NSW Fishing Monthly November 2018 by Fishing Monthly

CICADAS ARE SINGING • SCORE FROM THE SHORE

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Features

Planning the ultimate boating trip Kayaking: abandon ship! Hotspot: Yakkin’ Urunga

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Cicadas for bass • Conquering the Karuah River • DIY lure making: Crabapillar • Bottom bashing Masterclass •

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November 2018, Vol. 24 No. 4

Contents 30

From the Editor’s Desk...

Website: www.fishingmonthly.com.au Managing Editor: Steve Morgan s.morgan@fishingmonthly.com.au Editorial Manager: Jacqui Thomas Sub-Editors: Bob Thornton Nicole Penfold Annie March Publishers: Steve Morgan Matthew Drinkall

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James Holt captured this hefty flathead on one of the recently launched Holt Production 3” Swim Prawns. An Andrew McKinstray image.

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of Queensland’s best dams. We had newbie teams from Queensland and NSW come last year and they had a blast. ABT, who runs the event (and also operates out of the Fishing Monthly offices) has a motto – ‘Who Shares Wins’. The teams on the BARRA Tour are always keen to share a beer and some techniques after the sessions. Fishing is from the late afternoons into the evenings, so you beat the heat of the midday North Queensland sun. If you don’t make it on tour (someone has to keep the country going), make sure you tune in to all of the coverage on www.abt. org.au. The BARRA Tour is a full catch, photograph and release event, so there’s a mountain of epic barramundi pic spam headed your way if you visit the site or go and like the Australian Bass Tournaments Facebook page.

of the year. The more people you introduce to fishing, the more that will raise their voice when some preservationist with a promotion wants to stop us doing what we do. After all, anglers are the true conservationists. We all want there to be more fish in the sea next time we go fishing. BARRA TOUR It’s happening soon and there’s still time to come and join the fun! The 2018 Zerek BARRA Tour is happening again this month – a week of full-on barra fishing in some

kilo and flathead over a couple of kilograms, the smiles really started. “It’d take us so long to learn what we picked up today by trial and error,” said one of the carers. And a lot of us take that for granted. People who don’t fish often don’t have the skills to take a kid for a fish and to introduce them to the recreation that we all love so much. That’s a real positive of Gone Fishing Day. But I think that we should take that attitude into the rest

GONE FISHING DAY Gone Fishing Day #3 is in the books (#gfd18). Over 100 organised events took place all over Australia – from Darwin to Tasmania and from Botany Bay to Western Australia, Aussies enjoyed our birthright – to recreationally fish for fun and food. One of the highlights of the day is the number of new anglers that we get to introduce to fishing. Some of our staff were at the NSWDPI event on Botany Bay. On the day, 10 boats took out 10 kids (and their guardians) who wouldn’t otherwise get the opportunity to be in a boat and catch a fish. The reactions for these people was amazing. For most of them, the experience of being able to ride in a serious fishing boat was eye-opening enough, but when the kids started dragging in bream over a

NOVEMBER 2018

AUST

BOATING AND KAYAK 87 REGULAR FEATURES Back to Basics 32 Black Magic Masterclass 54 Cooking 72 Dam Levels 56 Fun Page 80 Tides 86 Trade Directory 82 Tournament News 74 What’s New Boating 90 SPECIAL FEATURES Bass anglers be buzzin’ 8 Karuah River from the shore 44 DIY lure making: Crabapillar 70

PRO

BYRON COAST The Tweed 24 Ballina 26 Yamba 28 COFFS COAST Coffs Harbour 30 Nambucca 33 South West Rocks 34 MACQUARIE COAST The Hastings 36 Forster 37 Harrington-Taree 39 HUNTER COAST Port Stephens 40 Swansea 41 Hunter Coast 42 SYDNEY The Hawkesbury 12 Sydney Rock and Beach 14 Sydney North 16 Pittwater 18 Sydney Harbour 19 Sydney South 20 Botany Bay 22 Western Sydney 23 ILLAWARRA COAST Illawarra 46 Nowra 47 BATEMANS COAST Narooma 48 Merimbula 49 Batemans Bay 50 EDEN COAST Bermagui 52 Mallacoota 53 Tathra 53 FRESHWATER Robinvale 56 Mildura 56 Yarrawonga 57 Albury-Wodonga 57 Canberra 58 Wagga Wagga 60 Snowy Mountains 61 Hunter Valley 62 Lithgow-Oberon 63 Batlow 64 Orange 64 New England 65

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Bass anglers be buzzin’ BRISBANE

Bob Thornton

You’re slowly nosing up a freshwater creek on a hot, muggy afternoon, and you’re dripping with sweat from an arduous paddle. The trees that line the bank are gradually closing over to form a canopy over the deep, dark pools as you make your way further upstream.

your offering tied on, your first cast to a likely corner sees the water erupt as if someone’s thrown a brick in the water. It’s going to be a good evening. It’s scenarios like these that make this time of year so exciting for a bass angler, and anyone who regularly chases our bronze battlers will fantasize about sessions like these when they should be doing something else. For those yet to experience

in your search for cicadaeating bass! In Australia we have around 200 cicada species, and they range in colour from black/brown, all the way brighter colours like green, yellow and sometimes even orange! Most cicadas breed in the warmer months of the year, and the males can often be heard vibrating a drumlike plate on the side of their abdomens to call in a mate on warm afternoons. The bestknown of Australian cicadas is the green grocer, which, as the name suggests, is a leafy green colour. The green grocer is credited to be one of the loudest insects in the world, with some recorded calls reaching 150 decibels, and let me tell you, in a small overgrown creek it can create quite an eerie atmosphere – but it’s worth braving! When there’s trees and other cicada-harbouring vegetation lining the bank of any bass water, the bass will patiently wait for one of these clumsy morsels to fall into the water. When the males are ringing and drumming, it

The Duo Realis Shinmushi perfectly imitates the cicadas that can be heard ringing in the vegetation around our rivers, creeks and dams. means there’s females flying around trying to find their male counterparts, and quite often it’s these unfortunate souls that end up in the water. The buzzing of their wings on the water’s surface only helps to call bass in, before they meet their watery doom. Such is the cruelty of the food chain. LOCATION Bass are targetable on cicada imitations virtually throughout their range, and in a variety of different

environments, from ponds where they are stocked, to rivers and creeks, and even in some of Australia’s largest impoundments. The trick is to find a body of water that has bankside vegetation harbouring cicadas. The classic environment for this caper is a creek or river, but cicadaeating bass can be found in still waters as well, there just needs to be cicadas nearby! As far as accessing these locations goes, there’s

Larger rivers with plenty of trees and grass along the bank are great places to toss cicadas. It’s clear no anglers have been in this stretch of creek for a while. The ringing of cicadas builds to a deafening crescendo overhead, and you reach into your cluttered tackle collection at your feet for a lure to imitate one of these winged invertebrates. With

a topwater cicada bite, let me take you through the whole process. THE PREY I won’t bore you with entomology, mainly because it’s not my area of expertise! However, a basic understanding of cicadas and their habits will help you

Small creeks are an arena where an angler can use cicada lures all day, with nice, shaded pools like this one often holding many opportunistic little bass. If your casting arm isn’t twitching, you may want to get yourself checked…

plenty of options. In areas where the water is too small to conveniently manoeuvre a kayak, walking or wading may be your only option. Don’t be knocked back by this idea. Not owning a boat or kayak does limit what waterways you can fish, but it certainly doesn’t put a cap on the fun you can have! My best bass fishing memories have come from the some of the smallest creeks – insignificant trickles that you could almost step over. Any slightly deeper, darker pools with adequate shade form the vegetation above is worth throwing a cicada in, even if the retrieve is only a few metres long! In rivers and creeks where it is a little impractical to operate a trailer boat, but too wide in some areas to cast to the other bank from the shore, a kayak or canoe may be the best bet. In most dams, trailer boats are allowed, however some only allow for paddle-only access, and some even have a no vessel policy, but allow for shore-based angling. Whatever water you choose, make sure you pick a method of fishing that allows you access to all the likely areas, such as log pile,

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NOVEMBER 2018

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Tiemco Soft Shell Cicadas are fantastic for small creek work. The fish in these smaller waterways are often small, but who can complain when they’re smashing cicadas in tiny, clear pools?

overhanging shrubs and banks, and any shade cast by cicada-holding structure! TIMING The general rule for bassing with topwater presentations is that it’s viable during any month with an ‘r’ in it. This is a very loose rule, however it’s a good starting point when picking apart any creek, river, or dam that holds bass. It’s during the very warmest parts of the year that bass start to refine their search to the insects that become particularly active at this time

of year, and featuring heavily among them is the cicada. Their ringing can often be heard on hot afternoons as the sun starts to dip closer to the horizon, and any time the calls of male cicadas can be heard, it’s definitely worth tying on a topwater presentation. Generally speaking, chasing a cicada bite, as with most topwater fishing, should be planned around the lowlight periods of the day, and sometimes after dark. There are specific scenarios where cicadas can be used to

great effect during the day, however. Very occasionally, these mating rituals between cicadas can happen during the day. If drumming is audible at any time during the day, it pays to have a cicada tied on, even if you aren’t fishing it as your primary weapon. However, if you can see bass actively surfacing and chasing cicadas, it’s a no brainer. Small creeks are an arena where cicada bites can go right through the day. Small creeks are often narrow enough to have shade over them all day

After noticing the amount of small black cicadas scattering from the grass as he crashed through the bush, Andrew Thornton decided that a black Teeny Torpedo was the closest thing he had to match them.

