Angling Report of the Southern Tasmanian Licensed Anglers Association
Index Editorial ............................................................................. 2 Inland Fisheries Service ................................................... 3 Minister’s Report on Inland Fisheries 2012/2013 .......... 3 From the Director - The State of the Fishery .................. 5 Hydro Tasmania Report ................................................... 7 Hydro Tasmania Camp Strategy Update ........................ 7 MAST Report .................................................................. 10 Anglers Alliance Tasmania Report ............................... 12 Chairman’s Review 2013 .............................................. 12 Inland Fisheries Advisory Council Report (IFAC) ...... 14 STLAA Reports ............................................................... 16 STLAA Executive ......................................................... 16 STLAA President’s Report - 2013 ................................ 17 Club Reports ................................................................. 20 Australian Polish Anglers Club ................................ 20 Bothwell Angling Club ............................................. 22 Bridgewater Anglers Association ............................. 24 Clarence Licensed Anglers Club............................... 27 Huon Licensed Anglers Association ......................... 30 Kingborough Anglers Association ............................ 33 Lake Pedder Anglers Club ........................................ 35 New Norfolk Licensed Anglers Association ............ 37 Features & Special Reports ............................................ 39 Dry Fly in the Sticks ..................................................... 39 Maintaining Biodiversity .............................................. 45 The Rebirth of Strathgordon’s Trevor the Trout ........... 48 Back to Pedder 2013 ..................................................... 51 Fishermen’s Huts on the Derwent River ....................... 53 Arthur Fleming Remembered ....................................... 57 KAA Auction Guided Day............................................ 60 21st Annual Eddie Wigston Memorial .......................... 61 Shore Bashing Derwent Sea Runners ........................... 63 Tup’s Indispensable ...................................................... 66 Obituaries ........................................................................ 67 Season 2012-2013 Photo Gallery.................................... 68
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Trout 2013 Tasmanian Angling Report of the Southern Tasmanian Licensed Anglers Association is published annually by the Association and its affiliated Clubs.
Cover Photo: Wading the shoreline at Lake Pedder
Report Committee: Warwick Bonney Clarence Anglers Ph 0439 379 093 Terry Byard Bridgewater Anglers Ph 0429 977 185 Norm Cribbin Clarence Anglers Ph 0408 144 587 Laurie Harrison New Norfolk Anglers Ph 0428 626 370 Neil Pinkard Clarence Anglers Ph 0427 342 245
Editorial s I don’t get the opportunity to get out fishing a lot these days, I enjoy the opportunity of reading the articles and reports others have submitted for Trout. I come away feeling I should double my efforts to get away and enjoy some time fishing in Tassie’s unique outdoors.
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Competing interests this year have placed demands on my time that have made it difficult to dedicate the effort required for Trout 2013. After Norm Cribbin stepped down as editor two years ago he spent last year guiding me through the process, and this year he’s come to the rescue and stepped in while I’ve been busy with work and a new born baby. Many thanks for your assistance Norm!
In the last twelve months, I’ve managed to squeeze in a few fishing trips. Not as many as I’d like but each has its own memories and experiences. One particular moment that comes to mind occurred in January this year. After several years of gathering dust, I got out my fly rod and put it to use at Little Pine fishing with my Dad. I managed to pick up two little brown trout on dry fly an experience which always gives me a rush.
I would also like to thank the book committee for their assistance with Trout 2013. Without the committee’s efforts tracking down reports, sponsors, articles and photos, Trout 2013 would not be what it is today. Thanks go similarly to the members who have submitted articles and photos from events and trips throughout the season. Your stories bring us along with you on those trips.
This year in July my wife & I welcomed a daughter into the world. Hopefully another future Tasmanian freshwater angler. We haven’t had the opportunity to take her fishing yet but no doubt over the next few months she’ll get the opportunity to hold a rod for the obligatory first fishing trip photo as her brother did several years ago. I look forward to seeing the expression on her face as she catches her first fish! (Although I suspect that moment may be a year or two away yet.)
Another big thanks to all our advertising sponsors. When you’re shopping for your next reel, boat, or supplies, please support the sponsors who provide the backing for us and thank them for supporting Trout 2013. I hope you enjoy reminiscing on the 2012-13 season as you read Trout 2013. I wish you all the best for the 2013-14 season!
Warwick Bonney - Editor
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Inland Fisheries Service Minister’s Report on Inland Fisheries 2012/2013
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s the Minister responsible for Inland Fisheries I am very pleased to provide my report to the Southern Tasmanian Licensed Anglers Association (STLAA) on the 2012/13 trout fishing season.
awaited River Derwent Anglers Access Project that will open further opportunities for southern based anglers. Additional work was undertaken to improve access with improvements made to boat ramps at Great Lake, Woods Lake and the break wall at the Arthurs Lake dam wall ramp. Work was completed on the Lake Fergus walking route and the roads to Lake Kay and Double Lagoon maintained.
Following a series of wet years on the back of a prolonged drought, the 2012/13 season presented new challenges for anglers and the Inland Fisheries Service. This year many trout fisheries particularly those in rivers and streams, came under pressure from an apparent increase in the cormorant population. Renowned fish producers such as the Tyenna River saw a decline in catch rate, with many anglers voicing concern over the state of the fishery. In response the IFS conducted river surveys at selected sites across the State, which generally supported the observations of anglers that trout populations were down on previous years. Similar events were reported in the 1950's and 1970's following wet years, encouragingly the fisheries recovered within a few years.
Fisheries compliance is another priority issue and I am pleased to report that the IFS have continued to improve overall efficiency with 12 Authorised Fisheries Officers undertaking this activity. Through 2012/13 a total of 3610 anglers were interviewed which represents around 13 % of all anglers , in addition a total of 83 infringement notices, 62 conditional cautions and 32 fisheries and 37 MAST verbal cautions were issued . Carp Management is an ongoing challenge that I have strongly supported during my time as Minister. Significant progress continues to be made with Lake Crescent remaining carp free and no evidence of carp spawning in Lake Sorell since 2009. The remaining carp population in Lake Sorell is estimated at less than 10 000 fish, with a small percentage of males maturing last summer and females unlikely to mature until 2015. This gives the program a good chance of eradicating carp over the next two years. Matching Federal Government funding ends this year, however it is hoped that a two year extension application through the Caring for Our Country Program is successful for 2013/14 and 2014/15. I along with many anglers look forward to the day
The IFS finalised work on activity zones for Penstock Lagoon following extensive consultation in the previous year. Having listened to the concerns of anglers a nonregulatory approach was implemented through a range of recommendations relating to transit zones, boat size, motor type and wading zones for anglers fishing the lagoon. The issue of angler access to fisheries remains one of my top priorities and I can report that the Inland Fisheries Service continues to make good progress in this area. Work on the Mersey Anglers Access Project was largely completed this season facilitating access to around 45 km of river bank. This will be followed in 2013/14 with the long
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that Lake Sorell can be returned as a major trout fishery for Tasmania. I am confident that we can continue to achieve significant progress in the development of the fishery through the ongoing support of the STLAA and other angling groups and the continued efforts of the Inland Fisheries Service, to deliver a great season in 2013/14. Yours sincerely
Bryan Green MP Minister for Primary Industries & Water
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From the Director - The State of the Fishery
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eason 2012/13 commenced well with reasonable rainfall and good levels in lakes and rivers across the State. As the season progressed, it became hot and very dry with record low inflows recorded for many highland catchments. The fishing through the season reflected the prevailing conditions with good reports received from the August to November period and mixed reports through to March when again fishing picked up. In addition to the climatic extremes, many river fisheries faced pressure from an influx of the great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo). The Inland Fisheries Service also encountered problems with these birds during the elver run at Meadowbank Dam and the rainbow trout spawning run at Liawenee.
Fisheries Management activities this season again focused primarily on the Bradys Chain of lakes, Tooms Lake, Lake Leake and Four Springs Lake. Through the winter a total of 5000 adult brown trout were transferred to Bradys Lake, 2000 were transferred into Four Springs Lake and 1000 into Lake Leake and Tooms Lake. The recovery at both Tooms Lake and Lake Leake is now becoming apparent with reasonable catch rates reported from both lakes, it is expected that both will continue to improve in season 2013/14. The Bradys Chain has also improved but only marginally and it is hoped that the intensive stocking of adult brown trout will assist in rebuilding the brown trout population in the chain. In another initiative to enhance angling opportunities and following numerous requests from anglers, the fishery at Lake King William was reopened for year round fishing and the regulation preventing trolling from a petrol outboard powered boat at Lake Leake was removed.
Great Lake was the most fished water through the season with Arthurs Lake and Woods Lake a clear second and third. The fishing at Great Lake was very good with the poorly conditioned fish from previous years absent and a strong cohort of younger fish dominating catches. Arthurs Lake did not perform well with a reduced catch rate and a much reduced average fish size despite continued high lake levels. The recovery of this lake from the drought years has been slower than expected and seems to have been confounded by multiple years of strong recruitment that has lead to a larger population of smaller fish. Given the observed catch rate it also appears that anglers have encountered difficulty in finding the fish with the lake at record levels. In response to the downturn at Arthurs Lake the Service is exploring its options for managing trout recruitment, at this stage priority is being given to the feasibility of migratory traps on the major inflowing streams around the lake.
Fisheries investigations were undertaken at Lake Botsford, Penstock Lagoon, Four Springs Lake and a number of rivers across the state. The results of the investigations were very encouraging for the lakes sampled with strong populations at each. The river populations did show a marked depletion and this was attributed to a combination of past climatic conditions and increased predation from cormorants, results from these surveys will be available from the IFS website. Improvements to access and infrastructure continued to roll out through the season with the completion of the Mersey River Anglers Access Project a feature. This is the eighth
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major access project completed and in combination the projects offer a wide variety of river options for anglers. The next project to be tackled in 2013/14 is the River Derwent Anglers Access Project, which no doubt will be of great interest to Southern anglers. The focus of the project will be on the lower and middle reaches of the river and will potentially be one of the biggest projects undertaken by the Service so far. Improvements were also made to the boat ramps at Great Lake with extensions of the concrete ramps at Brandum, Tods Corner and Swan Bay. Woods Lake Ramp was concreted and the breakwall at Arthurs Lake dam ramp was raised.
licences sold for the season. This continues the steady result of recent years despite the many challenges facing this popular recreational activity. The Service will introduce a five season licence option commencing in the 2013/14 season.
On the administrative side of the business it was encouraging that licence sales remained strong with over 28500
John Diggle Director of Inland Fisheries
I look forward to continuing the close and long standing working relationship I have with the STLAA and its member clubs and look forward to a great season in 2013/14.
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Hydro Tasmania Report Hydro Tasmania Camp Strategy Update
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ydro Tasmania endeavours to effectively manage recreational opportunities on land and water managed by our organisation. As a business we continue to develop and participate in collaborative management partnerships with stakeholders including government land managers, local councils, recreational clubs, community groups and private businesses. To undertake effective management Hydro Tasmania has adopted the following five recreational management principles to guide the planning, development and management of recreation opportunities on Hydro Tasmania managed land and water bodies.
and aquatic species. Through Hydro Tasmania’s Hygiene Training Program issues associated with Didymo, chytrid frog fungus, phytophthora has been provided to members of Trout Guides and Lodges Tasmania, Anglers Alliance Tasmania, Tasmanian Fly Fishers, Canoe Tasmania and staff from the Department of Primary Industries Water and Environment, Inland Fisheries Service and Hydro Tasmania. Access to Multiple-Use Recreational Opportunities The recent completion of the Brady’s Lake Recreational Development and Management Concept Plan has been developed to promote the multiple-use status of Brady’s Lake. The site is utilised for angling, canoeing, camping and kayaking. The development and management of infrastructure at the site will provide opportunities for all recreational users to maximise their use of the site. Similarly, the Mersey Forth Recreational Development and Management Plan identifies actions for furthering the multiple-use activities in the Mersey Forth including angling, rowing, canoeing and water skiing.
Since the adoption of the Hydro Tasmania Group - Recreation Principles much work has been done on implementing each of the principles with the implementation projects details below. Operational Safety and Security Recently, Hydro Tasmania has worked in cooperation with the Inland Fisheries Service and Marine and Safety Tasmania to improve the safety of boating on Hydro Tasmania storages. The project will see the instalment of solar powered navigational lights at Great Lake, Bronte Lagoon, Lake Barrington, Arthurs Lake, Woods Lake, Dee Lagoon, Lake Rowallen, Brady’s Lake, Lake Burbury, Lake Echo, Lake Mackintosh and Lake Pedder.
Community Engagement and Support Hydro Tasmania has recently engaged with a cross section of the recreational community and government departments to develop the Mersey-Forth Recreation Development and Management Plan. The Mersey Forth Plan has been developed as an operational-level document providing space specific guidance.
Environmental Management Protecting the environmental values of water and land managed by Hydro Tasmania continues to be a focus through raising awareness of the risk of diseases and pathogens to water quality
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The main aim’s of the plan is too:
Provide engagement opportunities with key stakeholders within the Mersey Forth on recreation activities and future developments, Identify opportunities for forming collaborative partnerships to deliver recreation in the Mersey Forth, Undertake an assessment of existing recreation use and facility provision and likely future demand, Through community consultation identify issues and opportunities for recreation management and development, Identify priorities for on-ground works, including infrastructure provision and impact mitigation.
Economic Benefits Hydro Tasmania supports the development of recreational opportunities on land and water bodies of which we manage. We support the appropriate development of facilities and services that support and promote sustainable recreational use of land and water. Hydro Tasmania acknowledges the importance of these activities in attracting visitors to the state and the economic returns that such activities provide to a wide section of the Tasmanian community.
Projects being currently being implemented as a result of the Mersey Forth recreational Plan includes;
Improvements to the boating pontoons at Lake Barrington park a cooperative project between Kentish Council, Marine and Safety Tasmania and Hydro Tasmania.
