Town Ph: 6382 2373

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

• 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 and Boating Directory

Experience: You Advertise here for $77. Contact Mike Stevens 0418 129949 obviously need strong paddling skills including a reliable brace and Eskimo roll, and a good handle on how sea conditions are influenced by the wind, tides and currents. Offshore from the Tasman Peninsula is not a place for novice kayakers.

OKUMA TITUS GOLD 15S $330.00 Safety gear: A 20S $350.00 marine VHF radio is especially handy, and I routinely car r y an EPIRB, flares, whistle, SHIMANO TLD50 FULL ROLLER 24KG ROD paddle float, strobe light $575.00 (for my own epileptic marine disco), map, compass and a GPS. I barely ever use them, but its comforting to know they are all there.

Fishing gear: A handline is much cheaper SHIMANO TYRONU S 50 than a rod and reel and ROLLER TIP 37KG ROD seems to work fine for $779.95 this type of game fishing A dream fulfilled and thankful to be on hard ground again.

BULK MONO LINE providing you have a PRICE PER METRE Handline trolling for bluefin from a kayak is not easy, but is way to securely attach it, 10KG $0.04 achievable as the author shows.

15KG $0.06 and plenty of line (I use 24K G Inn Lake Leake is situated $0.

08 by Lake Leake , nestled in Endurance: You might need to stockpile some patience, about 300m of 37 kilo mono). Don’t forget your gloves. Include 37K the heart G of Tasmania’s $0.10east coast forests, 30 km from 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 Campbell town and Swansea .

STcountry ORMY An Historical hotelSE withAS warm and friendly YES!! WE CAN with long heavy mono traces. A gaff, knife and club to pacify your chances are low compared to other boats. But when MA RINA service, hearty meals, comfy bar T and lounge, cosy log WE SPOOL YOUR the fish are all potentially useful. You’ll need plenty of water your time finally arrives.... its hard to imagine any other fires and private function lounge.

WEAT HER SET REELS FOR YOU fishing experience coming close. Best of luck out there. and high energy food to keep paddling for hours.

We have six clean and comfortable rooms at very $3 9.

90 reasonable JA rates.

Bluefin tuna from a kayak, it is indeed possible.

CKET & PANTS We sell a great selection of fishing equipment Nick Gust and you can also purchase your fishing licence with us,

GAME FISHING SPECIALS

Outboard Servicing

Mobile service, saves you time, money and convenience.

• Servicing greater Launceston, east, northeast coast and central highlands. • Latest computer diagnostic equipment to suit most models. • Quality work guaranteed.

Grant Garwood: 0428 382 130.

Email: ggarwood1@hotmail.com

ASE SCOOP PURCH

LAKE LEAKE INN

BAR * FOOD * LODGINGS

 Rating Feature Stay and Fish the Peninsula AAA - Advertorial

Fishing tours are also available.

Come and see us for a great experience any time of the year andSTO why not be involved in our annual Easter RMY fishing ZIP competition.

OUT SLE

320 Lake road, Lake Leake 7210 TAS

JACKET

TEL: 03 6381 1329

EVE

NETT PRICE

$305.00 HOT PRICE

www.sportsfishtasmania.com SURE CATCH ALUMINIUM GIMBAL BELT

SMALL BAIT BOARD

$39.90 Tasmania’s huge online fishing website with forums, classifieds ROD HOLDER OR RAIL MOUNT AVAILABLE Kitchen and the Tessellated (or tiled) Pavement. You and the will be impressed by the drama of these geological wonders, sculpted by Mother Nature over millions latest of years.

A mere 15 minutes south by car the history of LARGE BAIT BOARD $129.00 fishing Tasmania’s convict past comes alive at the former $99.90 TRE ME 1.8 penal settlement of Port Arthur and other historical newsTAMAR MARINE TOP 4 sites on the Tasman Peninsula. $49.95

HEAVY DUTY GAFF

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

The Lufra - close to all the (fishing) action

It is no exaggeration to say the Tasman Peninsula is truly remarkable with possibly the best sport fishing, highest sea cliffs, outstanding diving in giant underwater kelp forests, renowned fine food producers, Australia’s leading convict site and some of country’s best bush walks.

Situated at Eaglehawk Neck, and just one hour from Hobart, The Lufra provides relaxed affordable accommodation close to Port Arthur and natural attractions and is ideally located as the base for you to enjoy many activities, sitting as it does at the narrow isthmus which connects the Forestier and Tasman Peninsulas. Visit the Lufra and you’ll share more than a stunning view because the area abounds in many attractions — both natural and made-made — all within easy driving or walking distance.

Close to the hotel are several amazing rock formations and attractions - The Blowhole, Tasman Arch, the Devil’s

Nearby you can also indulge in sports and pastimes like deep sea fishing, surfing, and bushwalking, or visit other nearby attractions like wildlife parks and wineries. $59 pp twin share incl.

The Lufra Hotel offers comfortable accommodation continental breakfast or in a range of rooms and self-catering units as well as a $65 pp with hotrooms” breakfast. limited number of “fishermen’s at very affordable rates. · 66 Stylish Additional car parkingRooms development allows substantial car and· boat parking.

Our licensed restaurant and bistro CBD Location restaurant are complemented by a games/recreation Affordable Rates room, ·TV/lounge area with open fireplace, café/coffee shop and two bars. · Conference Rooms Australian aviation pioneer tourism entrepreneur · FREE Parking · and FREE Movies Sir Reginald Ansett is reputed to have described the Lufra · FREE Fitness Hotel as “the hotel with theRoom best view in the world.” No wonder· there has been an accommodation house on Wireless Broadband the same site for more thanon 150 years. · Three Steps GeorgeThe Lufra Hotel Bar - Restaurant 380Heritage Pirates Bay Drive Eaglehawk Neck www.colonialinn.com.au Toll free 1800 639 532 (03) 6250 3262 www.lufrahotel.com or info@lufrahotel.com

SELLING BLUEFIN LURES

HALCO LAZER PRO 190

$18.90

RAPALA X-RAP 30

$34.95

KILLER VIBE 160

$22.90

MERIDIAN DEMON

$39.95

6-8 WEST TAMAR ROAD, LAUNCESTON, TASMANIA 7250 PHONE (03) 6331 6188 FAX (03) 63342681

Phone & Mail Orders welcomed We accept...

TRADING HOURS

MON TO FRI 8AM TO 5.30 PM

Ph: 6331 6588

WWW.TASFISH.COM - Over 850 stories online. Get the knowledge–get the fish.

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

in store

FREE Outside our waterfront PARKING boating and fishing store.

SAT MORNING 8AM TO 12.30PM

CLOSED SUN. & PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Fishing News - Page 11

Fishing News - Page 43

Issue 102 February - March 2013

Full of Fantastic Fishing

$5.95

Trout

Flathead

Game Fishing

Spinning basics

Burnie - Red Rock

Bream Classic Report

Tackle Reviews

Fly Tying

Cormorants

WWW.TASFISH.COM - 1000 FISHING STORIES

Craig Rist eyes off a trevally. Read his story on page 24.

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