from the canopy of trees above. With so much vegetation over the shade-cooled water, these creek-dwelling fish often feel comfortable to hunt cicadas all day, almost completely free of predation. Again, listening for sounds of cicadas will be your best clue as to what you should tie on! CHOOSING YOUR PRESENTATION There’s so many cicada imitations out there to choose from, it can be daunting to know where to start! Cicadaimitating lures range between around $7 and go beyond $30, and they all work! Let me take you through some basic types. Paddlers and walkers These are by far the most common type of cicada imitation. They often have their tow point at the rear, and their two arms that create the walking action usually fold away to make for easy storage, and also to look like wings. Some paddlers even have rattles in them to sound like the real thing! Some brands have created soft-bodied cicada paddlers. The beauty of these designs is that they land softly, like a cicada, and their softness means that if a fish misses the lure in an attempt to strike, they’ll often come back for a second look without suspecting anything artificial. Wakebaits A wakebait is a crankbait

With a hot cicada bite happening in this large pool, the author couldn’t help himself and threw a fly into the action. The bass were quick to respond. with a small, verticallyangled bib, which makes the lures wobble like a normal crankbait, but on the surface. Many smaller models have been designed with cicadalike patterns on them, making these lures another great tool when chasing that cicada bite! Flies Anyone who knows me knows that I always find a way to fit flyfishing into my articles, so this one will be no different. Surface flies can be an excellent way to imitate a cicada, as they land very softly, and the material flies are made of often resembles the exact texture of the real thing. If you’re a fluff chucker,

definitely bring the long wand next time your after the cicada eaters! Others Many other lure types have been designed with cicada patterns on them. Fizzers, poppers and hollowbodied soft plastics lures are all potential choices, just think about what they local cicadas look like, and match the lures to them! FISHING CICADAS Obviously, if you’re using a lure designed to imitate a cicada, you’ll want to impart an action that resembles a cicada! Imparting a good action on the surface can be aided by To page 10

NOVEMBER 2018

Fishing the Karuah River from the shore long so there is usually plenty of space for everyone. Just remember that this area can be snaggy, so use as little weight as possible. BRIDGE PYLONS The pylons can be accessed via a walking track from the above-mentioned rest area. Although it’s snaggy on the top of the high tide, you can fish the area

PORT STEPHENS

Gary Earl

The Karuah River in the west of the Port Stephens estuary is a long, winding waterway that meanders down from the foothills of the Barrington Tops. This river is a major player in the oyster industry as well as being a major drawcard for boaties, canoes and kayakers. The Karuah River is just over 100km long, and it has a variety of areas for everyone to enjoy. There are the freshwater pools in the upper reaches, which hold platypus and longfin eels, and further down in the midstream sections there are good numbers of bass in the brackish water. In the saltwater, which extends along the last 40km or so of river, there are large creeks running off to the north and the south, holding big bream, flathead, mulloway and large numbers of prawns and mud crabs. One of the best things about this river is that you can access the bank by car,

on. Bream love this area, and when one of these fish takes off in shallow water it’s a real buzz. A long rod is best here, as you have to lift the rod high to get them back to you above the oysterencrusted rocks. BOAT RAMP This area has been revamped, and the structure here fishes well for big

Both sides of the Karuah River Bridge fish very well, with most of the activity on the township side. This huge bridge has many holes around its huge pylons, and the mulloway hole (known as the deep hole) is on the second pylon on the northern side. Big mulloway come from here and it’s a place where NSW Fisheries get some of their big breeders for their tanks. The township is an easy five-minute drive from the Pacific Highway. This is where most of the fishing takes place, especially around the bridge. All the fishing is accessible to you in the car if you’re driving

the only set of traffic lights in town, and then you take the first left down a narrow street to the waterfront. Here you’ll find free BBQs, toilets, swings and play area for the kids. There’s also a saltwater pool with a wharf

bread, you can leave this in eyesight view and head out onto the wharf. You can either try for your own bait here by using a yellowtail jig for small fish, or you can jig for squid. The rise of the tide is the best time for small fish and squid to be around. You can opt to use frozen bait if you like, but it doesn’t usually work as well as live or very fresh bait. From this wharf there have been huge mulloway over 30kg taken at times, mostly at night on the tops of tides and changes that occur around an hour to three hours after dark, and also at times of floods. Bream and flathead can be taken through the warmer months, from October through until March. You can get squid under the lights at night all year round, and using the pool to get your live baits is easy, as everything is within a hop, skip and a jump of you. This place does get busy on moon nights with a lot of people hoping for a mulloway – this is a well-known mulloway spot – but the wharf is quite

Squid love the area between the swimming pool at the rest area and the bridge. You can cook them on the spot on one of the free BBQs, or use them whole for mulloway or cut up for bream. The best time for them is on the rising tide when the water is calm, and around the lights at night. with floating baits, such as cubes of mullet, fresh crabs, slivers of squid, prawns and worms. It’s a spot where mono line is best, as braid can be sliced to pieces. A leader of around 20-30lb can be used to stop cut-offs – some of them anyway – with no sinker, just a swivel to connect the line to the trace. The swivel provides a bit of weight for the cast, and all you need to do is cast out towards the first pylon in deeper water and hang

bream. There’s also the chance of encountering the odd mulloway hunting in the area. This is a nice quiet spot to spend an afternoon or evening, and you’ll usually have the place all to yourself. Bream feed in close here, and fishing a bait on a 1/0 or 2/0 suicide pattern is a great way to connect with the finicky biters. And don’t be surprised if a flathead ends up on the end of your line. The bottom

Flood times are a great time to get amongst the bream that travel from the upper reaches of the river. and enjoy a hour, a day or a weekend of fishing without the need for a boat. The township of Karuah itself has been bypassed by the Pacific Highway, so it’s a sleepy little village these days. There’s an RSL Club, caravan park, bottle shop and service station, but bear in mind that opening hours might not be as long as you’d find in the city, depending on the time of year. It’s better to bring everything you need for your visit. 44

NOVEMBER 2018

heading north, and you can catch some quality fish. It’s true that a boat is always handy to find those deep holes, but the river has many places where you can just pull up in a car and toss in a line. Here are a few places to try. REST AREA The first and the most fished place here is in the rest area park behind the RSL Club. To get there, you take the street to the south of the club to the right at

that horseshoes around it on to the river proper. There is ample parking and it’s only a 30m to the wharf to fish. This is how many anglers, myself included, like to fish this area. It’s a good idea to turn up on the rise of the tide, because as the pool fills a lot of small whitebait and mullet feed along the sandy weedy edge in the pool itself. If you place a properly marked poddy mullet trap in the sandy areas and bait it with

The old car punt ramp has deep water straight in front of it to a deep hole. It provides great fishing with heavy gear.

is muddy and that’s flathead territory. If you flick shallow diving lures right along the edge of the river down to the front of the old oyster sheds, you can catch both flathead and bream. NORTH SIDE OF THE BRIDGE The north side of the bridge is a great fishing spot if you don’t mind a bit of a walk. Under the bridge on the western side you’ll see what looks like an old boat ramp, but it’s actually where the old punt took cars back and forth across the river before the bridge was built. As you would expect, it’s deep straight out the front of this ramp, and the river falls over sharply to a hole of about 12m towards the second bridge pylon. This

A simple poddy mullet trap saves you money on bait purchases, and provides you with the freshest bait possible. The pool at Karuah fills with mullet at the top of tides. Big bream, mulloway and flathead have all came from this area. Large baits such as pilchards, mullet

CREATE YOUR ADVENTURES

gear to chase the seemingly endless hordes of smaller bream that sit here feeding. Fresh rock crabs are

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All the essentials you need for a night fishing on the wharf at Karuah: a radio for company, some fresh crabs, knifes, pliers and a lamp. spot is known as the local mulloway hole, and many boats sit here so watch your casting, especially at night.

slabs or whole squid can be used on heavy gear, and you can set the rods out while you use smaller

Over the years some huge mulloway have been taken around the Karauh Bridge area. Big Rob from the bottleshop got this fish after some rain. Judging by the fish’s colour, it’s been up in the river for a while in the brackish water.

everywhere under your feet, and they make great bait also. CARAVAN PARK PIER The caravan park pier is available only to visitors staying at the caravan park, and it is accessed from the same road as the first rest area. Turn right at the RSL Club, then follow this road straight ahead to the park. It has cabins, caravans and camping as well as a kiosk, pool and all amenities you would expect. Its long wharf goes out for ages into the depths of the Karuah River, and it fishes well at night for flathead as the bottom is predominately mud. Bream and tailor also turn up on the top of tides. TIME TO EXPLORE So on your next venture up the Pacific highway, try turning off to some of the small towns and have a fish in the rivers. Most of these areas are only 10 minutes out of the way, and the fishing around these sleepy little villages can be very good. The locals will give you a lot of information, as they figure you aren’t a threat to their fishing places as you’re just passing through. Some of these places fish so well that you’ll wonder why you hadn’t tried them before.

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NOVEMBER 2018

BLACK MAGIC

MASTER CLASS

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

Black Magic bottom bashing When it comes to putting food on the table, good old fashion bottom bouncing is still pretty hard to beat. It’s probably safe to say that drifting around with a paternoster rig has accounted for more snapper, flathead, nannygai, morwong, pearl perch and a host of other tasty species than any other method of fishing out there. While simple and extremely effective, it still

sinkers and fishing virtually underneath the boat in waters less the 15m is not too far short of a waste of time. The most effective depths for bottom bashing are from 40-200m as boat presence to bottom feeding fish is not usually an issue. Breaking it down further inside this window of ideal depths, each species will have its own ideal range and bottom territory it prefers. For instance, flathead will be found over sandy muddy

Work out which way the wind and current are going then move in the opposite direction until you’re just off the reef to give you maximum drift coverage back over it. Plot your start point on your GPS and as soon as you finish your drift go back and

sinker you should be using, which should be the lightest possible that easily finds the bottom. A sea anchor can also be a handy tool to slow your drift down, especially on days with a lot of current or wind. While bottom fishing

The Black Magic Snapper Snatcher rig can out-fish other rigs 5-1.