Michael Bidwell - Convenor Recreational Lakes Committee
The development of Recreational Development and Management Concept Plans for Lake Barrington and Kentish Park financed by Kentish Council in partnership with Hydro Tasmania, An assessment of the impact of erosion on key boating infrastructure at Lake Barrington funded by Hydro Tasmania,
4 Elizabeth Street Hobart 7001 or email Michael.Bidwell@hydro.com.au
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http://www.hydro.com.au/system/files/documents/RecreationPrinciples2012_FIN_web.pdf
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MAST Report
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nglers are now heading to their favourite destination whether it is with lake or river fishing in the hope of successful catches now that the trout season is open after a break of a few months.
Another project recently completed was the launching ramp at Lake Burbury. Whilst the lake level was low MAST engaged a contractor who was able to construct the ramp at low lake levels. This work had been scheduled for some time so I am pleased to advise it has now been completed.
MAST continues to work with the IFS and Hydro Tasmania to deliver projects contained in the 2010 Inland Waters Infrastructure Plan. The three organisations have been working together with MAST providing the funding from the Recreational Boating Fund and Licence Fees together with an amount from Hydro Tasmania which has allowed many of the projects to be completed ahead of time. Whilst not directly contributing funds to these inland projects, IFS has acted as project manager. The annual IFS open weekend at Liawenee was another huge success with better than average crowds, MAST was again there to answer questions from the public and I again look forward to attending next year. This year Mr Chris Gray also attended, Chris has replaced Peter Gibson as the MAST representative over the summer period on the North West Coast and Inland Lake regions. Those who use Bronte Lagoon will be aware of the new ramp and pontoon constructed there. I thank all the anglers that have provided us with much positive feedback on that project. Bronte of course is a popular fishery and all reports are that it is fishing well this season so this facility will be most welcomed. A new concrete ramp has been provided at Woods Lake. This compliments the works done the previous year with the breakwater and finishes off a much used facility.
The ramp at Tods Corner was also lengthened and whilst Great Lake remains low I am sure in years to come this extension will be well utilised.
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At Pine Tier some maintenance to the launching facility was also carried out with some firm base grade material and a gravel overlay. This has meant that accessibility to this fishery has improved greatly.
provide safety to anglers getting back to the launching facility in darkness.
I am also pleased to report that MAST has contributed to the installation of the cameras on some of the lakes through Anglers Alliance Tasmania. These cameras provide anglers with “on the spot” weather and have a great safety consequence.
The MAST website continues to be a useful resource and we urge all anglers, if they have access to a computer and the internet to look at our website (www.mast.tas.gov.au) as there is some useful educational material and of course the successful and well utilised MAST TV.
Plans will be drawn shortly for a facility similar to that at Bronte at Brady’s Lake. This will be funded jointly by Hydro Tasmania and MAST.
The long awaited pontoons have now been constructed and once the Naval Architect completes the engineering design for the moorings these will be put into place at the Dam Wall on Arthurs and at Swan Bay on Great Lake.
Remember, if you have not been out this year check your safety gear and ensure your inflatable has been serviced. Happy fishing from all the crew at MAST.
MAST is providing funding for a number of lights at 24 different locations around the central lakes. These lights will be solar powered and positioned at well-known ramps. This project will
Peter Hopkins Manager – Recreational Boating Marine and Safety Tasmania
Inland Lakes – Proposed pontoons.
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Anglers Alliance Tasmania Report Chairman’s Review 2013
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he Mersey River Angler’s Access and the lake webcams have been the two major projects successfully completed in the last year. They reinforce the AAT's focus on the fishery and maximizing outcome s of this great resource for the freshwater angler.
freshwater anglers. Apart from Malcolm we must thank our other sponsors Inland Fisheries Service, Marine and Safety Tasmania, Central Highlands Council, PowerCom and tasfish.com
The Mersey River angler s access project was completed on time and within bud get by the IFS under the project management of Neil Morrow. AAT was successful in obtaining a funding grant for $66,000 from the Tasmanian Community Fund and this with other funding and in kind support gave total project funding of $101,000. Neil Morrow rates it as the best river access project to date with licence agreements with14 landowners giving over 25 km’s of access over private land(including Lamberts Dam) and some 20kms of access through parks and reserves that has opened up some excellent trout water. This project completes eight years of Angler Access projects covering some 200 km’s of access at a cost of over $600,000.
Lake Burbury Webcam The webcams and the AAT website will be constantly tweaked to improve their performance and talks are underway with BOM to discuss possible enhancements that could help improve their weather forecasting ability.
Future anglers access projects are the Derwent River, and subject to a successful grant application, the South Esk River.
The Fishing Habitat Fund is closer to being under control of anglers after a number of meetings with the recalcitrant trustees and when their hands have been prised from the funds IFS will seek to manage the fund for future habitat and fishery projects.
Malcolm Crosse has excelled himself in successfully bringing seven lake webcams on line in time for the 2013/14 trout season. Cameras are now operating in their new format at Arthurs Lake, Great Lake, Penstock Lagoon, Little Pine Lagoon, Augusta Dam and Lake Burbury. Malcolm has given countless hours of his expertise and called on his seemingly endless contact s within the industry to deliver this large and complex project so cost effectively and selflessly for the benefits of all
AAT has worked in conjunction with the IFS, Hydro and MAST to manage issues on inland waters as they have arisen or been requested by anglers, including access and safety issues. Funding from MAST has allowed for a number of improvements to ramps and
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other infrastructure which have been comanaged by the IFS.
assure them we will take on any issue for the benefit of anglers into the future. The knowledge, professionalism and endeavour of each and every one is appreciated. Both the general and executive committees are an excellent mix and help obtain great outcomes.
IFS continue to help fund AAT along with grants and sponsorship from MAST and other organisations. Meetings are always well attended and representations across all inland angling issues are discussed. No issues are off limits and it is rare for an issue to be unresolved.
Thank you everyone for supporting Anglers Alliance Tasmania Mike Stevens - Chairman AAT
I would like to thank every participant from meetings throughout the year and
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Inland Fisheries Advisory Council Report (IFAC)
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he current IFAC is now well into the second year of its four-year term and considerable amount of work has been done over the past year.
A sub-committee of IFAC and IFS has been established to implement and drive the Marketing Plan. Anglers will witness the implementation of the Marketing Plan this year with the fiveyear licence, the boat prize promotion and a broadsheet publication later in the year.
Strategic Planning workshops were held during the year with both Council members and senior staff of the Inland Fisheries Services (IFS) participating. Through these facilitated workshops a dynamic new Strategic Plan for the IFS has been developed encompassing a shared vision for the Service that focuses on managing the fisheries to meet the needs of anglers while balancing stocking with the constant and evolving environmental challenges while working collaboratively with competing water users.
Work has been undertaken on a Stakeholder Management Plan with all key stakeholders identified and a Communications Strategy being developed. Given the significant number of stakeholders with competing interests in Tasmania’s waterways and the merging of IFS’s activities with many other Tasmanian entities, Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) have become a key instrument in our stakeholder engagement. Under the auspices of IFAC, MOU’s with key stakeholders including Hydro Tasmania and Tourism Tasmania have been developed and an MOU with Tasmanian Irrigation is in progress.
The Council provides an important sounding-board for the IFS, in particular the Director and managing the Service is an increasing challenge with a declining allocation of funds from the State Government (in real terms due to the absence of indexation), declining participation in the fishery and an environment of low interest rates. Tight funding constraints has meant reducing staff to fit within the financial budget, resulting in pressure on remaining staff and the IFS’s ability to provide services.
During the year the Council visited the Salmon Ponds as part of its strategy to understand all the components of the IFS, including its assets. The 2014 year is significant for the Salmon Ponds being the 150 year anniversary of its establishment and as part of the IFS Marketing Plan the Marketing subcommittee is working closely with Tourism Tasmania and other interested parties to make this a significant event for Tasmania. The Trout Museum at the Salmon Ponds holds the IFS’s extensive and valuable collection of fishing memorabilia and promoting Tasmania’s fly-fishing museums is proposed to form part of the anniversary celebrations.
IFAC’s response to the financial situation has been to promote the development of a Marketing Plan as an adjunct to the Strategic Plan and to work closely with the IFS and Tourism Tasmania to develop a Marketing Plan to increase participation in the fishery with the key objective of securing the financial future of the IFS. The Marketing Plan is based on sound evidence and the expertise and commitment of Tourism Tasmania in niche marketing, which has been resoundingly welcomed and appreciated.
The lack of activity in the Hall of Fame at the Salmon Ponds precinct has become a concern for IFAC and
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conversations have been held with the Hall of Fame Board and the Minister with a view to re-invigorating this institution with the goal of resuming inductions in the year ahead.
the IFS and the Fishery, as envisaged in the legislation. Altogether it has been an exciting but challenging twelve months with a lot achieved and still much more the Council can contribute.
In the year ahead IFAC intends to hold Council meetings around the State in order to meet with the IFS’s constituents and create a forum for the community to discuss matters of importance relative to
Sue Baker Chairperson Inland Fisheries Advisory Council
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STLAA Reports STLAA Executive OFFICE BEARERS 2012-2013 POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 697 Moonah 7009 PATRON: Mr Bob Ward PRESIDENT: Mr Norm Cribbin VICE PRESIDENT: Mr Laurie Harrison SECRETARY: Mr Neil Pinkard HONORARY TREASURER: Ms Alex Pinkard HONORARY HISTORIAN: Mr Ray Aitchison AAT DELEGATES: Mr Norm Cribbin, Mr Terry Byard EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: Mr Norm Cribbin, Ms Alex Pinkard, Mr Neil Pinkard, Mr Laurie Harrison and Mr Tim Lowe CLUB DELEGATES: Australian Polish Anglers Bothwell Anglers Bridgewater Anglers Bronte/Brady Anglers Clarence Anglers Huon Anglers Kingborough Anglers Lake Pedder Anglers New Norfolk Anglers E.T. Smith A. Maclaine C. Smith R. Ryder L. Ward B. Creed
1970 1979 1983 1983 1987 1992
Luke Stefankowski, Brett Whittaker Don Emery, David Dyson Terry Byard, Bob Ward Kim Cooper, Jodie Kelly Gary Davy, Alexandra Pinkard Rob Chandler, Larry Paul John Francis, Amos Mapleston Matthew Mallinson, John Groves Tim Lowe, Justin Causby LIFE MEMBERS: P. Lowe 1992 L. Harrison 2009 R. Aitchison 1995 K. Hansson 2009 K. Jones 1999 P. Wood 2010 D. Cranfield 1999 D. Triffitt 2011 R. Bradshaw 2002 N. Cribbin 2012 T. Byard 2004
CERTIFICATE FOR SERVICES TO ANGLING AWARDS: R. Bradshaw P. Wood L. Datlen K. Hanson W. Knight N. Cribbin B. Sherriff D. Triffitt T. Sutton W. Seabrook N. Pinkard F. Johnson J. Bluett B. Jordan E. Aitchison K. Walker B. Johnston M. Sherriff
2000 2000 2000 2000 2000 2001 2001 2001 2001 2002 2002 2002 2003 2004 2004 2004 2004 2004
R. Walker D. Cranfield D. Driver P. Richards K. Russell M. Russell H. Chivers M. Pinkard R. Aitchison A. Smith S. Page B. Page D. Goss S. Granger J. Barrett B. Andrew M. Harrison C. Harris
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2004 2004 2005 2005 2005 2005 2005 2006 2006 2007 2007 2007 2007 2008 2008 2008 2009 2010
J. Groves K. Cooper J. Causby S. Mallinson T. Gourlay J. Steele N. Bester C. Pearce J. McIlhenny M. Mallinson J. Freeman D. Emery D. Wright P.Thompson R. Cooper I. Cooper
2010 2010 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2012 2012 2012 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013
STLAA President’s Report - 2013
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t is with much pleasure that I present the President’s Report for the 2012/13 angling season. The STLAA has had another successful year
remaining vestiges of the club may consider amalgamating with either New Norfolk Anglers or the Lake Pedder Anglers.
In November of last year the Association celebrated its 100th year of representing Southern Tasmanian Anglers, this was a significant milestone not often achieved by many organizations. The official celebrations were held on the 24th November at the Salmon Ponds on the footsteps of the Tasmanian Fishing Museum. The celebration was attended by many STLAA Life Members, Members, distinguished guests, family and friends. Following the formalities, which culminated in the launch of the book “Changing Times – A History of the Southern Tasmanian Licensed Anglers Association 1912 – 2012” by Ray Aitchison, wherein a 100 years of STLAA history as been admirably documented, all enjoyed a lovely morning tea and angling conversation. I would like to thank Ray Aitchison, the Association’s Honorary Historian for his many hours of research and custodianship of the STLAA records, reports and minutes which were needed in writing the centenary book. I would also like to thank the Centenary Subcommittee for organizing the formalities at the Salmon Ponds.
Affiliated Clubs - Season 2012-13
Australian Polish Bothwell Bridgewater Bronte/Bradys Clarence Huon Kingborough Lake Pedder New Norfolk
The combined membership currently stands at 600 adults and 216 juniors, at total of 816. This is a significant collective voice for anglers in the south and continues to ensure anglers are regarded as major stakeholders in matters relating to tourism, recreation, water & land management and the environment. Following several years of declining attendance at the STLAA Family Day BBQ’s, due in part to our uncanny ability to select wet windy days no matter what time of the year was chosen, a new format and venue for the day was arranged with the help of the New Norfolk Licensed Anglers Association. The Junior Angling Pond at the Bushy Park Estate was the nominated venue allowing juniors the chance of catching a large Rainbow or Atlantic Salmon whilst the adults enjoyed a BBQ meal in the lovely grounds of the Bushy Park Estate. The NNLAA, custodians of the pond, hosted the BBQ and with the community table of salads, desserts and nibbles there was plenty of fine fair for all. The day was very well attended and it was most pleasing to see many juniors present. The chance of catching a fish in the 5 to
The past year has seen the member ranks of the Association grow by 75, representing a 10% increase on the 2011-12 membership. The following clubs reported significant numbers of new members, well done Lake Pedder Anglers, New Norfolk Anglers and Bronte Bradys. Currently the Association has 9 affiliated clubs, sadly due to lack of numbers the Maydena Licensed Anglers Club is no longer a viable entity, it is hoped that the
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15 lb size bracket was obviously a major draw card for the juniors and the adult helpers. Given the success of the day it is hoped we will see an even greater numbers attending the 2013 STLAA Family Day BBQ, and yes it will once again be held at the NNLAA – Bushy Park Estate Junior Angling Pond.
supportive relationship. The IFS Angler Access program in particular is regularly praised by anglers, the approved access points now available to anglers, thanks to negotiations between land owners and the IFS, now provides many new angling opportunities. The association continues to provide angler feedback and assistance to both Angler Alliance Tasmania (AAT) and the IFS on a diverse range of angling topics. Notably the IFS has recently advised that many of the recommendations put forward by the STLAA for the management of Penstock Lagoon will be implemented on a nonregulatory basis this coming season. The STLAA would like to thanks those clubs that assisted Malcolm Crosse from the AAT in the installation of the now very popular webcams. Web cams are now available for Little Pine lagoon, Great Lake, Arthurs Lake, Penstock Lagoon, Bronte Lagoon, Lake Augusta and Lake Burbury.
On the angling front, it was pleasing to see water levels at Arthurs Lake continue to remain above -2 metres below Full Supply Level (FSL) for the whole of season 2012-13. However many anglers fishing Arthurs Lake this season have reported an increase in the number of small fish in their catch, coupled with a decline in the condition of fish over 36 cm in length. The IFS advised that Arthurs Lake is currently over stocked with juvenile fish following good spawning conditions over the past four (4) years. Following angler concerns about the excessive numbers of juvenile fish the IFS propose to install anti-jump weirs in the major spawning creeks during season 2013-14 so that future spawning runs can be managed.
On a personal note, it was a great honour to receive Life Membership of the Association at the 2012 AGM/Annual Dinner. This award was a complete surprise as those who attended the AGM/Annual Dinner last year would attest. Following presentation of the Services to Angling Awards to C. Pearce, James McIlhenny and Matthew Mallinson, I was encouraging nominations from Clubs for Life Membership as none had been received for 2012, when Terry Byard steeped up and informed all that in fact there was a nomination and it was myself.
Great Lake has seen a gradual decrease in water level from -11 metres in October 2012 to its present level of -16 metres. Club reports indicate that this water continues to fish well, but anglers are hoping for increasing water levels rather than the continued slow decrease. Other waters around the state generally followed normal yearly fluctuations. However angling proved difficult in many waters in January 2013 when extended high temperatures were encountered. Lake Burbury for example recorded surface water temperatures above 24° C for extended periods, putting the fish down.
At this point I would also like to advise members that I will not be standing for the position of STLAA President in 2013-14, after four years in the position it is time to hand over to some new blood. I have always been of the opinion that regular change of Executive positions ensures that fresh ideas and enthusiasm are maintained resulting in a
I would like to thank the Inland Fisheries Service (IFS) for its continued support of the STLAA and its activities. The Association continues to endorse the work of the IFS and our two organizations maintain a friendly and
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strong vital Association. Thank you to all who have supported me as President over the past four (4) years.
Byard, our AAT Delegate. Special thanks also go to our Patron, Bob Ward, and the STLAA Historian, Ray Aitchison, for their continued commitment. Last, but not least, thank you to the executive committee and delegates who attend the Association meetings and provide the invaluable conduit between the Association and their Club.
In closing I would like to thank the Association’s Secretary, Neil Pinkard, for his dedication and diligence in dealing with the variety of Association matters that have arisen throughout the past 12 months. I also thank our Vice President, Laurie Harrison, who has ably stepped in to chair meetings when work has kept me from attending to STLAA duties. Thanks must also go to Alex Pinkard, the Association’s newest Treasurer for ensuring we are always on a sound financial footing and to Terry
I wish all members and their family’s great outings and tight lines for the season ahead. Norm Cribbin – STLAA President
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President: Luke Stefankowski Secretary: Alice Banasik Treasurer: Anthony Young Postal Address: 51 Jetty Road, Old Beach, 7017 Meetings: 2nd Wednesday Monthly
Club Reports Australian Polish Anglers Club
L
ast season saw a downturn on numbers attending the competitions and a very large reduction in trout caught over the season. Overall some of this can be put down to the terrible weather encountered at most, if not all of the competitions and the lack of members attending, which may also be due to the poor weather.
Congratulations to Tony, you have earned it. A very special thank you to Alice, who after a number of years is stepping down as secretary of the club. Alice has done a fantastic job over the years and the club as a whole appreciates the amount of time and dedication put into the role. Your experience and expertise will be greatly missed.
Aside from that, it appeared all those who made the trips had a good time, and where the opportunity arose, some good bags of fish were had, although the size and weight of fish was poor, with only two trout over one kilogram landed and weighed all year.
Thank you to Anthony and the rest of the committee for your effort last season. This is my last AGM and report as president of the club, as I will not be standing again. It has been an honour to hold this position and I wish all the best to the incoming president.
November last year saw the club celebrate its fortieth anniversary at the Polish Club. Approximately 70 people attended the formal occasion and a good night was had by all, dancing into the small hours. Many thanks to those who helped to make it a great night.
Thanks again Luke Stefankowski - President
A special event on the night of the dinner was a surprise presentation of Life Membership to Tony Blackwell for recognition of services to the club. Season 2012-2013 Results Location:
Angler
Heaviest:
Derwent River
Greg Kowalski
1785g
Lake Binney
Stan Marzecki
710g
Wayatinah Lagoon
Anthony Young
615g
Arthurs Lake
Luke Stefankowski
820g
Lake Echo
Greg Kowalski
710g
Lake Gordon
Brett Whittaker
595g
Lake Pedder
Nil Caught
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Honour Roll 2012-2013: Award
Angler
Catch & Location
Heaviest for season:
Greg Kowalski
1.785 kg Derwent River
Heaviest by a Lady:
Katherine Whittaker
0.575 kg Derwent River
Heaviest by a Junior:
Luke Chivers
0.410 kg Lake Echo
Paul Angel Memorial
Stan Marzecki
0.710 kg Lake Binney
Statistics 2012-2013 Location:
Entries:
Bag:
Bag weight:
Ave. Weight:
Derwent River
12
5
6.210 kg
1.242 kg
Lake Binney
16
30
13.655 kg
0.455 kg
Wayatinah
16
4
1.525 kg
0.381 kg
Arthurs Lake
10
27
9.040 kg
0.334 kg
Lake Echo
16
16
6.890 kg
0.430 kg
Lake Gordon
6
2
1.040 kg
0.520 kg
Lake Pedder
6
0
-
-
Total
82
84
38.360 kg
0.457 kg
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President: Leanne Datlen Secretary: Emma Datlen Treasurer: David Dyson P.O. Box 51 Bothwell 7030
Bothwell Angling Club
I
hope that all of you had some good trips and even better catches in the 2012/13 season.
Dyson has continued as Treasurer and has also taken on the role of Delegate. As no nominations were received for Secretary, Emma Datlen will continue until this position is filled. Richard Bowden has remained as Patron and weigh in stewards have also remained the same. It was also great to see some juniors at the AGM which was followed by a supper.
I would sincerely like to thank all of our Executive office bearers, patron, delegates, weigh in stewards, the few that have attended meetings and the members that have entered our competitions and helped our club in many different ways when needed. A very special thank you goes to the members who have put their hand up to go onto the committee or help in other ways as this has ensured the continuation of the club. We have a large membership base, large sponsorship support, local Council support, a large junior involvement and, being affiliated since the early 1960's, we are the 2nd oldest continuously affiliated club in Southern Tasmania, so hopefully members will continue to be involved with their club. Once again thank you to those members for putting your hand up and all members should thank these people when they see them as without them we would not have a club.
Our Annual Dinner and Presentation Evening was held in July with 35 adult and 8 juniors attending. Members, their families and official guests enjoyed a good night, a lovely meal, raffles, guessing games and many lucky doors.
A very special thank you must go to all our sponsors, for without their continued support, some over many years, our events such as our presentation dinner and fun fish would not be the success that it is. A list of these sponsors goes to all members and their support is greatly appreciated. Thank you to the Central Highlands Council for the use of the hall, club rooms, Recreation Ground and in kind support such as photocopying. A thank you also goes to all property owners who allow anglers to access some of the best fishing in the world.
The President of the STLAA presented Don Emery with a certificate for Services to Angling, congratulations Don. Five of our members also attended and represented the club at the STLAA dinner. We have had our usual competition weekends, with good nominations for all of them, but we had slightly less fish weighed in than last season. This was the same for the entire season with 14 different waters providing catches and the main one being Lake King William
At our AGM Don Emery was elected President and Proxy Delegate, Steven Anile was elected Vice President, David
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with 64 trout weigh in. We only had 8 Rainbows weighed in, is this a sign of change? We also held our annual Fun Fish in February, which was open to all waters. We had 30 adults, 10 juniors & 6 family members nominate for the Fun Fish Competition and family barbecue with 14 fish weighed in. We had the weigh-in, drawing of the raffle and the nomination prize with juniors receiving drinks, chips and Lures ending this enjoyable day at the Bothwell Football ground.
20 different anglers (including 8 juniors) won prizes this season with many winning more than one. Remember a fish can only win one prize. Three Incentive prizes were also presented to our juniors who attended the dinner and were unlucky enough not to win a trophy. Congratulations to all our trophy winners, and good luck to everyone for the coming season. As this is my last report, to my family (without their help, understanding and lots of patience) and every-one else that has helped make my position easier over the years a sincere thank you. Please extend this same help to the new committee. I was a member of this club as a junior, my children have grown up as members and I would like to see the club continue for the next generation. Thank you.
The clubs monthly meetings are held on every second Thursday and it would be good to see some new faces even if you can only attend some of the meetings, either to put forward your ideas to the club or find out what is happening at club and STLAA level. New members welcome. The club again donated a book for Anzac Day, this is laid at the local cenotaph and then goes to the Bothwell Area School library.
Tight Lines Leanne Datlen - President
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President: Alistair Creed Secretary: Gary Chaffey Treasurer: Cheryl Williams STLAA Delegates – Terry Byard & Bob Ward Meetings: Last Tuesday of each month except January & June
Bridgewater Anglers Association
T
he past season again started well for the Association with the AGM, trophy presentation and dinner hosted by the Brighton Bowls Club. This was followed on the following Sunday by the rubbish clean up on the Bridgewater foreshore.
Gary and Cheryl Williams for doing the weigh-in and having the Saturday night barbecue at their Flintstone Drive shack. The next competition was held at Meadowbank Dam in November. Attendance was low and the weather was not kind.
The fishing also started well with a good tum-out for the opening weekend competition on the Derwent River. Most were able to land a fish or two but we missed out again in the "Combined Competition", beaten by another close margin by New Norfolk Branch. Members who fished from boats accounted for most fish over the weekend. Opening day finished with a barbecue and weigh-in at the Granton Park and Members travelled to New Norfolk on Sunday and enjoyed the fellowship of members from other branches.
The "Birthday Bash" held at the Balmoral restaurant on November 6 proved to be a most enjoyable night celebrating the coming of age of two of our elder statesmen in Angus Maclaine and Leon Hurd. Congratulations on reaching this milestone in life. The annual Christmas barbecue saw a good roll-up of Members and everyone had a good feed and enjoyed the seasonal spirit. Thanks to all who helped out with catering and cooking. The site at Tolosa Park was an excellent venue. In January of this year the next competition was a one day event held at Woods and Arthurs Lakes. The weather was kind but the fish were hard to find with the heaviest fish coming from Arthurs. This was a little surprising given the small run offish from there during the season.
The combined competition with New Norfolk Branch was successful and it was pleasing that our Association was a little better represented than in previous years at the weigh-in and barbecue at New Norfolk on the Sunday. We were once again beaten by New Norfolk. Our thanks go to the New Norfolk anglers for supplying and hosting the weigh in and barbecue.
February saw a good number of members heading to Lake Pedder for a weekend competition and the ensuing fellowship. This proved to be a highlight of the season as did the Corinna trip the previous season. This trip was closely followed by the family day barbecue at Cremorne hosted by the Bradshaw family which also proved to be a most enjoyable day.
A competition was held at Tooms Lake in late September. It was fairly well attended and eighteen fish were landed and a good time was enjoyed by all. The next competition was back on the Derwent and eleven fish were weighed in.
Another competition was held at Tooms Lake over the Easter weekend. The weather was fine but windy and the fishing was reasonable with most Members landing a fish or two. Thanks
This was followed by the annual open waters event on "Show Weekend" with fish coming from Woods Lake, Arthurs Lake and Penstock Lagoon. The winning fish came from Penstock. Thanks to
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to Gary and Jenny Chaffey for the use of their camp for the weigh-in and get together on the Saturday night which was most enjoyable. We had a good feed, enjoyed great fellowship, made some runs and kicked a few goals.
for hosting members at the "Tackle Us" store for the October meeting and arranging guest speakers for the night. A couple of wallets were also lightened up. Thanks also to Gary Chaffey for the Videos at regular meetings. The new meeting venue at the Austin’s Ferry Yacht Club has proved popular with good numbers attending meetings. It is hoped that some good activities can be arranged for future meetings particularly during summer.
The final competition, held on the closing weekend of the season, in the Bronte area saw a small gathering of hardy souls assemble at the "Italy" building at Bronte Park. Fishing was extremely difficult due to gale force winds but most managed to catch a fish. The group had dinner on Saturday night at the Chalet with a good night enjoyed by all. A few fished on the Sunday while others headed for home around noon after a hearty breakfast and not so hearty recovery period.