Snapper are going to love the new Black Magic Snapper Snacks. needs to be done in the right way and in the right areas to have success. Probably the biggest mistake anglers make with this style of fishing is trying to do it in waters that are way too shallow and more suited to anchoring up and casting lightly-weighted baits away from the boat. Fish, especially snapper, are very wary and will quickly spook in shallow water when there’s a boat drifting over the top of them. This is why drifting around with big

bottoms in 40-80m of water while fish like long-fin perch prefer the deeper reefs around 100-200m. Then you have snapper and morwong that cover the whole range up to 200m of water and other fish that cross over in between like pearl perch and nannygai. This is why bottom fishing when done right can produce a real mixed bag of species. Getting your drift right is a really important factor that will greatly increase your catch.

An armful of long-fin perch. 54

NOVEMBER 2018

Long-fin perch are the coral trout of the south. The new Black Magic snapper snacks work a treat for them. move a short distance away either side to give yourself a different line to go over new territory. If, however, you find a patch of fish on the first drift, be sure to mark it on your GPS and then try to do a re-run over it. Drift speed as well as water depth will dictate what size

gear can be either overhead or spin set up, the most important thing is braided line, as the zero stretch makes bite detection and setting of hooks instant. Braid also cuts through the water much better then mono, which is a big advantage when fishing in this manner especially in the deeper water or when you have current. I use Black Magic rainbow braid in 30 or 50lb as it’s colour coded every 10m. The best benefit of this is you can count your colours going down knowing exactly where in the water column you are and this can be particularly handy if you mark a patch of fish say in 70-100m of water. The paternoster rig is by far the best way to set up for bottom fishing and is just basically a 2m piece of mono leader with a loop on the bottom for a sinker and two short lengths of line off the sides about 60cm apart. While you can easily tie these yourself, Black Magic tackle has a range of pre-made flasher rigs that are hugely popular and lethal for this type of fishing. My first experience with these was fishing with

a paternoster rig I had tied next to a mate using a Black Magic Snapper Snatcher rig and was pulling in snapper at a rate of five to my one. Ever since that day I’ve used the premade flasher rigs and never looked back. Another reason they work so well is you can bait them up and when you do unknowingly lose your bait, or after a missed bite, the flasher rig alone will usually still get nailed, meaning you never waste your time in the water. The Black Magic range is always growing with a huge expanse of colours and sizes, now with 1/0 to 8/0 available in suicide

and circle hook patterns. Personally, I prefer the ones rigged on the KL circle hooks as the fish tend to hook themselves with a slow lift on the rod all that’s needed. I’ve also been testing a new product by Black Magic, which is going to be deadly. While they are the same concept these don’t use the flasher type material but rather thin small plastic and this gives more movement than traditional flasher rigs teasing shutdown fish into a bite. These went on the market in October, so keep your eyes peeled.

You are better off trying to target snapper in deeper waters.

ONE MILLION REASONS TO GO FISHING IN THE NT MILLION DOLLAR FI$H IS BACK FOR SEASON 4

Ever experienced the adventure of fishing in the Northern Territory? No? Well now you have a million reasons to go with the Million Dollar Fish now in its fourth year and promising to be even BIGGER than before! The Million Dollar Fish is all about experiencing the best of the Northern Territory in summer, barra fishing and, hopefully, catching yourself $1M. Running from the 1 October 2018 through to the 31 March 2019, you have the chance to catch one of the specially tagged barramundi that have been secretly released in locations across the spectacular Top End. These range from the tropical waters around Darwin and the Tiwi Islands, to the mammoth rivers and scenic billabongs of Kakadu and Katherine, and the Arnhem Land Coast which is transected by remote tropical tidal rivers. Since its inception, $310,000 has been won with the elusive $1M fish yet to be caught (which is good news for you). This year, the odds of catching the $1M barra have never been better with five chances to bag the million. But there’s a catch – only the first $1M tagged fish will count to win the big prize. If the $1M fish is not caught within

the competition timeframe, all five fish will remain fishing spots of Arnhem Land or the intertidal waters active in a bonus round from 1 April – 30 September of the Tiwi and Vernon Islands. Prime barra fishing 2019, so get up to the Top End now before that $1M spots include the wide Victoria and Daly rivers as finds itself on the end of someone else’s line! well as the network of winding waterways found in There will also be 100 fish worth a hearty the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park and $10,000 each and a special new category of 20 the Mary River wetlands. The Top End’s spectacular fish, worth $5,000 where the bounty is shared natural design means it offers a variety of worldbetween the angler and class fishing options, so one of three Territoryyou definitely won’t be Visit based charities. The short of fishing hot spots www.holidaysofaustralia.com. throughout its picturesque charities include the Cancer Council NT, landscapes. As you cast au/milliondollarfish Junior Indigenous your line out into the water and stay, play and fish Guide Program and the with the aim of reeling in Star Ball Darwin. one of the specially tagged in the Top End! But why the Top barra you may also find End? Well, this is an unrivalled fishing destination yourself on the other end of the line to a collection with huge tidal rivers, scenic inland billabongs and of different fish, including giant trevally, queenfish, mangrove-lined estuaries, as well as a scattering Spanish mackerel, black jewfish, golden snapper, of remote islands along hundreds of kilometres of coral trout, marlin and sailfish. unspoilt coastline. These pristine coastal waters are There are plenty of well-serviced tourist where some of the best tropical sport fishing action facilities to be accessed in the Top End along with in the world takes place. Those seeking something expert fishing guides, accommodation, and services different can venture through to the crowd-free such as fuel, food, repairs and supplies. Every

Interested?

angler’s dream is catered for to in the Top End, from hiring a boat or bringing your own, to taking a fully-guided fishing safari or simply throwing a line from a wharf or jetty. You could even stay at a remote fishing lodge for an exclusive Top End fishing experience. It is totally FREE to take part in the Million Dollar Fish competition, all you need to do is register at www.milliondollarfish.com.au before you head out to snap up one of the tagged barra. And to make this great fishing opportunity even better, Holidays of Australia and the World (the official travel partner of the Million Dollar Fish Season 4) have already done the hard work for you and organised your Top End fishing adventure. With a range of exclusive packages including accommodation, transfers and your fishing charter/s, you can spend your time focussing on snagging the winning fish! If you are after a more personalised fishing experience, there are also packages that include just your accommodation, as well as singular fishing charter packages suited for different lengths of time hunting the moneygiving fish.

NOW 5 CHANCES TO CATCH A MILLION DOLLAR BARRA*

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3 days fishing on the Finnis River and its surrounds. Stay on board the Beagle Gulf as you aim to catch the Million dollar fish. Includes: • 3 days fishing • 2 nights accommodation aboard the Beagle Gulf – 6.4m Barra boat with modern fishing platform. • All transfers from Darwin, meals, accommodation and of course your fishing gear and guide included. • Cap and stubby holder.

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Terms & Conditions: Fares are per person in AUD based on twin share. Inclusive of all discounts, taxes, fees & port expenses if applicable which are subject to change. Prices correct as at 10.10.18. Subject to availability. Airfares, hotels & transfers are additional unless otherwise stated. Cancellation charges apply. ^Discount offer available until 23 December 2018. *Only the first Million Dollar tagged Barramundi caught and verified by Tourism NT earns $1M. ** Terms & conditions apply. Visit milliondollarfish.com.au for more information. For full terms & conditions contact Holidays of Australia and the World. E&OE - HA0692.

NOVEMBER 2018

WHAT’S NEW FISHING SAMAKI BIG GRIP DIGITAL SCALE

NEW SUGAPEN COLOURS

The Samaki Big Grip Digital Scale has so many features that it’s hard to name them all. For starters, the ergonomic big grip handle is ideal for weighing big fish, with the scale catering up to 50kg or 100lb. It’s very comfortable to hold in the hand while you ready your catch for the weighing process. The casing is completely waterproof and holds a 100cm measuring tape for you to document your catch with ease. The Samaki Big Grip Digital Scale also has a backlit LED screen to give you readings in low light environments, plus a built-in thermometer in both Celsius and Fahrenheit. For more information and stockists just visit the Samaki website, or you can follow them on Instagram (@samakifishing) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/samakifishing). www.samaki.com.au

The Sugapen is one of the most popular surface lures on the market today, and it comes in sizes that cater for both estuary and offshore fishing. Now the range has recently been expanded to include sizes from 58mm through to 120mm, which gives the lure enormous versatility. Bassday has also expanded the colour range, and now two new variations have been added. The current Sugapen colours remain, with the two completely new Australia-only additions being a red tiger-striped clear and gold tiger-striped clear with a pink head. For more information on this and other new releases from Bassday, visit their website or look them up on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BassdayAus. www.bassday.com.au

SUFIX 131 G-CORE

HALCO MAX 220

The new Sufix 131 G-CORE is a 12-carrier braided line with an additional GORE Performance Fiber.These 13 fibres combine to guarantee a strong construction with no weak points, delivering reliability during casting, strikes and fighting action. The single strand of GORE Performance Fiber is surrounded by 12 precision braided HMPE fibres, and this results in a super-round line that is smoother, quieter and casts more accurately and further than other lines. Sufix 131’s non-hollow construction does not absorb water, thus preventing the line from getting heavier and reducing casting distance. Its solid structure also avoids conventional braid flattening, while the Gore centre fibre also protects the line from internal fraying. This new line is currently available in 4lb to 50lb in 150 yard neon chartreuse spools, and 10lb to 100lb in 300 yard neon chartreuse. Keep an eye out for it in leading tackle stores. www.rapala.com.au/sufix