The Association was once again well represented at STLAA meetings by Terry Byard and Bob Ward. Terry also represents the STLAA at Anglers' Alliance and continues to do a great job for Angling within the State. Before closing I would like to thank Gary Chaffey for his excellent ongoing work as secretary, Treasurer Cheryl Williams and all Committee and Members for their assistance and support during the year. The Association would not exist without you.
The rostered working bee at the shack was held in May with all maintenance jobs completed and a very nice baked meal consumed on the Saturday night. Thanks to all the cooks. I urge all members to try and attend Association functions and competitions as you can see from this report that the fishing is not always the best part of the weekend.
Please accept my best wishes for a successful, safe and enjoyable 2013/14 season. Tight Lines.
Overall, General Meetings were fairly well attended. Thanks to Tom Crawford
Alistair Creed - President
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Bothwell Garage Open 6.00 am – 7.00 pm 7 Days Reg. Fire -arms Dealer Permits & Ammo Fishing Licences Bait & Tackle BBQ Gas, Groceries, Videos Auto Parts Newspapers & magazines EFPOS & lots more Proprietors : Geoff & Julie Herbert
Telephone: 6259 5599 Fax: 6259 4051
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President: Neil Pinkard Secretary: Dave Roberts Treasurer: Gary Davy Postal Address: PO Box 291 Rosny Park 7018 Contact: 0408 144 587 Email: norm.cribbin@hydro.com.au
Clarence Licensed Anglers Club
T
hank you to all those members that have supported the Club in some way during the past 12 months, whether via Club meetings, field trips, social events, fund-raising, Ray’s BBQs, IFS’ Liawenee week, raffles, newsletter articles, representation at STLAA meetings and functions.
Ponds, Clean Up Australia along the banks of the Derwent, and the STLAA Annual Dinner – where we were the most represented club. Re the Club’s Cabin in Dolerite Drive at Lake Sorell, there has been progress however it has been slower than I would have liked due to work and other commitments hindering Norm, Tim, Vince and Greg’s availability. In particular, Greg recently went to SA to get employment but within a fortnight he was jetting back to Hobart as his father, Martin, a former member, had suffered a major stroke and is now in the RHH’s Acute Care ward. Our thoughts are with Martin as he fights to regain use of his RH side.
I also thank the members of the Committee, all have been very supportive and hard-working, but none more so than Dave Roberts – our Secretary and the Editor of “Clarence Catchlines” our monthly newsletter. Well done, Dave! It is an extremely time consuming role requiring dedication, responsibility and pro-activity. Deserving our thanks too is Gary Davy, our Treasurer, who has been very diligent in collecting the proceeds of our fundraising efforts such as BBQs, raffles and the stall at Liawenee. Typically he only writes out cheques with reluctance. Just the qualities you want in a Treasurer. Importantly he has ensured that there is a supply of cold beers at each of our monthly meetings.
Now I come to the new season. What will be the highlight? This season will be our 50th year as the Club was first mooted at a meeting on 12th June 1964, and on 7th July 1964 at a meeting at the Beltana Hotel the constitution was adopted. In August the Club was formally accepted as a branch of STLAA. We are proud that the inaugural President, Ron Ruthven, is still an active member of the Club. Ron, Congratulations and a big Thank You! Would the Club exist without you?
The highlight of the past season for me is how active the Club has been with 9 general meetings, 9 Committee meetings, 2 social evenings, 13 fishing trips, 10 BBQs, a stall at Liawenee and participation in Tas. Fly Casting Championships at Cressy (the sole STLAA club to attend). We have also been very active supporters of STLAA by providing the President, the Secretary, the Treasurer and editor of “Trout”, the annual report of STLAA. We have been very well represented at all STLAA meetings and functions such as the Family BBQ at Bushy Park, STLAA Centenary Celebrations at the Salmon
It wasn’t long after that when a young Jeff Freeman joined so he too has been an active member for nearly 50 years. At the recent STLAA Dinner, Jeff was awarded a Certificate for Services to Angling in recognition of all those years supporting the Club. He was a Committee man for most of the 1970’s and assisted with the building of our previous cabins at Bronte Lagoon and Lake Sorell. Jeff too continues to be an active member of the Club.
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It will be a special day in July next year when we celebrate our 50 years (probably with a celebratory dinner at the Beltana Hotel) and review the events of the previous 50 years that have made the Club what it is today.
I thank all our members past and present for making the Club what it is today. A great club! Neil Pinkard - President
Recently at our annual dinner, we recognised our more active members through the following awards:
Bert Thunig - Club Member Award Bert Thunig - Heaviest Fish for Season - Senior Men (Trout) Sally Gregory - Heaviest Fish for Season - Senior Women (Trout) Eddie Chugg - Heaviest Fish for Season - Junior (All species) Bert Thunig - Heaviest Fish Field Trip (AC Walker Memorial Trophy) Trout Bert Thunig - Heaviest Atlantic Salmon for Season Bert Thunig - Consistent Angler Award Norm Cribbin - One Fly Perpetual Trophy Scott Garth - One Lure Perpetual Trophy Gerry Fitzgibbon - "ACE" Award
Field Trip Awards: Location
Angler
Species
Method
Weight
Derwent River
Alan Shaw
Brown
Lure
1.50 kg
Derwent River
Paul Millhouse
Brown
Lure
1.96kg
Lake Meadowbank
Bert Thunig
Brown
Bait
3.64 kg
Brumbys Creek
Bert Thunig
Rainbow
Bait
0.58 kg
Tooms Lake
Bert Thunig
Brown
Bait
1.38 kg
Swan River
Riley Blackwell
Bream
Bait
40cm
Arthurs Lake
Scott Garth
Brown
Lure
0.68 kg
Lake Burbury
Gerry Fitzgibbon
Rainbow
Fly
0.82 kg
Lake Burbury
Norm Cribbin
Rainbow
Lure
0.82 kg
Arthurs Lake
Norm Cribbin
Brown
Fly
0.76 kg
Arthurs Lake
Bert Thunig
Brown
Bait
0.76 kg
Little Pine
Vince Coyte
Brown
Fly
0.49 kg
Great Lake
Bert Thunig
Brown
Lure
0.49 kg
Wayatinah Lagoon
Bert Thunig
Brown
Bait
1.53 kg
Woods Lake
Bert Thunig
Brown
Bait
1.30 kg
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President: Rob Chandler Secretary: Patricia Woolley Treasurer: Cheryl Page Postal Address: PO Box 16, Huonville 7109 Contact: Ph 6260 130 Meetings: Bi-Monthly
Huon Licensed Anglers Association
I
t is with great sadness that I report the passing of Roy Cairns in December 2012. Roy was born at Surges Bay in 1927. Roy married Pauline the daughter of Eddie Beechey, one of our founding members. He built a house at Ranelagh where the family lived for many years. Roy was a STLAA delegate and club treasurer for four years. He was made a life member of the STLAA in 1983. I had the good fortune of meeting Roy while preparing for the STLAA 100 Year celebration book. He was very pleased to attend the book launch at the Salmon Ponds last November. We pass on our condolences to his children Robert and Pamela.
could pick the right time when conditions settled were rewarded. Our end of season weigh-in on the last weekend of April was memorable for all the wrong reasons. The weather played havoc with all attempts to catch fish and many excursions were cancelled. Forty eight Atlantic salmon were caught in the Huon, down by half on last season. It should be noted not all members bother to weigh in salmon. The average weight was up from the previous seasons 1300g to 1850g. Our only salmon prize for the nearest to average weight fish was won by Larry Paul with a fish weighing 1900g. Total trout caught for the season was 175 fish down from 293 last year. Over one hundred trout were caught in the Huon River and its tributaries. Forty three were landed during the Lake Burbury competition and the Great Lake provided 17 fish during the season. The average weight was 713g. This figure, twenty three grams higher than last season is affected by the 300mm limit we urge adult members to follow in the Huon. Further biasing the statistics is the catch and release practice some members undertake with trout. Dennis Griggs was a popular winner of the closest to average weight trout prize with a fish of 716 grams. Larry Paul caught the heaviest trout at 3990g and the most trout weighing in forty five. The heaviest, and most fish for a junior, went to Larry’s grandson Matthew Paul. Tricia Woolley also carried away the double winning the heaviest and the most fish for a female member. Thanks to Barry Page for continuing his good work as weigh-master.
This year saw our membership remain relatively unchanged at forty seven adult and nineteen junior members. The Club Membership Fees for 2012/13 were: Adults $25, Aged Pensioners $20, Juniors $5, the nomination Fee was $20. These fees remain the same for this season. Pre-season excitement and anticipation soon gave way to the reality that the fish in the highlands were slow to regained condition after spawning. Early in the season the higher water levels at the Great Lake and Arthur’s appear to have limited the success rate of trolling. Too much water between fish? Members who did well at the Great Lake early in the season had most success bait fishing from the shore where good size rainbows were obliging. Hopefully next season the abundant small fish in Arthurs Lake will have put on condition and provide good sport. Periodic rains through late winter and spring made for challenging conditions on the Huon. Those who
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Monthly Prizes (based on a mystery weight): Month
Mystery weight
Winner
Fish weight
August 12
867gm
Peter Fewkes
861gm
September
720gm
Larry Paul
730gm
October
430gm
Peter Fewkes
436gm
November
595gm
Tricia Woolley
562gm
December
956gm
Larry Paul
1100gm
January 13
400gm
Shaun Woolley
478gm
February
745gm
Barry Page
244gm
March
983gm
Larry Paul
1400gm
April
615gm
Matthew Paul
620gm
Heaviest Fish for Male: Larry Paul - 3990g
Most Fish for Male: Larry Paul - 45
Heaviest Fish for Female: Tricia Woolley – 1228g
Most Fish for female: Tricia Woolley - 10
Heaviest Fish for Junior: Matthew Paul - 2100g
Most Fish for Junior: Jack Mayne & Matthew Paul - 11 Grace Woolley & Thomas Lovell 7
Junior Runner Up: Codie Harris - 2004g
Bruce Woolley Perpetual Trophy : Matthew Paul – 895g (mystery weight trout)
Closest to average weight Trout (713g): Dennis Griggs - 716g
Closest to average weight Salmon (1850g): Larry Paul – 1900g
The Casting Competition was held at the Chandler’s Crabtree property on the thirtieth of June 2013 under perfect conditions for casting. This year the juniors and novices were given an advantage of extra casting attempts and included in the open division. In the fly casting competition Barry Page, no longer a novice, came first for the second year running. It might be time to let him loose on a trout with a fly rod? Rob Chandler was second and Rhys Murtagh, a junior member came third. Rob finished first in the plug casting, second prize went to Barry, and Thomas
Murtagh was third. It was great to see our junior members again in the prizes. The Murtagh boys spend plenty of time practicing in Nan and Pops backyard and it’s obviously paying off. Our Annual Dinner held at the Calvert’s Park Hall, Judbury in July this year was well attended. I take this opportunity to thank the Social Committee for their efforts. Special thanks to our sponsors Griggs Butchery who provided the meat for our dinner and Social weekends and Rod and Range who assist throughout the year with prizes for our raffles and the casting competition.
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I would also like to thank the members who attended our shack working bees and particularly acknowledge the efforts of our Secretary, Patricia Woolley and Treasurer, Cheryl Page. Rob Chandler - President
Highland Cabins and Cottages at Bronte Park Cnr Bronte Heights and Marlborough Highway, Bronte Park Tas 7140 Ph (03) 6289 1029 Email: highcabsreception@iinet.net.au www.highlandcabinstasmania.com.au
Relax …. in affordable, modern, self-contained accommodation just 3.2 kms from the exact centre of Tasmania.. Close to eleven trout fishing lakes….Enjoy … a Four Star AAA Rated home-awayfrom- home experience ….Unwind …. In Studio Apartments, Spa Cabins, Family Cottages, ...or our exclusive fly-fishing only LakeSide Lodge. “We strive to deliver the very best in quality, service and guest satisfaction”
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President: Mal Reardon Secretary: James McIlhenny Treasurer: Greg Atkins Postal Address: PO Box 242 Kingston 7051 Meetings: Last Thursday of month.
Kingborough Anglers Association
K
ingborough has had another good year with a healthy, steady membership. Many of our new members have been good contributors at field days and working bees. New members are welcome so come along and meet a lot of good people. You can also learn some good fishing techniques. Our club has many knowledgeable fishermen and I have found them very willing to provide advice to anyone interested.
We are currently extending our shack at Bronte Lagoon and by sacrificing a day fishing during the season, footings and bearers were put in place. A later working bee saw the kitchen extensions framed, roofed and wrapped in insulation with some cladding fixed. The new toilet will be our main project at our annual working bee in June. Another much needed toilet and a more workable kitchen for the bunk house area will make a big difference to the enjoyment of the shack when we have large numbers of members present.
I would like to thank our office bearers for their great work during this year, their efforts are easy to see in the smooth and efficient manner in which the club runs.
I look forward to seeing many members at our Annual Dinner and Auction night (thank you Frank). This is a highlight of our year with many bargains available. A big thank you to our sponsors who support us so generously.
Our field days have been well attended, and many fish caught. Since moving to a "catch and release" measurement system, which is optional with a weigh in and measure, the great majority of fish are released.
I look forward to seeing all members participating in activities which makes the club progress in a friendly and efficient manner.
With the decline of larger fish particularly at Arthurs Lake perhaps we should be keeping more of our catch so that sizes may increase. Our competition at Arthurs Lake this season resulted in many small fish and a lack of good condition in larger fish.