DAIWA HRF SONIC SPEED 9.1R-TW

Dressed in red and ready to tear up the water, Daiwa releases its fastest HRF baitcaster ever, the HRF Sonic Speed 9.1R-TW. The super car of the HRF line-up features the designs, strength and performance that has made the HRF famous, with the revolutionary T-Wing System (TWS), Hyper Digigear, Super Metal body, Magforce Z, Magseal, Speed Shaft and corrosion resistant ball bearings (CRBB) combining to make this reel a must-have for saltwater baitcaster fans. Stopping power is at your fingertips with Daiwa’s UTD, giving you the muscle to stop fish in their tracks, while a 100mm swept handle and large EVA knobs offer added comfort and ultimate handle control. Loaded with features and with a spec sheet to impress, the new super-charged HRF Sonic Speed 9.1R-TW is a baitcaster that’s designed to amaze its users and is impossible to forget. www.daiwafishing.com.au 66

NOVEMBER 2018

PRODUCT GUIDE 2 1

If you love the sound of a reel screaming in agony as line pours off the spool, then Halco Tackle has developed the perfect lure for you in the Max 220. Halco has developed an ultra tough, sinking, bibless minnow that will get the attention of any XOS Wahoo and Mackerel, huge Tuna and other massive predators that lurk out in the deep blue. Capable of being trolled at very high speed (up to 20kt) like its smaller brothers, the lure features heavily reinforced side walls to resist punctures by the toothy brigade and able to withstand the incredible crushing pressure inflicted by the jaws of its intended victims. Halco rounded out the package by included their legendary ultra tough 7xx fish rings and Mustad 9/0 inline singles for great hook sets and the ultimate in holding potential. The lure is 220mm long, weighs 175g, and is designed for heavy trolling and jigging applications. If you are into fishing for the brutes of the ocean, look for the all new Max 220 at all good tackle outlets. www.halcotackle.com

BLACK MAGIC PINK 6 SHOCK LEADER Pink leader has been popular for some time, given that it is seen as less visible in certain water conditions. Although fluorocarbon options are common, Black Magic’s Pink Shock Leader is produced as a copolymer trace. This provides great value for money but still gives robust performance under stress. It retains the high performance in abrasion resistance and knot strength seen in Black Magic tough and supple trace. It’s coloured pink to provide less visibility, particularly when water conditions are a little murkier, and provides a more affordable option to anglers than fluorocarbon. Current breaking strains are 20lb, 40lb, 60lb, 80lb and 100lb. www.blackmagictackle.com

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PRODUCT GUIDE

WHAT’S NEW FISHING DAIWA ELIMINATOR

Stunning in looks and flawless in design and performance, the new Eliminator delivers anglers one of their newest and most durable and reliable light to offshore tackle reels for some time. Designed to excel and built to perform, the Eliminator integrates many of Daiwa’s most innovative designs and technologies including Real Four, Digigear and Air Rotor, and blends them with proven designs and features to create a reel that has few peers. It features Daiwa’s famous ABS spool design, with the reverse taper spool enabling greater line control and increased casting distance. Daiwa’s ATD gives the Eliminator fingertip drag control and unrelenting stopping power. The Eliminator will never see you under gunned in the heat of battle. Dark in looks yet bright and bold in design and performance, the new Eliminator spin reel opens the door to a new age in light and offshore tackle durability and reliability. www.daiwafishing.com.au

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WILSON PLATINUM FISHING CHAIR

The new Wilson Platinum Fishing Chair is rated to 150kg and built with a wider base to ensure anyone can comfortably sit in it. This folding chair also has some clever additions for anglers. For starters there is a rod holder that can be easily attached to the left hand side of the chair on the legs, setting your rod at an easy angle. If you plan on getting up from your chair, the designers have included a peg for the leg to ensure the chair is secured to the ground, and a massive strike won’t tip the chair over. There is also a drink holder and a lined cooler bag in the arms, and a small bottle opener attached to the arm on a lanyard. On the right arm there is also a mobile phone holder pouch, to ensure your phone doesn’t get damaged when the action heats up. The comfy and strong Platinum Fishing Chair is available now in your choice of blue or purple. www.wilsonfishing.com

MAPSO SAJA #3

Mapso lures in recent years have become the go-to lures for the serious trout angler. Mapso is the Lukris house brand, which is known for their innovative ability and superior quality, and they offer 100% perfect spinning action every time. Lukris have been responsible for producing some of the world’s best known and most trusted brands. Now Lukris have released a couple of new colours in their popular Saja range of spinners in all four sizes. They have also released a larger Size 3 model that is 60mm long, weighs 7g and comes in twin packs. These will certainly be great for anglers wanting a bigger spinner for lake shore fishing, and anglers wanting a heavier lure for further casting distance. The new Size 3 size will also be suitable for a number of other species, including yellowbelly,

silver perch and bass. It is available in all 14 colours. To find out more visit the Juro Oz Pro Tackle website, or for the latest news and catch photos check them out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JuroOzProTackle. www.jurofishing.com

MARIA RERISE

Maria have an extensive range of floating and sinking stickbaits, but the new Rerise adds another dimension to the line-up. This new concept lure measures 130mm long, weighs 70g and can search deep areas normal minnows can’t reach. It sinks at one second per metre, allowing the angler to fish any level of the water column with the appeal of a tuned Japanese stickbait. The heavy weight enables lets you drop the lure to the bottom, and the swimming action imitates a wound baitfish, resulting in explosive strikes. Fitted with Owner ST-66 trebles and a strong wire through construction, the Rerise is ready to battle any pelagic you can target. It is available now in eight colours. www.ejtodd.com.au

HOBIE PET PFD

Why leave your pet at home while you enjoy a day on the water? You can now take your fur friend with you safely and in Hobie style, with the Hobie Pet PFD. Features include added flotation as a swim assist, grab handles, adjustable fit, leash attachment, side pockets, grab handles and soft foam undercarriage support. Happy days for furry friends! The Hobie Pet PFD is available in the following sizing: XS (12lb, 8’-12’ collar, 13’17’ body girth); S (12lb-24lb, 10’-14’ collar, 15’-21’ body girth); M (24lb-60lb, 13’-19’ collar, 18’-30’ body girth); L (60lb-90lb, 18’26’ collar, 24’-36’ body girth); XL (90lb-120lb, 22’-30’ collar, 30’-42’ body girth). Price: SRP $59 www.hobie.com

SHIMANO CATANA FD

The Catana has been revamped for 2018 and is perfect for anglers who are looking for a high quality reel at a reasonable cost. There are four reels in the re-launched Catana range, from 1000-4000 size, with the C2500, 3000, and 4000 HG having high retrieve ratios from 5.8-6.2:1 thanks to the presence of zinc DC gears. Perfect for freshwater, estuary and light offshore applications, the larger reels are capable of producing up to 8.5kg of drag power, so for relatively small reels this new range really packs a punch! The AR-C spool lip design increases casting distance, controls the development of wind knots, and creates less slap on the stripping guide. What more could you want from a spinning reel? They come with two SUS ball bearings, plus one roller bearing, so it’s smooth sailing all the way with these value packed reels. www.shimanofish.com.au

Please email contributions to: nicole@fishingmonthly.com.au NOVEMBER 2018

WHAT’S NEW FISHING ZEREK TANGO SHAD 13 1M DIVER The Zerek 50mm Tango Shad 1m diver comes in floating only, and is ideal for all manner of estuary and freshwater fishing situations. There are 10 colours in the range, covering both natural and attractor patterns, including UV colours for maximum attraction. The 50mm Floating Tango Shad 1m diver has been an amazing success story in testing on a host of estuary and freshwater species. From flathead to bream and trout to redfin, this floating lure tested incredibly with some amazing captures. Attractor colours for dirty water, natural colours for clear water and UV colours to take advantage of the latest theories on fish’s vision see these lures cover every conceivable situation in terms of water conditions. To see the full range of colours, as well as other models in the Tango Shad series, visit the Wilson Fishing website. www.wilsonfishing.com

OKUMA KOMODO SS

The Okuma Komodo SS features stainless steel main gear, pinion gear and drive shafts, along with a multi-disc, high output Carbonite drag system, giving it a level of power and durability that is the best in its class. Drag output levels include 11kg maximum drag on the 350 size and 14kg maximum drag on the larger 450 size. The high quality build includes ALC: rigid diecast frame and sideplates with CRC (Corrosion-Resistant Coating process) and A6061-T6 machined aluminium anodized spool. A micro-click drag star allows precise drag settings, and Japanese ABEC-5 spool bearings and 6-pin Velocity Control casting system allow long, smooth casts. The 350 size is fitted with 6HPB+1RB SS bearings, while the 450 size boasts 7HPB+1RB. Other features include a synchronized levelwind, optimized for braid; zirconium line guide inserts for use with braid; dual antireverse and an on/off clicker. This big fish stopper is available in a 350 and 450 size in both a left and right hand model and a 350 size in a Power Handle version. A Power Handle is also available separately for the 450 size. Price: SRP $379-$399 www.okuma.com.au

OKUMA CERROS SPIN PODS

Designed in Australia to suit Australian species and techniques, the Cerros family of spin rods from Okuma are built on quality 30T Toray carbon blanks and are finished with SeaGuide Hero Hi-Grade 316 stainless steel, anti-tangle guides and Fuji reel seats. There are five 7’ models in the range, L, ML, M, H and XH, covering everything from bream and bass to snapper, barra and pelagic species. Cerros rods feature a stylish design, classic two-tone anodized metal components and crisp actions, and they are also excellent value for money. This new rod range is perfect for those anglers wanting to get into lure fishing, and are also deadly in the hands of experienced lure fishers. A selection of Cerros baitcast models are also available. For more information on the Cerros range and on other new releases, visit the Okuma website or like them on Facebook 68

NOVEMBER 2018

PRODUCT GUIDE

at www.facebook.com/okuma.australia. Price: SRP $119.90 www.okuma.com.au

WILDFISH SMOKER DUST

13 16

The Wildfish Smoker dust and chips are perfect for hot smoking fish, poultry and other meats. They are the perfect addition to the Wildfish range of smokers. There are five flavours available: apple, hickory, peach, sheoak and wine. The wine flavour comes in a 200g bag of wood chips. All the other flavours are sawdust, and are available in 500g bags. The Wildfish Smoker cooker is constructed from long life stainless steel. It contains two smoking racks, a stainless steel drip tray and is supported on an elevated stand which houses two spirit burners for even cooking. Wildfish products are distributed by JM Gillies. For more information on the smokers and other products in the Wildfish range, visit the JM Gillies website. You can also find them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/jm.gillies) and Instagram (@jm.gillies) www.jmgillies.com.au

GULP TWIN TAIL

15 17

New for 2018 is the Berkley Gulp Twin Tail. The Twin Tail has more moves than a bowl of worms! A minnow profile with a set of twin tails that flutter and swim at any speed. Based on the crazy legs jerkshad, the designers have downsized this deadly concept to bite-sized 3” and 4” models. With 400X more scent dispersion that a plastic bait the Twin Tail is packed with Gulp scent to trigger more strikes. These new soft baits are currently available in either colours, including both natural and hivis variations, so you can match the hatch and the conditions. For more information, or to find your nearest stockiest, head over to the Berkley Australia website. For all the latest news, catch photos, videos, tips and tricks, check them out on Facebook at www.facebook. com/BerkleyFishingANZ. berkley-fishing.com.au

STRIKE PRO GUPPIE 18 NEW COLOURS Strike Pro has released two new colours in its popular Guppie swimbait lures and spare tails. There are three crltails and one Paddletail in five colours to match the Guppie lures. The TrueGlide Guppie has been the gold standard for handmade wood glide baits throughout Europe and the USA The paint schemes incorporate using paint or glitter on the inside shell of the bait, in addition to painting the outside shell, layering paint between topcoats for a 3-D effect. It also prolongs the colour of the bait fish after fish. Strike Pro has even replicated the 3-D eyes that TrueGlide are famous for. The Guppies body profile allows the lure to produce an amazing body roll and it slides from side to side in outstanding fashion. The Guppie also features an innovative cork screw at the tail of the bait allowing the angler to fish with either a curtail or paddletail soft plastic tail, creating the ultimate swim bait! The Guppie is a very effective lure that is deadly on barramundi, mulloway, murray cod and pelagic species. www.jurofishing.com

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WHAT’S NEW FISHING

Field-testing Daiwa J-Braid Grand: it’s a J-Braid Grand life! Last year I was lucky enough to be sent a Daiwa Tatula baitcasting rod and reel combo to have a play with, and inside the box was a spool of the original J-Braid x4 line to fill it with. For a 4-ply braid which was certainly at the lower end of retail pricing in tackle stores, I was very impressed. Some 18 months later I’m still using that same spool of line. I have had some torrid battles with threadfin salmon that have put me in and around any number of artificial and natural structures, but the braid has held up beautifully. With that in mind, you can understand my excitement in June this year when we opened an AusPost express bag with four

TESTED

I normally leave the spooling up to the tackle store I buy line from, because they’ve usually got a machine and it’s faster, packs it on tighter and leaves me more time to spend far too much on lures. However, spooling the two reels myself actually gave me a really nice feel of the lines before I’d even wet them. The first thing I noticed from both weight classes was that the new J-Braid Grand is a much smoother profile than both the original 4-ply and 8-ply versions, and also very soft and supple. It had little to no memory coming off the spool, and didn’t lose colour as it ran through my fingers that were keeping tension as it filled the reels. If you’ve ever done this job you’ll know you can end up looking

Squid have great eyes but the 10lb J-Thread Fluorocarbon did the trick and was near impossible for this tiger to see.

Not bad for your first thready. The 30lb J-Braid Grand and J-Thread Leader combo held up well in some very tight country. spools of the new Japanese made Daiwa J-Braid Grand in multi-colour, and an equal amount of J-Thread fluorocarbon leader. I took two spools of braid – 10lb and 30lb – and two spools of leader to match, and headed home to fill some reels and plan my testing missions. The 30lb went on an old Luvias DA Custom 3000 (yes, the one with the tribal tattoos on the side), and the 10lb was wound onto my Emeraldas MX 2508. The heavier set-up would come with me when chasing threadfin on the Brisbane River, and the lighter pairing would be on hand for any estuary fishing that was on the cards.

like you’ve had a fight with a packet of Sharpies. Once both reels were full to capacity it was time to tie a couple of FG knots and a rod length or so of the J-Thread fluorocarbon leader. The bride and I were lucky enough to have a babysitter that night, so we went out for a kid-free dinner and then hit the river for some thready action. The braid cast both light and heavy lures very well, with no signs of wind knots or colour fading, and it wasn’t long before the first of five nice fish were hooked and trying their best to rub through the J-Braid and J-Thread on some pylons.

The line held up incredibly well on both wooden and metal structures. The fluorocarbon was scuffed and tattered by the end of the night, but didn’t even look like breaking or rubbing through. I am a notoriously terrible knot tier, but I managed to re-tie new leaders with ease, even with a heavier line class than I normally use. With the heavier combo proving itself so well, I was pretty pumped to get out and try the 10lb versions as soon as possible. Over the last few months they’ve been put to the test on bream, bass and squid. With this set-up the lures I’ve used and the situations I’ve used them has been a lot more varied than with the 30lb combo so while the strength and durability has certainly still been tested, it’s more about performance when casting lures for long periods of time in both fresh and saltwater arenas with topwater, diving and sinking hardbodied lures, squid jigs and soft plastics. In every situation it has performed like a braid and leader combo that you’d expect to pay twice as much for. Cast after cast it peeled off the reel with no memory, no wind knots and once I was connected to a fish or squid, performed very well under stress.

J-Braid Grand is available in both multicolour and island blue in weights from 6lb through to 80lb in 150 yard and 300yd spools with RRP’s starting from only $39.99. J-Thread fluorocarbon leader comes in spools of 100m for the 4lb to 20lb classes and 50m spools for 30lb to 80lb and RRPs from $22.99. If you’re after a high quality Japanese designed and manufactured braided line or fluorocarbon leader without breaking the bank, I would highly recommend asking your local tackle store for J-Braid Grand and J-Thread. - Rupe

Another victim of the J-Thread leader. Even on a bright sunny day the line was undetectable.

Having used the old J-Braid for a long time (and enjoyed it) meant it was easy for the author to see just how superior this new version is.

NOVEMBER 2018

Cooking

Crispy skin salmon with Asian slaw and salsa SYDNEY

Andrew Humphries

METHOD For the Asian salad finely slice and prepare the ingredients. I use a mandolin

to slice the cabbage, cucumber, onion, and to julienne the carrot I also use the mandolin but with a julienne blade attachment. If you don’t have mandolin or v-slicer it is possible to cut everything with a knife. With the herbs pick

the mint and tear into smaller pieces if they are large leaves. Toss all ingredients in a bowl and set aside. If you like, you can also slice the left over mango and toss it through the salad as well. The nuoc cham dressing

is for the salad and is quite a simple and quick dressing to make. Mix all ingredients in a jug and set aside to dress the salad later. For the mango salsa, mix all ingredients in a bowl and season, then set aside to serve

with the salmon. To cook the salmon heat pan or barbeque plate to medium heat. Salt the skin side of the fish and place in lightly oiled pan and cook for 3-4 mins, checking to see if the heat needs to be adjusted.

Once you have a nice golden colour and crispy skins, turn the fillets and reduce heat and cook for another 4mins, or until it is cooked to your liking. Dress salad and serve on a plate with the salmon and salsa to finish off.

INGREDIENTS 4x150g salmon fillets pin boned skin on Asian slaw- ¼ red cabbage finely sliced ¼ green cabbage finely sliced ½ red capsicum finely sliced 1 carrot julienned ½ red onion finely sliced 1 Lebanese cucumber finely sliced ¾ punnets cherry tomatoes quartered 3/4 bunch coriander washed and roughly cut into 1.5cm lengths ½ bunch mint Nuoc cham dressing ingredients ¼ cup water ¼ cup fish sauce 2tblspoon lime juice 2tblspoon sugar 2tblspoons rice wine vinegar 1 chilli finely diced 1 coriander root finely chopped

6 72

Mango salsa ingredients ½ mango diced ¼ red onion finely diced ½ red chilli finely diced 5 stems coriander finely chopped roots and leaves ½ lime juiced salt to taste

The nuoc cham dressing made up ready to dress the salad.

Portioned salmon fillets ready to be seasoned and cooked.

NOVEMBER 2018

The prepared salad ingredients from left around the plate: fresh picked mint, cherry tomatoes, coriander, carrot, onion, red cabbage, green cabbage, cucumber and capsicum in the centre. On the side is the mandolin used to finely slice them.

Mango salsa components from left to right: fresh lime for juicing, onion diced, chilli diced, coriander and the mango diced.

Nice golden crispy skin salmon fillets. At this stage I reduce the heat to allow the salmon to cook through without burning the flesh side.

All the salad ingredients tossed together in the mixing bowl.

Seasoned and mixed delicious mango salsa.

The tasty finished product. I love the crisp crunchy salad with the salmon.

MAJOR PRIZES

FIND THE

LOGO COMPETITION

1st PLACE

1000

There are 15 logos hidden throughout the pages of Fishing Monthly.

Find the logo and page number, fill in the entry form and go in the draw to win!

RRP worth of Frogley’s Offshore products

2nd PLACE

The first 40 correct entries drawn at the end of each month will win a packet of the world’s finest hooks from

500

All entries will go into the major prize draw (APRIL 30 , 2019).