Good Luck to all members in Season 2013/2014. Mal Reardon - President
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Lake Pedder Anglers Club
President: Matthew Mallinson Vice President: John Groves Treasurer: Natalie Rowlands Secretary: Sharon Mallinson Meetings: Bi-Monthly
T
he 2012/13 year was a great one for the club, membership increased by 87 new members over the year and our club was awarded by the STLAA The Bridges Bros memorial trophy. At the STLAA annual Dinner in June, members David Wright, Ian and Rosie Cooper were also awarded Service to Angling Certificates. These club stalwarts received this for their services to the Lake Pedder Anglers club. We thank you for your dedication to our club over many years.
saw 654 fish caught and at our June long weekend competition 90 fish were caught. Throughout the year fishing parties visiting the lake have reported good catches as well. The club continues to build the club memorabilia and records displayed in the fisherman’s bar at Lake Pedder Chalet. We are searching for old photographs of club events and any items of history to the club. If you have any items you are willing to share or donate to the club we would love to hear from you. Old photos we are able to copy and return to you.
Over the past year, club members have been establishing a club pond near Ouse and our first event is planned for November. The club has continued with charity work and has chosen to concentrate on supporting Able Australia and Camp Quality and to provide them with a fishing experience at the club pond.
We have continued our safety focus at Lake Pedder by applying and successfully getting a second grant to continue the work of installing navigational beacons on the lake. It has been good to see an increasing numbers of new club members assisting at club events, working parties and attending meetings. We enjoy the new fresh ideas you bring to the club and the committee really appreciates your help. We would like to thank the committee and all those club members that continue to support the club. We look forward to enjoying time with members old and new at future club events. To find out more about club events take a look on our website or the club face book page.
The lake fished very well over the season. It must be noted that Lake Pedder is open year round so we are lucky being able to continue fishing throughout the off season. Fish size seems to have increased over the past 2 years and fish are being weighed in at club competitions up to 2kg. A lot of people have been reporting good days on the lake in all conditions, with too many areas to be named that are fishing well. Two fantastic competitions were held at Lake Pedder with a third competition planned in September. Our Australia Day week competition (Back to Pedder
Matthew Mallinson and John Groves
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36
New Norfolk Licensed Anglers Association
A
nother fishing season has passed us by and I hope everyone had a good year fishing in our great trout fishing state.
President: Tim Lowe Secretary: Justin Causby Patron: David Triffitt Meetings: 3rd Wednesday of each month
over 4 kilos, 1 over 3 kilo, 5 fish over 2 kilos with 3 of them being rainbows. In the rostered competition next season we have reintroduced a bream comp in February and a family fun weekend in December at Tarraleah in which there will be a combination of fishing, golfing & other family activities over the course of the weekend, so have a read of the comp card & keep in touch on our facebook page for further details such as accommodation in the lead up to the weekend.
The fishing season again started with the clubs opening weekend competition, which was again well attended by the angling community from other clubs in the STLAA. The fishing was again a fierce competition with the New Norfolk club just getting over the line for a win. The club wishes to thank the sponsors for the competition including Wigston’s Lures & Sports store, New Norfolk timber yard, New Norfolk Hotel, New Norfolk Caravan Park, BWS, Norske Skog & Inland Fisheries Service.
The NNLAA is once again offering the STLAA the use of the junior angling pond to hold their family day which was a huge success last year and the club will also be using the pond for their own Christmas BBQ again this year after the success of last years.
The club ran numerous successful days at our junior angling pond which was well attended by enthusiastic kids & their families all sharing in the fun & excitement of learning the basic skills that led to everyone catching heaps of fish. The club would like to thank Bushy Park Estates for the continual use of their facilities & also to Tassal & the Inland Fisheries Service for providing the fish. I would like to thank those club members who have helped out with the above mentioned events and also helping with the running of the weigh-in at the Eddie Wigston Memorial Trout Fishing Competition & also the rebuilding of the Windsor’s Corner jetty twice due to vandalism.
Windsor Corner rebuild after vandals destroyed twice during the season. Club meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at the New Norfolk Council Social Rooms from 7.00pm & have been well attended by the committee.
The club held 10 trout competitions during the course of the season with 253 entries (171 seniors & 82 juniors) weighing a total of 480 fish with a total weight of 286.127kg at an average weight of 651 grams. During the season anglers also weighed in some nice fish in our monthly competitions with 2 fish
In closing a great big thanks to all our members, sponsors, partners & families for all their help and support during the course of the season that has made it the season it was. Tim Lowe – President
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Features & Special Reports Dry Fly in the Sticks by Norm Cribbin
L
ake Burbury is renowned for excellent “Wind lane” fishing and to quote the IFS Angler Access brochure for Lake Burbury. “For the fly fisher Lake Burbury has some of the best wind lane fishing in Tasmania. Early in the morning, after a large midge hatch, it is not uncommon to encounter a wind lane abundant with surface feeding rainbow and brown trout.”
Time for departure arrived and with the campervan fully stocked up and the boat hooked up, I was ready to head around to the Thureau Hills campsite on the western shore of Lake Burbury. My travelling companion for the 3.5 hour trip was Neil Pinkard. The plan was to meet at Granton and then travel in convoy. The normal pre-departure mobile calls were made. Neil advised that he was about to hook his boat up to the mighty “Wasp” (Yellow Toyota HiAce Campervan), so I headed out to the agreed meeting location. Shortly after departing I received a mobile call, “Its Neil here, I can’t find the trailer electrical adaptor. I’m waiting for Sam (Neil’s son) to bring his around. I will be about 20 minutes late.” After waiting for approximately 45 minutes in the rain at Granton, Neil finally arrived. Neil apologetically explained that Sam’s adaptor did not fit and this required the purchase of a new adaptor, hence the additional delay. It was now 11 am so the ETA, including a break for lunch at the Hungry Wombat Cafe – Derwent Bridge was around 3 pm Friday.
The wind lane feeders are a significant drawcard that ensure my annual return to Lake Burbury each Australia Day long weekend. Chasing cruising fish sipping down midges in the wind lane slicks during the piccaninny dawn is very addictive. Selecting a fly, finding a suitable wind lane with abundant food, locating a feeding fish, working out its speed and direction (normally up wind but of late they seem to go in any direction), positioning the boat, making the cast, working the fly with full anticipation of the fish picking up the movement, the take as the fish engulfs the fly and the ensuing battle is difficult to put into words. With the above in mind, my preparations for the annual trip to Lake Burbury began some four months previous. With Australia Day 2013 falling on a Saturday an extended stay of 4 full days required leave applications from both work and home. Work required the normal advance warning and mandatory application forms. Home is always a bit more tricky, avoiding clashes with social calendar dates, regular minders that I intend to go fishing and will be away for effectively six days in January and ensuring that all the domestic tasks are completed beforehand.
After arriving at the Thureau Hills campsite and the usual greetings with those Club members already in attendance, conversation soon centred on how the fishing has been so far. Unfortunately the reports were not good. It had been windy in the mornings and midge hatches had been insignificant to non-existent. The resulting wind lane fishing during the previous two days had been very poor. On the bright side Vince Coyte reported some success on the dry fly, picking up 6 browns from around the “Sticks” in the evenings. Wind lane fishing over the next 4 days continued to be very slow with only one
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morning producing a moderate midge hatch. That morning saw a good number of fish moving but they proved difficult to tempt. Personally I managed three Rainbows with the best fish being 46 cm in length (nose to fork) and weighing 1.2 kg uncleaned, the condition factor was calculated as 44. A trout with a condition factor of 43 is considered to be in perfect condition and proportion; rarely will Lake Burbury Rainbows be caught that are in poor condition.
drowned trees is no easy task. The average size of the Brown trout found in the sticks is around 37 cm with specimens of 42 cm common. Very occasionally a Rainbow trout will be found in the sticks and these prove to be worthy adversaries with long and deep powerful runs. Successful dry fly fishing in the sticks depends on a number of factors, some of which are completely out of your control. Water level and temperature, air temperature, wind speed and direction, cloud cover and the previous occurrences of hatching mayflies being the main variables that influence dry fly fishing in the sticks. Of all natural variables the most important is the previous occurrences of hatching mayfly which results in considerable numbers of mayfly spinners congregating in the shallow wind sheltered bays. It’s these mayfly spinners that really get the fish looking skyward (see Mayfly Life Cycle). The trout seem unable to help themselves when the mayfly spinners fly just above the surface, seemingly tempting the trout to try and take them down.
Given the poor conditions for wind lane fishing, both in the morning and the evening, my attention focused on searching along the shore lines for fish. It wasn’t long before I sighted the odd fish jumping in the shallow wind sheltered bays amongst the densely timbered sections. At first the temptation is to dismiss these fish as small and too difficult to extract (loss of flies and leaders etc.), however with a bit of careful positioning and accurate short casting they can be extracted. Dry fly fishing in the sticks is both challenging and action packed. Tempting a Brown trout, firstly to take your fly and then keep the fish from wrapping itself around the numerous
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Whilst nature’s variables can’t be changed, your angling approach can and it contributes significantly to successful hooking and subsequent landing of trout that reside in the sticks. Key considerations in approach include:
In the image below the boat has been positioned to allow easy casting into the two pockets either side of the drowned tree centre frame, a third drift is also available in the extreme right of frame. A natural drift can be more readily achieved on the left of the tree than the right. The delivery cast for the right pocket would be best to incorporate a lazy “S” to allow the fly to have a longer period of natural drift. If a hook up is made in either pocket the fish must be kept on the surface and played with sufficient force to quickly bring it forward of the tree, once in this position the fish can be played with less force until ready to bring to the net.
Boat position with respect to the prevailing wind and spacing between the sticks. Casting angle with respect the prevailing wind and the density of sticks protruding above the surface in the casting area. Leader profile, length and floatability. Ability to lay the leader and line down with a lazy “S” to provide a natural drift. Fly selection. A strategy for landing your trout after hook up.
After you position the boat and have established the fishable areas take time to observe the water. If you see a trout
jump to capture one of the many mayfly spinners in your casting areas, resist the temptation to cast immediately. Instead
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watch to see if the fish returns to the same general location or is on a random search for the mayfly spinners. A lot of the time the trout will work through an area in a straight line, so casting to where you saw the fish jump will mean you are casting to a fishless zone. Try and work out the trout’s beat and place your fly in a strategic position of entrapment.
the pattern). It immediately accounted for three nice Brown trout before the fourth trout kept it during a solid fight. Unfortunately I only had one left and I was not prepared to lose it (required as a template for future ties). Looking through my fly box, I spied a version of Gibson’s Paradun that I tied myself. It looked like it would fit the bill. Whilst it did account for a few fish it did not get the response from the trout I was expecting. It had the correct dark red brown colour on the upper portion of the parachute hackle but was a bit light on the underside (see inset in the image below). I then selected a parachute spinner pattern of my own design which is quite dark in colour on both sides of the parachute hackle (grizzly dyed brown saddle hackle). It also incorporates an amber Antron post, which makes this low profile fly easy to see on the water surface from the angler’s perspective. The actual fly in the image below accounted for 13 Brown trout and remains in a fishable condition.
Taking time to observe the water also gives you a chance to make a better fly selection. Look at the colour of the mayfly spinners and endeavour to match the colour and silhouette of a spent mayfly spinner. There may not be any on the water at the time you are fishing but the trout are expecting to see them sometime, so give them what they are expecting. Trout like most creatures in the wild can’t resist an easy meal, and a spent mayfly spinner fits the order nicely. My first fly selection was a mayfly spinner pattern I had just tied the previous week (I have been sworn to secrecy by the angler who showed me
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A leader length of around 12 foot with a stiff butt section, supple middle section and tippet provides good directional control in wind. It also allows the leader to be cast with a lazy “S” when casts are made directly down wind. It is also good practice to create a lazy “S” in the fly line during the cast to further extend the natural drift. The leader with the exception of the tippet should be regularly greased to ensure that it floats at all times. A leader that starts sinking is likely to catch on sub-surface sticks and also drags the fly under the water surface on pickup, increasing the risk of snagging the fly.
averaging 35 cm with the best being 39 cm (0.7 kg uncleaned). Vince Coyte, Neil Pinkard and Gerry Fitzgibbon also fished the sticks a various times and in total we boated 34 Brown trout, the best being a 42 cm specimen caught by Neil. Needless to say not all fish hooked will be landed, sometimes the fly will pull out in the initial fight, other times the trout will successfully reach the sticks and snag the leader. It is sometimes possible to free a snagged fish but it is not unusual to only get your fly back with no fish attached. Dry Fly in the sticks is to be recommended next time the wind lane fishing at Lake Burbury is slow.
I fished the sticks each afternoon from around 4 pm to 7pm and over five sessions boated 18 brown trout
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Maintaining Biodiversity Upper Derwent - Highland Lakes Region
T
he Derwent Catchment NRM Committee and the Southern Highlands Progress Association are currently planning the third year of facilitating a collaborative approach to multi land tenure weed control in the Central Highlands of Tasmania. We have been working in partnership with private land owners, Transend, Aurora, Crown Land Services, Parks and Wildlife Service, Invasive Species Unit (DPIPWE), Central Highlands Council, Norske Skog, Tasmanian Land Conservancy, Inland Fisheries and Hydro Tasmania. The 2012-13 weed control season saw progress made at most sites. This year, maintaining or increasing biodiversity is the approach for prioritising weed control efforts and investment. Weed control fits well within this criteria, especially with the natural assets contained within the Central Highlands.
cups out of. The Kingborough Anglers boosted volunteer numbers that day as well as providing a great BBQ venue. Thank you Kingborough Anglers.
To summarise:
Bradys Lake saw follow up control occur at the dam wall on English Broom plants, along the fire trail at the back of the shacks and on number of private blocks. The Progress Association was successful in obtaining funding to purchase native plants as a trade-off where English Broom plants featured in shack owners gardens.
Lake Binney saw the removal of a small stand of mature and juvenile English Broom plants.