RRP worth of Frogley’s Offshore products

www.frogleysoffshore.com.au

3rd PLACE

200

RRP worth of Frogley’s Offshore products

PAGE NO: 1

NAME ............................................................................................................

MAIL ENTRIES TO: NSWFM Find the Gamakatsu Logo Competition, PO BOX 3172, Loganholme QLD 4129 Entries must be received by 30TH NOVEMBER 2018 Original entries only. No photocopies.

SUBURB .................................................................P/CODE ........................... PHONE .......................................................................................................... EMAIL ............................................................................................................

NSWFM NOVEMBER 2018

ADDRESS .......................................................................................................

Nelson slows down claim victory

STORM

Improving his 2017 BASS Pro event result on this massive North Coast arena by a place, NSW’s Mike Nelson fished a black jig in deeper water to emphatically claim victory in the Bassman Spinnerbaits round of the Rapala BASS Pro Series. With his weights improving every session, he was always going to be hard to beat, with top-ranked Basser and river rat Kris Hikson the only angler to get within 4kg of Nelson’s weight. Nelson posted a weight of 3.26kg for session one, 4.47kg for session two, and 4.56kg for session three. Fishing a beetle-spin rigged Z-Man Slim Swimz in the first session, Nelson targeted shallow, active fish on structure, but saw bigger fish deeper that weren’t receptive to the reaction presentation. That’s when he stepped it up a gear and fished a black Pro’s Factory Motion jig in black (with a Gulp Crabby trailer) deep and slow to extract a string of better quality fish. “Those deeper fish were definitely not rising to grab a reaction bait, so I did what I had to do to get them in the boat,” Nelson said. And from that point, he never looked back.

Mike Nelson secured his maiden ABT BASS Pro win fishing jigs slowly in deeper structure.

Pros Factory Motion Jig

15-25‘

Pitch jig close to submerged structure Short hop to keep on the bottom

Allow to jig to sit on bottom for up to 30 seconds – gently shake the rod tip to make skirt ‘wae’

Visit www.abt.org.au for entry forms. For general enquiries phone ABT on (07) 3387 0888. 74

NOVEMBER 2018

Scan the QR code to see how Mike Nelson works jigs in deep water.

Scan the QR code to see Jason martin’s winning interview.

Targeting bass from 15-25ft deep in both the South Passage and in the Coldstream River, Nelson emphasised that the speed he needed to fish these baits was slow – dead slow. “You’d sink down the lure and literally just shake the line. Sometimes it’d take the fish up to 30 seconds to eat it after you felt the first tap. It really was a game of patience,” Nelson said. He fished the jig on a 13 Fishing OMEN baitcast

rod paired with a 13 Fishing Inception reel that was spooled with 10lb Sunline Braid and 12lb Gamma leader. “That leader is amazing in tight structure. It really cops a beating,” Mike continued, “it helped me land plenty of fish in nasty situations.” Indeed, you can watch the video of Nelson’s final session highlights on the QR Code supplied hereby. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to slow-fish a jig, then Mike’s technique is a must-watch.

Hickson runs and guns into second place

Almost always lurking somewhere in the top of the ladder is Kris Hickson, and he kept true to form this time round with a second place finish.

As is typical for the Taree BREAM and BASS angler, when asked about his tournament, it was a case of a lot of running and gunning and of using half the lures in his box. Kris Hickson is a fast, junk fishing extraordinaire, and he seems to have a sixth sense about where to stop and what to throw. He couldn’t match Mike Nelson’s deep structure jig fishing ability – even with a kicker fish of over 1.5kg in the first session. Kris managed bags of 3.63kg in session one, 3.33kg in session two, and 3.52kg in session three. When asked to refine the boatload of tackle to a couple of techniques, Hickson settled on ZMan Finesse FrogZ, 2.5” Slim SwimZ by the same manufacturer, and a Duel Moe-B hard bait.

“Early each morning, I’d fish those 2.5” ZMan FrogZ on a 2/0 ChinlockZ hook and get some topwater action. There’s nothing like a topwater bite first thing in the morning and it added a few fish to the well,” Hickson said. “I fished the stretch between Ulmarra and Maclean each day and I reckon I hit every single boat, wharf and good looking bit of bank there,” Kris continued. Kris’ kicker fish in session one (the second biggest of the event at 1.54kg) ate a Duel Moe-B fished in a drain. He also pulled a couple of fish off the ferry cables

BASS PR O at Lawrence with a Samaki forktailed Vibelicious in whitebait colour. In one of the sessions, he filled his bag from a grassy bank with the bloodworm coloured Slim SwimZ. His favourite tool for the tournament was a prototype TD Zero rod (6’9”, 2-5kg) matched with a 2500 sized LT Daiwa, 8lb J-Braid Grand and 8lb J-Thread leader. Hickson did his reputation as an adaptable Basser no damage at all on the weekend, maintaining his healthy lead of the Bass Cat BASS Pro Rankings. He’s ranked number one in the country!

Martin tops non-boater field Jason Martin is another Manning River river rat who excels in casting plastics at Australian bass. Paired with Kris Hickson on the first day, there was every chance that the pair would do some damage. The prediction came true-Jason managed some impressive limits, scoring bags of 3.63kg in session one, 3.33kg for session two, and 1.79kg for session three. Martin’s gear was a Daiwa TD Sol rod teamed with a Daiwa Exceler reel spooled with 8lb Daiwa J-Braid and 8lb fluorocarbon leader. He fished an assortment of plastics on 1/8oz jigheads. Emphasising Martin’s river prowess is the fact that he’s won both of the river rounds in 2018 at the back of the boat. He took out the first BASS Pro event of the season on the Hawkesbury River earlier in the season. Martin’s most tense moment for the event? Well, he’s pretty laid back,

GARMIN BIG BASS

Jason Martin was stoked to grab another river round win. so we think nothing fazes him, but only having a single bass in the livewell at 2pm in Session 2 would have raised the heart rate a little.

Fast forward 20 minutes and it proved that there was little to worry about, with the bag filled by 2:20pm on a 200m stretch of

grassy bank. You can watch Martin’s Winner’s Interview by scanning the QR code hereby.

BOATER RESULTS Place Angler 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Fish

Weight (kg)

Prize

Mike Nelson 12/12 12.29kg $2,500 Kristoffer Hickson 12/12 10.52kg $1,350 Craig Simmons 10/12 8.24kg $900 + $250 Evinrude Bonus Mark Lennox 11/12 7.73kg 7.73kg $800 Troy Hardaker 9/12 7.66kg $700 Joseph Urquhart 11/12 7.52kg $600 Adrian Melchior 11/12 7.44kg Rick Gough 11/12 7.21kg Keeghan Painter 9/12 6.80kg Terry Allwood 9/12 6.67kg For full result listings, see www.abt.org.au

Local Anthony Duff took out the $500 Garmin Big Bass, with his 1.67kg brute. It ate a ZipBait Skinny Pop in Aussie Prawn colour that he fished on a Pagotto custom rod made from a St Croix blank, matched to a Daiwa 2500 Certate Custom reel, 6lb Sunline Super PE and Sunline 10lb mono leader.

WINNING TACKLE Rod: Duffrods 3-5kg rod Reel: Daiwa Battler 2500 reel Line: Unitika 8lb braid Leader: FC Rock 8lb leader Lure: Yamba Pro Prawn blade

NON-BOATER RESULTS Place Angler 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Fish

Weight (kg)

Prize

Jason Martin 10/12 8.75kg Prize Pack Peter Morgan 10/12 8.28kg Prize Pack Tom Deer 11/12 8.10kg Prize Pack Andrew Lollback 8/10 7.73kg Prize Pack Damien Krantz 11/12 7.50kg Prize Pack Matthew Cameron 11/12 7.24kg Prize Pack Shane Matthews 11/12 7.10kg Prize Pack Brendan Pieschel 9/12 6.43kg Prize Pack Aaran Kiloh 8/12 6.41kg Prize Pack Trent Blake 8/12 5.90kg Prize Pack For full result listings, see www.abt.org.au NOVEMBER 2018

Falkenhagen forks out A-game

STORM

Shaun Falkenhagen has taken out the 2018 Rapala Bass Pro Grand Final on Lake Somerset with an overall bag of 12/12 at 14.97kg, walking away with a cheque for $10,000. Shaun struggled in the first session early on, spending an hour or so sounding around looking for a good concentration of fish. Once he found the fish he caught his limit quite quickly and weighed them in as soon as the weigh-in window opened. He weighed in a combined limit with Jim Hickson of 4.46kg, which had them sitting in second place to Matt Johnson and Nick price with a bag limit of 7.08kg. Session two was very kind to Shaun and Jim, and saw them catching their limit of four fish for the session, with a total weight of 6.16kg, bumping them into first place for the second session. The third session on the Sunday was Shaun’s most productive day catching, where he caught seven fish. The weight was down from day one’s bags, however Shaun and his day two

Shaun Falkenhagen had his family there to support him.

Shaun Falkenhagen was all smiles with his Grand Final victory at Lake Somerset.

non-boater Mitchell Rose achieved a limit of 4.35kg, which was enough to secure victory in the 2018 Rapala Bass Pro Grand Final. Shaun was fishing a bay with a depth of 40-50ft. His technique would vary with the fishes’ mood. If they were sitting on the bottom he would sink his lure to the bottom and give it a few twitches and it would get eaten fairly quickly. But if the fish were suspended he would have to count his lure down to roughly where he could see them sitting on his depth sounder. With the suspended fish he would slow roll his lure through the school, often getting a few taps. Once he got these taps he would speed his retrieve up, triggering the fish to eat his lure properly. His go-to lure was a Slider Grub in the John Deer colour with a 5/8oz jighead fished on a 702 Edge Rod with a Daiwa Certate reel.