Bronte Lagoon received a great turnout of 11 persons at the weed working bee near the Geographic Surveyors Monument. We cut and painted English Broom plants that had stumps you could wood turn egg
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Dee Lagoon received assistance from Transend, Aurora, Forestry Tasmania, Hydro Tasmania, NRM South funding and volunteer weed working bees making visible progress to reducing the extent of the English Broom and Gorse infestation in this area.
The Great Lake English Broom control at Dud Bay received in kind support from Norske Skog and investment from Crown Land Services. We are pleased to say, the thickest infestation has seen two consecutive years of control with some great results. Work also started at the Beamont Memorial and has progress towards Haddens Bay.
encouraging participation from the Glenorchy Anglers as there is an area of land close to their shack that requires English Broom control.
The proposed Ragwort control program for the eastern side of the Great Lake did not get off the ground this season, unfortunately little to no interest has been shown. The Derwent Catchment NRM Committee are still looking for interest and support in this program.
The Bronte Lagoon weed working bee this year will focus on the Woodwards Canal area Dee Lagoon will receive follow up and additional work on Hydro Tasmania and Forestry Tasmania land and under the Transend and Aurora power lines.
Gunns Lake, Little Lake, Woods Lake Road, Reynolds Neck area, Pine Lake, Liawenee Canal, Lake Sorell and Lake Crescent are other sites that received weed control works during the 2012-13 season.
NRM South will continue to invest into the Word Heritage Weed buffer program and at the Interlaken Ramsar site through their funding program requirement of maintaining biodiversity.
The old Hydro village site at Butlers Gorge saw almost two months’ worth of work mapping, marking and poisoning a plant called Orange Hawkweed. This plant was once popular in old gardens and has become established at a number of remote sites that were once occupied by workers building the power generation infrastructure. It is also present at the old Shannon village, Miena, Derwent Bridge, Flintstone Waste Water Treatment Plant and Poatina Main Road.
We have a small number of volunteers that registered at the Liawenee Trout weekend to assist with ragwort control on the eastern shore of the Great Lake. The DCNRMC are currently working on formalising this program with the relevant land managers before a Wildcare group can be formed. Well that's the overview of the weed program, if you are interested in helping out, or have plants you think may be weeds on your land. Please don't hesitate in calling either Kathy on 62541311or Steve on 0428 863 323
Well, what next. The DCNRMC are lobbing all participating government agencies and private land owners to reinvest into weed control for 2013-14. Responses to date have been positive. A number of funding grants are pending as the Federal Government are currently in care taker mode. If successful these funds will assist the Gorse and Ragwort program in the Interlaken area and the Orange Hawkweed program at known sites.
Weed control is important in ensuring the area we love to be, stays in pretty good shape for years to come. Kathy Van Dullemen Secretary Derwent Catchment NRM Committee Secretary Southern Highlands Progress Association
For the Bradys area, the Southern Highlands Progress Association are
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The Rebirth of Strathgordon’s Trevor the Trout by David Wright
F
or many years a brown trout hung at the entrance to Lake Pedder Chalet welcoming visitors to the lake, without doubt the largest fish to live at Pedder and photographed by people from all over the world. But over the years the weather took toll of the big fish and his fiberglass body fell. He had disappeared from the village and Lake Pedder Club members were asking what happened to our big fish.
new address Shark Point Road what an address for a trout. On arrival Trevor was placed on the ground, Matthew studied the old fish and decided the fiberglass doctor would be the best place for his repair. A few months in with the Glass Doctor and he started to take shape of a fish again, although Albino in colour.
Lake Pedder Anglers Club went through a committee change and in June 2011 new president, Matthew Mallinson set out to find Trevor the Trout (as Nigel Heaven who had him made had named him years ago), with the determination of a detective Matthew located Trevor under the swimming pool at Strathgordon. Club members were at Pedder when Matt announced Trevor had been found. Later on we were told, he had been found on the tip obviously tossed out by workers who didn’t know of his significance to the village and club. Brett Brady had found Trevor and brought him back to the storage area under the pool for safe keeping. Matthew and members headed for the pool and located the broken trout.
Matthew had made many visits supervising the repair of the big fish, determined to fix the trout. One night I got a phone call from Matthew inviting me down to see Trevor the next day, I jumped at the chance after several stops at paint shops and hardware stores for the gear to finish Trevor I was introduced to the big albino fish with sand paper placed in my hand, an hour had gone by with me sanding and Matthew filling small holes in the glass body to make him ready for his colours and dots that would make him look like a fish again. After the last coat Matthew stood back looked at the fish and said too bloody light, looks like a sea run trout, needs to be darker and more spots.
Trevor was loaded into Matthew’s boat for the trip out of Lake Pedder for the first time in years, not many fish get to ride in Matt’s boat although he tells a different story. The trout headed for a
Next day after another stop at the paint shop, he got his final paint colours and dots. He looked like a million dollars although still blind. I thought I could contribute some eyes to Trevor and was
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given the OK for the fish’s sight. A couple of days of the pain drying then Trevor was taken back to Matt’s place ready for transport back to Pedder.
traffic with cars hopping from lane to lane, and then it happened. A chain reaction emergency stop I applied the brakes as a small car took up the little space I had left in front with a four wheel lock up drift towards the car I had vision of Trevor going into the Derwent River. A glance in the side mirror and releasing brake pedal the vehicle veered to the right hand lane with the small car disappearing under our bonnet missed by the thickness of an A4 sheet of paper. We regained control and Matt’s on the phone saying all’s good Trevor was still on his perch. Matthew’s engineering on the gantry saved the trout. Trevor on his way back to Pedder was a traffic stopper with many people turning to look at the big fish on his way home. When we arrived at Lake Pedder Chalet, Trevor was greeted by tourists and old members who had travelled up for the weekend just to see Trevor hung back at Strathgordon. Four hours later Trevor was hanging above the chalet being photographed again by visitors. Trevor was home.
A phone call from Matthew asking could I tow his tool trailer to Lake Pedder with the equipment to mount Trevor at the chalet. On the way to Matt’s place the wife and I were discussing how to transport the fish to protect paint and large fins. Our questions were answered Trevor was mounted on top of the trailer swinging from chains on a gantry.
Matthew had called John Groves to come round early that morning to help lift Trevor onto the Trailer after an unsuccessful attempt with Sharon and the boys the night before. We set off in heavy rain entering the Tasman Bridge in the left lane, confronted slow moving
David Wright
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Back to Pedder 2013 by Justin Causby
T
he Back to Pedder 2013 trout fishing comp was run and won over the Australia day long weekend. The Lake Pedder Anglers Club held another very successful event with around 200 entrants taking part raising some good funds for Camp Quality and Able Australia along the way.
cleared to a rather nice afternoon after some of the strongest winds and biggest rain squalls I’ve ever seen. The waves were a decent size too as we surfed a few trying to make for cover on the eastern bays in the straight westerly. A beautiful still morning greeted us on day 3 and things were looking good with two quick fish landed on the fly taking a midge readily. It was a promising start until I picked up my Sage Z-axis only to snap it clean in half under the front port cleat!
The fishing over the 5 day event was pretty good with over 700 trout being weighed in by the club during the event. The weather was very kind all bar Friday morning where a storm front pushed through the south west bringing very high winds and an inch of rain fell at the Strathgordon Chalet in two hours.
Day 4 and it was wearing us down but we held on and fished hard again. Rewarded with some good numbers again but at the end of the day we decided that Day 5 would be no fishing for us. Well and truly done and dusted and very content with what we had achieved.
Some good bags were taken by the top teams and I was lucky enough to find a few fish and be part of the winning team, Sebile Old Fellows/Tassie Devil Lures, fishing with Laurie Harrison, Martin Exel and Tim Lowe. We landed around 150 fish for the event which was a great result.
Heaviest fish for the event was caught by junior angler Dylan Loh at 1.274kg. He unluckily missed an even better fish a few minutes later. It may be the last time I offer him a ride in the boat! Another junior angler took out the prestigious heaviest 6 fish bag trophy with a 4.742kg total. LPAC member Jesse Glowacki was the successful angler. That’s a very good bag from Pedder and a top effort for any angler. Saturday night’s auction raised $3500 with funds going to the worthy charities in Camp Quality and Able Australia. Laurie Harrison once again did a fantastic job extracting the best prices from the crowd as the auctioneer.
Tim Lowe with a typical dark Lake Pedder Brown trout. The fishing was very good on the first day and both myself and Tim Lowe managed to take our 20 fish bag each, or at least we thought we did going back into the ramp with 39 when we pulled the pin. Some atrocious weather on Day two made the going a little tough but it
The funds for Camp Quality will be used to take QC members to the LPAC angling pond that they established last year. Camp Quality members and their families will attend a day at the pond to
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fish for the Ian Wigston Memorial Shield.
winner of a Watersnake Electric Outboard. As he came forward to collect the rather large box he jokingly said “I might go and fit it to my new boat right now”, gesturing to the 4.6m runabout from Tristar Marine sitting outside.
Able Australia’s Tasmanian branch will benefit directly from the funds and be used to assist families in need. I can’t miss out on a big thanks to Neville and Sue for looking after everyone at the Lake Pedder Chalet. As a venue the location is unbeatable. Great value meals and accommodation.
For the main draw of the boat all tickets are placed back in the barrel and its rolled around and stirred up. I called Pater Fisher up from Tristar Marine to draw the winning ticket, he reached in and drew out ticket A54. You guessed it, Martyn Evans once again!! The odds of that I’m guessing are extremely remote. Those that know Marty would be surprised to see he was genuinely struck for words. It was great to see the prize meant a lot to win and was greatly appreciated. All I can say is congratulations and well deserved. I presented Marty with the winning ticket outside which I’m sure will be kept in his wallet as a good luck charm from that day forward.
On to the boat. For many years now there has been a boat, motor and trailer package given away to a lucky angler as part of the major draw. All you have to do is take part. Every year there is a bit of a story and this year was no exception. The previous two years it was junior anglers at the event that were the lucky recipients. Harry Corner in 2011 and Campbell Evans last year in 2012. As we moved through the major prize draw we got down to number 2 and Martyn Evans, Campbell’s father and Mayor of the Derwent Valley was drawn out as the
Panoramic shot of Strathgordon boat ramp.
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Fishermen’s Huts on the Derwent River by Ray Aitchison
E
arly in February Bob Ward, Des Cranfield, Peter Wood and myself had a meeting at which they spoke about what they knew about the various fishermen’s huts on the lower Derwent River.
Peter Wood has documentation written by his father, Merv, regarding trips to Cramp’s tin hut which was situated about 300 to 400 metres upstream of Green Point at the mouth of the Jordan River, the Sow and Pigs reef is nearby. This hut was used frequently, especially by W. T. Cramp, whose family had the Cramp’s Coach Building business in Hobart. Cramp’s were better known in the angling field for their involvement with the Southern Tasmanian Licensed Anglers’ Association, the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries and the Inland Fisheries Commissions.
Few people today would know that once there were several fishing huts or shacks on the banks of the Derwent River between Old Beach and the Roadman’s cottage site. The above names persons plus Barry Sherriff have some knowledge of these buildings and have made this available to share. Bob knew of a hut on the Northern bank of the Derwent at Old Beach opposite Cadburys which was owned by four friends. Francois Fouche tried all ways possible to have this hut removed but the owners had done their homework correctly and everything was above board and the weekender stayed. Francois Fouche, a professional wrestler, was an interesting character. During World War Two he was running an unlicensed dine and dance hall called “The Stage Door” which was underground in Elizabeth Street, Hobart. An altercation at the venue lead to Fouche being charged with manslaughter and even though he was found not guilty his public image suffered and the dance hall closed in 1946. He attempted to build a luxury hotel complex in Old Beach but fire gutted the building site and Fouche ran into financial difficulties. The hut was frequently used and crossing the river wasn’t a problem as Don Mollineaux of Austin’s Ferry would transport passengers across the river in his row boat in all weathers for a fare of three pence.
Merv Wood recalled that in 1917, “I would walk home to the “Lorne”, two miles from the Bridgewater School, on a Friday afternoon, collect a loaf of mother’s home-made bread, a bottle of milk and a billy can of jollytails which I
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had caught in the Jordan River and walk down to Cramp’s tin hut on Green Point.
Bob Ward said that many anglers used to fish this area, “Gavin Briggs would come down from Bridgewater in his boat and we would come up from Austin’s Ferry of an evening and some excellent fish were caught”.
W. T. Cramp would arrive at the Granton railway station at 2 o’clock and row across the Derwent to the tin hut. We would fish Friday night and Saturday. He would leave at about 5 p.m., row back to Granton and catch the train to Hobart. I would walk about three miles across the paddocks to home.”
Peter recalled there being a once stately home, known as Stanfield’s homestead, near where the current Bridgewater sewerage treatment is, this wasn’t connected with fishing but it was built on the waters edge, it was burnt in the 1967 bush fires.
Peter said that he had asked his sister if she had ever seen a hut at the site and even though she was born in the 1930’s it was not there during her lifetime.
Stanfield’s house on the river bank at Green Point Bob was said that halfway between this house and Cramp’s hut there was a two room humpy that had been constructed out of palings by a Hobart jockey on McShane’s property. Bob recalled spending a night in this building which he said didn’t exist for long.
said that her father, Jack Elkins, looked after this hut but she wasn’t sure whether it was on his land or he leased the land where the hut was. She also said that about fifty metres below this hut the was a drain where her father had his boat tied up but as time passed and more people got around the boat often had to be retrieved from the river after being set untied by passers-by.
Probably the best known of the huts was the one near Windy Point between the Lyell Highway and the River, just a few metres upstream from the small boat ramp. Mrs. Green, of the Bulb Farm,
Mrs Green couldn’t recall much about the hut or how its use was arranged but it
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was frequently used by Hobart anglers, she didn’t know about accommodation of cooking facilities other than that the hut had a fireplace. In front of this hut was a small jetty quite close to the small boat ramp that is currently in use.
Bridgewater station and had Lon Neilson, the Gatekeeper at the Bridgewater Bridge, or his son, Hadley, row them to Windy Point on a Friday afternoon and to be picked up on Sunday afternoon to catch the train back to Hobart.
Bob knew of Ted Reading, who worked for Charles Davis, and past STLAA. Secretary, Keith Moore, catching the train to Granton on a Friday afternoon and walking the three miles or so to spend the weekend at this hut. Des knew that others caught the train to the
Mrs Green said that many anglers used this facility and it was popular and was well used until a group of “young ones” had a party there in the late 1960’s and the hut was burnt beyond repair.
The site of the hut at Windy Point between the highway and the river Des could recall another hut near the later roadman’s cottage site that was used both by fishermen and the roadman.
With the urban sprawl and vehicles more accessible the need for most of these close to the city weekenders became evident and they were either removed or destroyed
Although not huts, Barry Sherriff took me to a site on the river bank below St Virgil’s College at Austin’s Ferry where there had been two residences built on a narrow, about 15 metre wide, strip a land between the railway line and the Derwent. Garden bed borders and garden paths are still evident, this site looks directly at the mouth of the Jordan River while to the right the Old Beach jetty is in view.
Unfortunately I have not been able to locate any photographs of any of these huts/shacks apart from a photograph of Stanfield’s house near Green Point (courtesy of Peter Wood, and there is not any remaining evidence of their existence.
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Arthur Fleming Remembered (Reprint from 1990)
T
ever caught in Great Lake, 26.25 pounds on March 8th, 1897.
Arthur Fleming was born in 1900 and passed away in 1976, he was the first, and for a long time, only Bailiff of our fishery. He was first appointed in 1932 and retired in 1964 although he did have a break in service for a few years.
The Little Lake at Breona was joined to the big lake by a creek you could jump over. This was called the Upper Shannon River in those days. Arthur recalls how he lay in wait and caught a poacher netting out spawning trout in this creek which, by the time he was bailiff, had become flooded but was still narrow enough to net. Poachers used to come up the Bridal Track from lackeys Marsh before the Lake Highway was built. Sand Bank Creek was also a favourite poaching area with wrongdoers coming up a steep track from the Cressy area.
he following memories are from a 90 minute audio tape made by the late Arthur Fleming and Don Gilmour. These memories have been previously printed in the 1990 Tasmanian Angling Report.
Arthur's father was a shepherd, first near Cramp's Bay, Great Lake and then near Liawenee. Young Arthur grew up to love and know the high country.
Cider Park got its name from the gum trees in the area. These trees had curly limbs and black bark. By drilling a hole in the tree the sap would ooze out and taste like cider. It was very potent.
Great Lakes (the big lake and several lagoons) were very shallow. The water would freeze over every year and at thaw time the ice would be driven by the winds into piles 3 or 4 feet high. Amongst this ice were dozens of frozen eels which would remain dormant and stiff until put in a container of warm water, then they would soon melt and become active again.
Brandum’s area was named after the local shepherd. Arthur said he was a tough old character, who had a magpie which he taught to talk like a brother. The bird would say "Good morning" or "Good night". Eventually it was caught by an eagle hawk and Brandum swore it said "Good bye".
The shorelines of the natural lakes were mainly shingle and sand with great banks of sand in some area. There were some mud flats near Elizabeth Bay whilst Swan Bay and Little Lake were big marshes. Swan Bay has acres of sphagnum moss beds on the western side (now Dud Bay). There was a reef from Miena to the Beehives which could be easily waded being only inches deep. In fact a ditch had to be dug to allow passage of a boat from Swan Bay to the big lake. At the southern side of the Beehives near the reef there was a dense tea tree scrub. Just to the north west of the reef along Beehive Shore there was some open clear water. It was here that Matthew Seal caught the biggest fish
In the early days of fish stripping at Great Lake the eggs would be put into a flannel bag, partly filled with water. This bag was then put into a container and packed around with sphagnum moss for travelling down to Plenty. The largest trout Arthur saw and handled in the spawning runs at Mountain Creek, Lake Sorell. The scales then available to the staff were not big enough to record the weight of the hen fish, which was measured at several points and later estimated to weigh 33 lbs by the University. An eel caught at Lake Crescent weighed 44 lbs.
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Discussing the Shannon River and Lagoon between the period 1910, when the first rock filled weir was constructed, and 1916 when the gravity dam was built (incidentally the gravity dam becomes visible when the level at Great Lake drops very low).
through to Todd's Comer region to McLanachan's. On a somewhat similar subject Arthur explained how his father and other good shepherds did their scrub burning in the spring. At that time the soil would be wet and the roots of the shrubs and trees would not be burn. The gum nuts and other native flora, which needed fire to germinate, would quickly take root and grow in the spring rains. True conservationists.
The weir had no fish pass and the large fish from Shannon Lagoon, up to 13 lbs, would be pitch forked out by shepherds as they congregated below the weir, and preserved in casks for winter food stocks.
The bitter winters of 1919 and 1921 created real problems for Arthur's shepherd father, as snow piled up more than 6 feet high all over the Liawenee area. There were big sheep losses from newly arrived herds that had not acclimatised to the conditions whilst dozens were lost as they wandered over the tops of fences, scattering for miles.
Prior to the weir, big fish from the lake would come downstream to near where the present bridge crosses the Shannon River - they would then spawn in the gravel of the river bed. Shannon Lagoon was a type of marsh covered in metre high tussock grasses with ponds scattered over its area. One deep hole was in the north east comer. The fishing in these ponds was superb big fish up to 14 lbs. Anything under 5 lbs was returned to grow up, considered as unworthy to keep. On many summers the ponds would dry up and Arthur stated it was heartbreaking to see hundreds of fish skeletons in the dried ponds.
The first fishing shack was built about 1918 on the high ground on the point of land jutting into the lake at the northern tip of Todds Comer. The Shoobridge's from Glenora built their shack on their vast leasehold at this spot. Their shepherd, Mr Todd, lived at McLanachan's and used to cross the marsh which we now know as Todd's Comer over a bridge that crossed the creek feeding out of the marsh near Shoobridge's Point. This bridge is still there and comes visible when the lake reaches its lowest levels.
When the water flow became more regular, following the construction of the weir, then the gravity dam the build-up in snowflake caddis fly created the Shannon Rise as we knew it. Arthur estimated 1912 as the first year anglers showed any interest in the event. There were many of the white flies prior to this date but not concentrated numbers sufficient to interest anglers.
A cleared track/road went from Shoobridge's Point around the eastern shore to the Sandbanks in the north east comer of Great Lake. Before the lakes were enlarged and joined into one it was possible to walk or wade across from the east to west at the point from Howell's Island slightly south of west, towards the northern shore of what we call Duck Bay. At this part of Duck Bay a big peninsula of dry land went across towards Howells Island
Discussing the many dead trees in the area, Arthur confirmed that some severe frosts would actually freeze the sap in the gum trees, causing their eventual death. The last big freeze he remembers was in 1929 and this particularly affected the forest from Penstock up
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leaving only about 200 metres of water. Arthur recalls how at One Tree Point there was 5 chains of good grazing grass before the lake was reached.
period in the Hobart Goal Several weeks after the man's release the Bothwell storekeeper reported to the police that neither the other shepherd or the old man had been into Bothwell for stores. So the police investigated.
Murderer's Hut Shore, the shore directly below the Great Lake Hotel where the road to Bronte Park commences, was named due to the following. (The hut was pulled down around 1975).
They found evidence that the old chap had been shot in the garden and the shepherd at the door of the hut, and that the bodies had been dragged and left in a stump hole and hollow tree nearly 200 metres from the hut. (Almost due north from the current hotel). The wrong doing shepherd was apprehended, confessed and was hanged
Two shepherds and an old chap lived in the hut. The old man tended the vegetable garden whilst the others tended the sheep. It appears that one shepherd sold a couple of sheep and the other two reported this to the owner, resulting in the wrongdoer spending a
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KAA Auction Guided Day by Glenn Szalman
G
raham won the Bidding war at the KAA Auction night for a special day of fishing guided by yours truly.
had. We started walking downstream for a while so that we would be back at the car for lunch.
The day finally got under way after a few attempts which were cancelled due to fires and bad weather. I picked Graham up at his place at 9am and we headed off to the Tyenna with a quick stop in New Norfolk for a coffee and to grab some lunch, all healthy of course.
The water looked really good so we both rigged up. I tied on a dry and Graham decided to double his chances by tying on a dry with a dropper. Graham hopped in and started casting first, hitting all the likely spots and even some that weren’t but for no result. Oh well on to the next hole.
I had arranged to meet the land holder and get the key from him to get into some water that doesn’t get much pressure. He mentioned that he had let another guy fish the same stretch that we were going to fish the day before. This other guy was spinning and had caught 2 large fish which that he did return, so our hopes were high.
Unfortunately we had the same luck for the next few holes - it was a bit disappointing, and we weren’t even spooking any fish. Then we came to the hole just before the car and I had had some success a few years ago in this particular pool catching a 3lb salmon with Andrew White. I mentioned this to Graham and he joked that it would be bigger now.
Once at our location we saw that the water was quite low but that was to be expected for the summer that we have
A fine Tyenna River Brown Trout
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He fished the pool as you would, from the tail towards the head, and again nothing. He continued to fish right up into the head of the pool and I was right behind him as he cast right up into where the water was rushing in. Watching the dry bobble its way down the run we both saw this head come out and snaffle the fly - Graham lifted the rod and the fish was on, much to my relief. There was a serious bend in Grahams 4wt and hopes were high for a good fish: hopes were soon realised when we got a glimpse of the fish. Finally the fish tired and I was able to net it. Graham’s net had a set of in built scales so we weighed it and it came out to be 4lbs and in magnificent condition.
another day, unfortunately Graham was not as graceful as I had hoped and I think was a bit attached to the fish and followed the fish into the water whilst releasing it. Neither of us thought that the water was that deep!!! Luckily we were at the car and Graham could get out of his wet waders and dry off while we had lunch. We fished on after lunch through some lovely water which all looked very promising but we struggled to even see a fish, we were lucky that the one we did catch was a beauty. We decided to call it quits and make our way back. We took the key back to the land owner and headed back to Hobart with the memory of the 4lb Brown to keep a smile on our faces until the next trip out fishing.
Time for a few quick photos and then to be gracefully released back to fight
21st Annual Eddie Wigston Memorial by Justin Causby The 21st Annual Edie Wigston Memorial Trout Contest was run and won in chilly, wet and windy conditions over the weekend in the Bronte Park region. 49 teams and 111 competitors took part braving the conditions and thoroughly enjoyed the hospitality of Bill and Ros at the Bronte Park Chalet on Sunday at the conclusion of the event.
up a couple of podium finishes. This year unfortunately water levels were a little low and had been returning from very low levels where work on repairing the levee dam and installing a new ramp and pontoon were taken out. Several teams had turned to King William and also Laughing Jack has become popular with some very good bags of fish here with great condition and average size to make it a wise destination.
Teams can fish a variety of waters from St Clair and King William in the west to Echo in the east and Little Pine in the north to Tungatinah south and all the waters in between. Lake Echo is traditionally the favoured water and sees probably better than half the field each event. Bronte Lagoon in the past few years has been quite popular and turned
Entrants were on par with 2012 although the lakes fished a little harder this year with just 177 fish landed compared to 268 the year before. Average size was slightly up at 0.398kg.
The individual awards were as follows:
6-13 yrs Heaviest Fish – Tiarna Pearce 0.995kg 14-17 yrs Heaviest Fish – Jaydon Pearce 0.750kg Ian Wigston Memorial Heaviest Overall – Noreen Shearing 1.445kg Betty Barratt Memorial, Female Mystery Weight – Noreen Shearing 0.270kg
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For the teams event and a spot on the Eddie Wigston Memorial Shield the results were relatively close between the three top teams:
1st: Devil Worship – 42 fish, 12.205kg – Tim Lowe, Justin Causby 2nd: Valley Boys – 28 fish, 10.775kg – Jeff Heawood, Scott & Noreen Shearing 3rd: Tairyo 2 – 19 fish, 10.100kg – Steve Linton, Matthew Linton, Mark Bell
Tairyo 2 fished Laughing Jack Lagoon and landed probably the pick of the bags over the competition with some very good conditioned trout. Second placed Valley Boys fished Lake Echo and had a few sold fish including the biggest for the comp lifting their bag weight to almost take it out.
managed just one each in icy conditions but the last was close to a kilo which got us over the line. The King William fish this year were very poor in condition and size with the lake also down considerably compared to the season before. It was a tough bite and we had to work very hard in some very testing conditions to land our target goal. It was another very successful event with a great friendly atmosphere at the Bronte Park Highland Village on Sunday. As mentioned Bill and Ros are great hosts and it was fantastic to see the hard work they too had put in to make it a big weekend. Many thanks to Mavis Russell and Tim Lowe from the New Norfolk Anglers Club for running the very smooth weigh-in.
A very solid Bronte Brown from the 21st Eddie Wigston Memorial
Also a big thanks to all the entrants that make the event what it is. Absolutely fantastic to see so many juniors at the comp and most of them won rods and reels and various other bits and pieces from the Fisherman’s Pie Prize Draw. The first three names drawn out won a Plano Tackle Box full of Tassie Devil Lures from JM Gilles and Wigston’s Lures. Around 50 draws were conducted so it was a pretty good chance to win a prize.
Valley Boys fished Echo as they always do and returned another good bag to see them take second place after a few years away from the event touring around Australia. Echo has been suffering from low levels for several years again and a huge head of fish making for some average conditioned fish. Catch rates are still very good although not on par with 5-6 years ago. As part of Devil Worship, fishing with my best mate Tim Lowe we hit King William on Saturday and spent Sunday morning on Bronte Lagoon trying to land some better fish to add to our full 40 fish bag on day one. We
The next event is schedule for the third weekend of March once again next year.