BOATER RESULTS Place Angler

Visit www.abt.org.au for entry forms. For general enquiries phone ABT on (07) 3387 0888. 76

NOVEMBER 2018

Scan the QR code to see the day 1 highlights.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Fish

Weight (kg)

Prize

Shaun Falkenhagen 12/12 14.97kg $10,000 Matt Johnson 9/12 12.74kg Miller Rod Stephen Kanowski 9/12 12.04kg Miller Rod + $1,100 (Big Bass) Kristoffer Hickson 9/12 9.87kg Prize Pack Wally Fahey 6/12 9.67kg Prize Pack Graham Ford 7/12 7.89kg Jordan Stoddart 12/12 7.39kg Tim Morgan 7/12 7.38kg Kris Banks 8/12 6.27kg Joseph Urquhart 8/12 6.27kg For full result listings, see www.abt.org.au

Johnson takes second Howe good Matt Johnson came in second with 9/12 fish for 12.74kg. Matt weighed the biggest bag for the tournament in session one with four bass tipping the scales at 7.08kg. He and his non-boater left for the second session very chuffed with themselves. Unfortunately, that was the best bag Matt could put together for the tournament. The second session for Matt was a grind, with him and his non-boater only bringing two bass to the scales for 2.3kg. Day two was quite tough as well, only yielding three bass, however it was enough to secure second place. Matt was fishing the same areas as Shaun on flats with depths varying between 40-50 feet. The fish were there for Matt, however he struggled to convert many of the bites.

Matt Johnson fished the same areas as Falkenhagen and came in second place.

John Deere Slider

Jighead retrieve

Spoon retrieve Snap

40-50 feet

Snap

Warren Howe had something of a Stephen Bradbury tournament experience. He got his Grand Final entry via count back from declined non-boater entries and ended up taking out the 2018 Rapala Bass Pro Grand Final in the Non-Boater division, bringing in 10/12 fish for at total bag of 13.99kg. He was secure in his victory with second place getter Jim Hickson bagging 8/12 fish for 10.62kg. Warren fished day one with Kris Hickson and day two with Steve Kanowski. His first session only saw him weighing two legal bass. His second second and third session were a lot better, as he was able to secure a limit in each. Warren was changing between throwing a Slider on a 5/8oz jighead and a G2 Gang Banger Spoon. Throwing them on a Daiwa Steez 702 Thunderstorm rod and a Daiwa 2508 Steez spin reel, he was able to fish the Sliders with ease. First and second places were both awarded fantastic prize packs. Howe and Hickson took home an awesome Rapala product prize pack each. There is enough tackle in each pack to see them through the entire 2019 BASS Pro season, valued at approximately $4,000!

Killer cracks the Big Bass Stephen ‘Killer’ Kanowski took out Big BASS, bringing in a fish in session two that weighed in at 2.74kg. Steve located an active school of fish in the second session, and catching a nice fish straight away had him quite confident in the flat he was fishing. Only a couple of casts later he hooked the fish and soon realised it was much bigger than he first expected. This fish was the biggest bass for that session and held that position for the rest of the tournament, securing the big bass prize

BASS PR O GF

Warren Howe took out first place for the Non-Boaters.

www.fishin.com.au TOURNAMENT TACKLE STORE

ZX BLADES ZMAN GRUBZ CRANKA CRABS

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of $1100. This healthy 2.74kg fish was caught slow rolling a plum chartreuse Slider with a gold 5/8oz Smak jighead. JUNIORS The Grand Final Juniors (under 18-yearolds) got a special mention at the presentation, with Mitchell Rose and Angus Meyndershagen both finishing in the top ten non-boaters. In addition to their non-boater prize packs the pair each took home a special Junior Anglers Prize – a big thanks to Rapala and Manning River Marine for looking after our tournament’s junior anglers.

NON-BOATER RESULTS Place Angler 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Fish

Weight (kg)

Prize

Warren Howe 10/12 13.99kg Prize Pack James Hickson 8/12 10.62kg Prize Pack Mark Parriott 12/12 9.52kg Tonic Sunglasses + Prize Pack Nick Price 6/12 9.38kg Hobie Sunglasses + Prize Pack Angus Meyndershagen 8/12 9.10kg Hobie Sunglasses + Prize Pack Raffi Demirjian 5/12 7.72kg Samaki Rod + Prize Pack John Francis 6/12 7.06kg Prize Pack Dylan Byron 9/12 7.03kg Prize Pack James Browning 8/12 6.76kg Prize Pack Mitchell Rose 6/12 5.28kg Prize Pack For full result listings, see www.abt.org.au

Scan the QR code to see the day 2 highlights.

NOVEMBER 2018

Trades, Services, Charter COFFS COAST

HOLIDAY RENTAL MACLEAY VALLEY COAST

CRESCENT HEAD HOLIDAY RENTALS

A U S T R A L I A

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Margay 2017

For all your accommodation needs, house, units & townhouses for every budget. Contact the friendly team at Crescent Head Real Estate for your free holiday brochure.

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CHARTER BOATS

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• • • •

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KAYAK DEALERS The Life Aquatic - Mona Vale – (02) 9979 1590 Australian Bass Angler - Penrith – (02) 4721 0455 Hunts Marine - Yallah – (02) 4284 0444 Bunyips Great Outdoors - Lismore – (02) 6622 1137 Maclean Outdoors - MacLean – (02) 6645 1120 Wetspot Watersports -Fyshwick – (02) 6239 1323 Graham Barclay Marine – Forster – (02) 6554 5866 Hunter Water Sports - Belmont – (02) 4947 7899 Totally Immersed Watersports - Nowra (02) 4421 5936 Hunts Marine - Batemans Bay – (02) 4472 2612 Compleat Angler – Merimbula – (02) 6495 3985

MARINE MECHANICS COFFS COAST Coffs Harbour Marine (02) 6652 4722 North Coast Boating Centre (02) 6655 7700 Jetty Boating (02) 6651 4002

This section in NSW Fishing Monthly consolidates the trades and services in your area that are relevant to your fishing and boating. Whether you’re a local looking for more options or a travelling angler fishing around the state, this guide will direct you to reputable businesses in the area you’re searching. 82

NOVEMBER 2018

Boats & Guided Fishing Tours Directory SYDNEY

BAIT & TACKLE

Penrith Marine (02) 4731 6250 Cohoe Marine Products (Sydney) (02) 9519 3575 Blakes Marine (02) 4577 6699 Watersports Marine (02) 9676 1400 Marina Bayside (02) 9524 0044 Shannons Outboards (02) 9482 2638 Hi Tech Marine (02) 4256 6135 TR Marine World (02) 4577 3522

Lazer Lures Catch Fish

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ONLINE TACKLE PRODUCTS

www.fishin.com.au TOURNAMENT TACKLE STORE

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SYDNEY The Boat Pimpers (Sydney) (02) 9792 7799

02 6646 1514

•

OPEN 7 DAYS

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FRESHWATER

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Advertisers wanting to be involved in this directory can call (07) 3387 0800 or email ads@fishingmonthly.com.au NOVEMBER 2018

2018 2018 2018 Local Time

SYDNEY (FORT DENISON) – NEW SOUTH WALES SYDNEY(FORT (FORT DENISON) NEW SOUTH WALES SYDNEY DENISON) – –NEW WALES LAT 33° 52’ LONG 151°SOUTH 13’ JANUARY SEPTEMBER JANUARY Time Time m

LAT 33° LONG 151° LAT 33° 52’52’ of LONG 151° 13’13’ Times and Heights High and Low Waters Times and Heights of High and Low Waters Times and Heights of High and Low Waters MARCH FEBRUARY OCTOBER NOVEMBER MARCH FEBRUARY m Time Time m Time m Time m