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Shore Bashing Derwent Sea Runners by Justin Causby It’s only a short walk and since the closing of the access track has largely been forgotten as a top fishing location on the river. Nothing has changed other than the need to walk from your vehicle. It is the only place on this side of the river where the channel edge passes the shore between the Bridgewater Bridge and many miles west to the speed boat club. Great fishing can be found here right from the start of the season. A good high tide is recommended here and fish can be found tight in as a there is a false gutter that extends along the bank here up into the marshland ahead.
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robably the most common question I’m asked is, “where is the best place to catch a sea-runner from the shore. I don’t have a boat but I’d really like to catch myself one.” It’s almost like people have the preconceived idea that if you don’t have access to a boat you’re behind the eight ball to start with. We the truth is very different and the majority of my best fish in the last season were all landed from the shore, and the Derwent being what it is offers a multitude of great options. A couple are almost guaranteed to land you a silver bullet on the right tide and time of the day.
9. Masons Point – 500m west of the Bridgewater McDonalds roundabout you will find Riverside Dr which leads you to Mason’s Point on the northern side of the Derwent upstream of the Bridgewater Bridge. Some years ago the access road extended all the way up to the back of Dromedary Marsh but is now boom-gated right on the point proper. The best fishing starts immediately at the gated area and extends several hundred meters around in to the bay itself. The shore is lined with rushes and has a predominately weedy bottom with a few rocky ledges which provide solid access out in to the river. This shore is a gem and provides scope for all angling methods. Best fishing is on a high tide, where trout will chase bait hard in to the banks, continuing as it runs out. All manner of lure, fly and soft plastics will produce here. Very popular location from day one of the season. At the parking area there is a jetty leading out into the water. Give this a miss, instead don a pair of waders and fish the gutter that follows the bank from here all the way to the bridge. It’s a trout feeding highway. Fished very little, holding large numbers of fat hungry trout.
In this article I’ll list 10 of the shore based hot spots that will get you on the right track to success. Granted reading a few words in a magazine is no substitute for time on the water and that’s what is necessary to arm yourself with the attitude and tactics to bring a few fish to the bank. We’ll start upstream and work our way south.
Typical Derwent Sea-Runner 10. Lime Kilns – Approx 4km west of the Granton roundabout you will find the historic remnants of the Lime Kilns. The access road has been fenced off due to several accidents but there is ample room for parking 200m down the road near the entrance to the nearby winery.
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8. Bridgewater Bridge - This could be broken down into several different areas all with their unique strategies for success. The Causeway itself offers fantastic fishing. Kept quiet for many years be devotees in recent times the internet has paved way for many secret spots to become well known. The upstream side offers a god gutter with excellent tidal flow, the key to Derwent success in most instances. The run out your best bet and again is popular from day 1 of the season. The lower side is open to year round fishing as the bridge itself is the boundary. The abutment on the Hobart side is a good spot although not one I frequent too often. The bridge itself of a night time is probably the number one spot for BIG Derwent trout. Bait fishing here is the key with a local sandy, prettyfish or jollytail, drifting in the current behind the many pylons. Anglers line up here nearing the start of the season and with many double figure fish falling it easy to see why. Anglers walk their fish to the abutment to be netted.
me, and all by the one person. He fishes no lower in the river as ‘cod’ steal his baits he says. He fishes a fresh jollytail and the bottom half of the run out tide. He has his secret little tweaks to his rigs but it’s pretty basic. Throw it out in to the current swing it down and draw it back along the edge. The whole shore here is a good place to throw lure and plastics in daylight hours and one can walk for about 1km to the next little bay obstructs further access. The channel edges runs along the weed line close and is a good spot to wander and prospect. 5. Dragon Point – This is the northern extremity that makes up the Cadburys arm. Access is by foot and parking on the flat before the hill climbs up to the Cadbury’s factory. Made famous by Cliff Smith who almost lived here and was probably the most successful angler on the Derwent that I’m aware of. He fished a bait on the old Bridgewater rig which involved a fixed hook, a sliding treble, cast lightly on a fly rod. Thrown out in to the current again allowed to swing around and drawn slowly back to the angler. This point has no doubt seen many trophy fish over the years. These days you’d be lucky to find and angler there. I know I haven’t seen anyone in the visits I have made.
7. Nielsen Esplanade – Where you might ask? Otherwise known as the Bridgewater Bridge boat ramp shore. About 300m below the boat ramp an old fence meets the water on the point. The river is deep here right on the bank. Fish it deep with a weighted soft plastic, 1/12th is about as light as you want and sometimes heavier as the best tide is a hard run out and you need to get down in the water column somewhat. A further 100m around the little bay a second point meets the channel edge before the shallow open expanses of the marsh below. This point on its day is a cracker. I find it a little hit and miss but when it’s on its fantastic. Much shallower than the first point and suited to all angling methods and can be fished year round.
4. Murtons Rd/Woodville Bay – heading north out of Otago Bay you will find Murtons Rd in the dip at the base of the big hill on the East Derwent H’way. This short road leads you to a small one or two vehicle parking area and the water’s edge where you’ll find a rather peaceful and attractive shoreline. It’s a ripper spot and there is hardly ever a day where you won’t find a trout here. Fish the shore from the car park area down to Woodville Bay, around 300m. I like and outgoing tide here once again but from high to about half way out. Lure, fly and plastics all good choices.
6. Old Beach Jetty – The amount of big fish I have seen caught here after dark on the run out tide never ceases to astound
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3. Otago Bay – Surprisingly this extremely easy to access and highly rewarding spot only sees the occasional angler. It’s rare I choose to fish here and find someone already there. Parking is right near the old Otago shipwreck but be careful not to obstruct the Bus Stop area. Further parking is 100m away near the intersection to the East Derwent H’way. Fishing here can be exceptional. Again a run out tide is a bonus. The points either side of the wrecks are the hot spots. No need to wander far, I prefer to wade out and stay there. Just keep making casts and you will catch fish.
whitebait that waits for a suitable tide to move upstream. The run out tide is imperative to successful fishing, it holds bait fish up and allows trout and easy meal. The fast current not the whitebait’s friend. The whole shoreline back into Risdon Cove is fishable and does hold fish. I tend to focus on the last 500m out to the point itself. Generally fishing hard bodies until last light then moving to soft plastics. Tactics Lures and Rigs Overall on the Derwent a run out tide is the key to getting the most out of your fishing. The harder it rips the better the fishing generally. There are a couple of spots there where the high tide is advantageous but they are the exception to the rule.
2. Bowen Bridge – Not far to the south is the Bowen Bridge. Plenty of parking here and the shore from under the bridge for a few hundred meters all worth exploring. Just below the bridge there is a deeper hole that tends to fish well. You can easily find the edge of this on about half tide. The gently sloping shelf extends north and allows for very comfortable wading and fishing. It’s also a fantastic spot to fish plastics of a night time. If you aren’t in to the bait thing this technique works extremely well. Gulp plastics I find are the best of a night although there are a myriad of choices out there these days. The lights from the bridge high above create a great silhouette and it’s possible to see trout following plastics back to your feet on nights when they aren’t taking aggressively.
I fish with straight through Fluorocarbon usually at around 3-6lb. If fishing after dark though I do prefer to fish braid with a 6lb leader. You can feel the slightest touch that little bit better and it’s good to make the most of your opportunities if out late on a cold dark Tassie night early in the season. Lure choice, I’ll leave up to you. There are so many out there and they all catch fish. Anything that resembles a bait fish will work. Matching the hatch ideally although I do tend to totally disregard that if fish are smashing small whitebait. I like to throw them something bigger, something that might stand out from the school and may get hit as the odd meal out. The same applies to plastics. Anything that looks like a baitfish and you’re half way there.
1. Store Point – Last but not least, one of my favourite spots on the Derwent. Leaving the East Derwent H’way at Risdon Cove is Saundersons Rd. This leads you out to Store Point directly opposite Nyrstar (zinc works). The point itself is dynamite late evening and in to the night. There is a deep drop here and trout hold or school here to feed on
Check your rules and regulations as many of these spots can be fished year round.
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Tup’s Indispensable by Wilfred Knight (reprint from Trout 2002) name goes over his Lordship’s head However, the gillie explains to his Lordship, it is essential to ensure the fly is dampened before being cast, to ensure it sinks quickly. Saying this, our friend motions that the fly should be drawn through the lips.
I
pride myself in having a sense of humour. I enjoy listening to a good yarn and I like telling jokes. Perhaps in another life I could have been a stand-up comedian. I like my humour to be subtle and well crafted as opposed to would be ‘jokes’ designed to shock or disgust. My favourite comedians are Victor Borge, Peter Sellers, Woody Allen and the bloke that created the “Tup’s Indispensable”
His Lordship, having complied with instructions had sprung the trap as it were and that should have been the end of the matter. Something our gillie friend could savour in the telling to his mates over a quiet pint at the pub. But this is where fate stepped in. That smelly bit of yellow stained wool actually caught some fish, quite a few in fact. That evening over port and cigars, his Lordship regaled his audience with the sport of the day and sang the praises of the ‘new fly’ and so a myth was born. For his sins, the gillie and his mates were probably required to shear rams where they were never intended to be shorn, to keep up with the demand for material for the new fly. When the fame of the “Tup’s Indispensable” had spread far and wide and shearing ram’s testicle had become almost a full time job it was no good throwing up one’s hands in the air and saying “Hold on, this was a joke for God’s sake” Who was going to believe it anyway!
For those new to fly fishing, or too young to remember, a Tup is a ram and the “Tups indispensable” is made from urine stained wool from around its testicles. Now come on! Who in his right mind would have seriously thought that wee-wee soaked wool from a belligerent male sheep is going to tempt a trout. It was originally stated that the urine created a yellow colour that was impossible to replicate in any other way. That smells to me like the groundwork in a well thought out leg pull.
As always, when someone hits on a winner, big business stepped in and it wasn’t long before several reputable suppliers of fly tying materials marketed “Tups” wool. Whether this was the genuine wee-wee stained article or something that had been sanitised, I do not know.
I have mused over the introduction of this fly to the angling fraternity and the one that appeals to me most is the scenario where a downtrodden gillie, who is being given a hard time by a member of the ‘gentry’ and is not having a good day, produces this ‘fly’ and swears by its ability to catch trout by the score. Just to rub it in, he informs his Lordship the fly is called a “Tup’s indispensable” but the implication in the
Now it’s a well known fact that I am a collector of fly tying materials and I set out to find out if any of this elusive material was still available. (I particularly wanted to see if I could
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persuade someone to draw it through their lips before casting.) but, to date, in spite of my best efforts, I have drawn a blank.
original condition, dampness not being a problem. But in most cases my enquiries have failed to elicit a reply. So if anyone knows of a placid ram, preferably old, deaf and short sighted, would they please let me know. I’d like to perpetuate the joke.
I sent e-mails to most of the world’s best known suppliers and was quite specific as to my requirements, urine stained wool from the testicles of a ram in its
Obituaries delegate to the parent body for four years. In 1983 he was awarded Life Membership to the STLAA. Roy expressed much appreciation for his invite to commemorate the 100th year of the STLAA and thanks to Rob Chandler was able to attend the event at the Salmon Ponds in November, 2012. He spent his last month’s living at the St Anne’s Rest Home where he passed away on December the 21st, 2012, his funeral service was held on January the 3rd, 2013. He leaves a daughter, Pam Doyle, and a son Robert.
Royden Cairns
R
oy Cairns was born on February the 20th, 1927. He married a daughter of Eddie Beechey who also was a Life Member of the Southern Tasmanian Licensed Anglers’ Association and they lived for many years at Ranelagh. Roy joined the Huon Licensed Anglers’ Association in its early days and with Eddie they were heavily involved in the management and activities of the Club. Together they participated in many joint functions with the Geeveston Branch of the STLAA. Roy served as Treasurer of the Huon Branch for five years and was a Club
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Season 2012-2013 Photo Gallery
Amos Mapleston of Kingston Anglers
Jacob Britten – Penstock Lagoon
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Justin Myers with his first trout caught on the Fly at Arthurs Lake
Richard Skinner - Lake Pedder
Garry Williams - Tooms Lake
Angela Ames - Arthurs Lake
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Tony Robertson 3.5Kg Brown – Upper Derwent
Peter Wood & Bob Ward
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A July sea runner – Bridgewater Bridge
A big Derwent River fish
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Stuart Harwood - 9lb 8oz hen sea runner - Derwent River, New Norfolk
Matthew Paul & Thomas Murtagh
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Caleb Bonney – First Fish! Louise Bonney – Meadowbank
Bert Thunig – Lake Meadowbank
Edward Chugg – STLAA BBQ NNLAA Junior Angling Pond
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Clarence Members – Meadowbank
Clarence Members – Arthurs Lake
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Kingborough Anglers at Dee Lagoon
Neil Pinkard – Tasmanian Fly Casting Championship
Shayne Jones - Great Lake
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Andrew Simmons – Huon River
Bothwell Juniors - John Harback - Richard Monks - Tyler White - Trent Rogers - Brodie White - Michael Monks - Kaitlyn Housego - Lola Monks - Jamie Devine - Chloe Devine.
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Dylan Loh – Lake Pedder
Graeme McDowall - Lake Pedder
Vince Coyte – Arthurs Lake
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Michael and Barbara Morley present Brad Townsend with the inaugural Ken Morley Memorial Trophy for Most Consisten Junior
Holly Lowe & Toby Causby – NNLAA Junior Pond
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03 6214 9999 Fax: 03 6228 2353 6 Effingham St, Moonah 7009 www.maynesmarine.com.au sales@maynesmarine.com.au
What Next? Tasmanian Devil
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Trade enquiries: JM Gillies Agencies Pty Ltd Phone: (03) 8360 8191 Email: sales@jmgillies.com.au www.jmgillies.com.au