Time m m Time m m Time Time 0213 0.53 0141 0.34 0812 1.96 0846 1.72 0045 1.23 0540 0.43 0213 0.53 0141 0.34 1451 0.19 1525 0.39 0636 0.59 1203 1.49 0812 1.96 0846 1.72 TU MO 2116 1.33 2049 1.48 TUSU 1312 1.47 1813 0.54 1451 0.19 1525 0.39 MOSA 19551.33 0.59 2116 2049 1.48 0233 0.32 0250 0.51 0904 2.04 0922 1.75 0145 1.14 0015 1.36 0233 0.32 0250 0.51 1544 0.12 WE 1559 0.37 0729 0.66 0625 0.49 0904 2.04 0922 1.75 TU 2144 1.50WE 2152 1.35 1410 1.43 1255 1.50 1544 0.12 1559 0.37 MO TUSU 21041.35 0.61 19151.50 0.56 2144 2152 0326 0.32 0327 0.50 0956 2.07 0958 1.76 0256 1.10 0115 1.27 0326 0.32 0327 0.50 1636 0.09 1633 0.35 0718 0.54 0831 0.70 0956 2.07 0958 1.76 WE TH 2238 1.50 THTU 2229 1.36 1355 1.51 1515 1.41 1636 0.09 1633 0.35 MO WE 22111.36 0.59 20301.50 0.56 2238 2229 0419 0.34 0404 0.50 1047 2.05 1033 1.75 0408 1.12 0228 1.21 0419 0.34 0404 0.50 1728 0.12 1708 0.36 0940 0.69 0823 0.56 1047 2.05 1033 1.75 TH FR 2331 1.48 FR 2305 1.36 1618 1.44 1502 1.56 1728 0.12 1708 0.36 WE THTU 23081.36 0.54 21501.48 0.50 2331 2305 0514 0.38 0444 0.51 1139 1.97 1109 1.72 0508 1.18 0348 1.22 0514 0.38 0444 0.51 1818 0.18 1743 0.37 1043 0.65 0935 0.54 1139 1.97 1109 1.72 FR SA 2345 1.37 1713 1.48 16120.18 1.64 SATH 1818 1743 0.37 WE FR 23541.37 0.48 2300 0.39 2345 0025 1.46 0524 0.53 0609 0.45 1146 1.68 0555 1.25 0501 1.28 0025 1.46 0524 0.53 1230 1.84 SU 1819 0.39 1134 0.59 1044 0.48 0609 0.45 1146 1.68 SA 1909 0.27SUFR 17590.39 1.54 1715 1.75 1230 1.84 1819 SATH 1909 0.27 0120 1.44 0026 1.38 0706 0.52 0608 0.56 0000 0.28 0034 0.42 0120 1.44 0026 1.38 1321 1.69 MO 1226 1.61 0634 1.32 0601 1.37 0706 0.52 0608 0.56 SU 1858 0.42 2000 0.36MOSA 1219 0.52 1145 0.39 1321 1.69 1226 1.61 SUFR 18390.42 1.59 18140.36 1.85 1858 2000 0215 1.42 0111 1.39 0806 0.60 0658 0.60 0052 0.18 0108 0.37 0215 1.42 0111 1.39 1415 1.53 1310 1.53 0655 1.46 0710 1.39 0806 0.60 0658 0.60 MO TU 2049 0.45 TUSU 1941 0.45 1241 0.31 1259 0.46 1415 1.53 1310 1.53 MOSA 19060.45 1.92 19150.45 1.63 2049 1941 0201 1.41 0313 1.42 0141 0.11 0141 0.33 0754 0.63 0913 0.66 0201 1.41 0313 1.42 1400 1.45 1513 1.39 WE 0744 1.55 0744 1.45 0754 0.63 0913 0.66 TU 1334 0.25 1336 0.41 2029 0.48 2140 0.52WE 1400 1.45 1513 1.39 MO TUSU 19570.52 1.94 19510.48 1.65 2029 2140 0411 1.43 0257 1.44 0226 0.10 0212 0.30 1023 0.68 0900 0.64 0411 1.43 0257 1.44 1615 1.29 1501 1.37 0831 1.61 0817 1.51 1023 0.68 0900 0.64 WE TH 1427 0.22 1414 0.37 2124 0.50 2230 0.56 THTU 1615 1.29 1501 1.37 MO WE 20450.56 1.90 20270.50 1.64 2124 2230 0508 1.47 0358 1.51 0309 0.12 0243 0.30 1133 0.67 1016 0.61 0508 1.47 0358 1.51 0918 1.64 0851 1.56 1720 1.23 1615 1.32 1133 0.67 1016 0.61 TH FR 1517 0.23 1452 0.35 2320 0.58 FR 2225 0.50 1720 1.23 1615 1.32 WE THTU 21330.58 1.80 21040.50 1.61 2320 2225 0600 1.52 0501 1.60 0351 0.19 0315 0.31 1237 0.62 1133 0.53 0600 1.52 0501 1.60 1003 1.65 0928 1.60 1820 1.22 1731 1.32 1237 0.62 1133 0.53 FR SA 16081.22 0.28 SATH 1534 0.35 2329 0.47 1820 1731 1.32 WE FR 2220 1.67 21430.47 1.56 2329 0009 0.58 0603 1.71 0432 0.28 0350 0.34 0647 1.57 1244 0.42 0009 0.58 0603 1.71 1049 1.62 1007 1.62 1329 0.56 SU 1841 1.35 0647 1.57 1244 0.42 SA 1700 0.36 16181.35 0.36 1913 1.24SUFR 1329 0.56 1841 SATH 23061.24 1.51 2225 1.49 1913 0053 0.56 0029 0.43 0512 0.39 0427 0.39 0730 1.63 0702 1.83 0053 0.56 0029 0.43 1134 1.58 1048 1.63 1411 0.49 MO 1345 0.29 0730 1.63 0702 1.83 SU 1754 0.45 1707 0.40 1958 1.27MOSA 1943 1.41 1411 0.49 1345 0.29 SUFR 23541.27 1.36 23121.41 1.40 1958 1943 0134 0.55 0127 0.38 0552 0.50 0509 0.45 0810 1.68 0758 1.94 0134 0.55 0127 0.38 1221 1.53 1135 1.61 1449 0.44 1440 0.19 0810 1.68 0758 1.94 MO TU 1851 0.53 1802 0.44 2038 1.30 TUSU 2038 1.47 1449 0.44 1440 0.19 MOSA 2038 1.30 2038 1.47 0221 0.33 0851 2.01 0221 0.33 1530 0.12 0851 2.01 WE 2130 1.52 0.12 WE 1530 2130 1.52

Time m m Time m m Time Time 0311 0.46 0315 0.30 0943 2.04 0936 1.75 0211 1.14 0005 1.30 0311 0.46 0315 0.30 1618 0.11 FR 1605 0.34 0740 0.71 0558 0.52 0943 2.04 0936 1.75 TH 2203 1.44 2220 1.54FRTU 1415 1.44 1229 1.59 1618 0.11 1605 0.34 MO TH 21171.44 0.59 19071.54 0.47 2203 2220 0348 0.44 0407 0.30 1032 2.00 1012 1.75 0110 1.23 0318 1.12 0348 0.44 0407 0.30 1705 0.14 SA 1638 0.33 0656 0.58 0845 0.75 1032 2.00 1012 1.75 FR 2310 1.55SAWE 2239 1.47 1330 1.57 1518 1.40 1705 0.14 1638 0.33 FRTU 20221.55 0.47 22211.47 0.58 2310 2239 0427 0.44 0459 0.33 1047 1.72 1120 1.91 0226 1.20 0429 1.15 0427 0.44 0459 0.33 1712 0.34 1750 0.21 SU 0808 0.61 0959 0.75 1047 1.72 1120 1.91 SA 2316 1.50 2358 1.54SUTH 1443 1.57 1628 1.40 1712 0.34 1750 0.21 WE SA 21381.54 0.43 23191.50 0.55 2316 2358 0508 0.45 0550 0.39 1126 1.67 1207 1.77 0346 1.23 0530 1.21 0508 0.45 0550 0.39 1746 0.36 1833 0.30 MO 0925 0.58 1107 0.71 1126 1.67 1207 1.77 SU 2357 1.51 15560.30 1.62MOFR 1730 1.43 1746 0.36 1833 SUTH 2244 0.35 2357 1.51 0553 0.48 0045 1.51 1206 1.60 0643 0.48 0453 1.32 0008 0.49 0553 0.48 0045 1.51 1824 0.40 1254 1.61 TU 1036 0.51 0618 1.29 1206 1.60 0643 0.48 MO 1916 0.41TUSA 1700 1.70 12040.40 0.64 1824 1254 1.61 MOFR 23400.41 0.27 1820 1.47 1916 0040 1.52 0134 1.48 0642 0.51 0738 0.57 0548 1.43 0049 0.44 0040 1.52 0134 1.48 1250 1.51 1341 1.45 WE 1138 0.41 0700 1.38 0642 0.51 0738 0.57 TU 1905 0.45 1959 0.50WESU 1758 1.76 1253 0.56 1250 1.51 1341 1.45 TUSA 19030.45 1.52 1905 1959 0.50 0128 1.53 0226 1.45 0838 0.64 0738 0.55 0126 0.39 0030 0.20 0128 1.53 0226 1.45 1431 1.31 TH 1342 1.41 0738 1.54 0736 1.47 0838 0.64 0738 0.55 WE 2045 0.58THMO 1952 0.51 1333 0.32 1335 0.48 1431 1.31 1342 1.41 WESU 19490.58 1.80 19430.51 1.55 2045 1952 0320 1.43 0223 1.53 0945 0.69 0845 0.58 0159 0.35 0215 0.17 0320 1.43 0223 1.53 1531 1.21 FR 1445 1.32 0811 1.55 0824 1.63 0945 0.69 0845 0.58 TH 2136 0.64FRTU 2050 0.56 1415 0.41 1426 0.25 1531 1.21 1445 1.32 MO TH 20210.56 1.57 20380.64 1.78 2136 2050 0419 1.44 0327 1.55 0231 0.32 0257 0.18 1057 0.69 1002 0.57 0419 1.44 0327 1.55 1643 1.16 SA 1602 1.26 0845 1.63 0908 1.69 1057 0.69 1002 0.57 FR 1455 0.35 1515 0.23 2235 0.67SAWE 2200 0.58 1643 1.16 1602 1.26 FRTU 21000.58 1.57 21260.67 1.72 2235 2200 0519 1.46 0437 1.61 0336 0.22 0305 0.32 1205 0.65 1122 0.51 0519 1.46 0437 1.61 1752 1.17 SU 1724 1.28 0951 1.73 0922 1.70 1205 0.65 1122 0.51 SA 1603 0.24 1537 0.30 2334 0.66SUTH 2312 0.56 1752 1.17 1724 1.28 WE SA 22110.66 1.63 21410.56 1.55 2334 2312 0615 1.51 0546 1.70 0415 0.29 0341 0.33 1300 0.59 1232 0.41 0615 1.51 0546 1.70 1033 1.73 1000 1.76 1851 1.21 MO 1835 1.34 1300 0.59 1232 0.41 SU 16521.21 0.28MOFR 16211.34 0.28 1851 1835 SUTH 2256 1.51 2225 1.50 0028 0.63 0018 0.49 0452 0.38 0418 0.36 0702 1.57 0648 1.80 0028 0.63 0018 0.49 1115 1.70 1042 1.78 1346 0.52 TU 1331 0.30 0702 1.57 0648 1.80 MO 1739 0.34 1708 0.28 1938 1.26TUSA 1933 1.43 1346 0.52 1331 0.30 MOFR 23411.26 1.40 23131.43 1.44 1938 1933 0114 0.59 0118 0.42 0530 0.47 0500 0.42 0745 1.63 0745 1.89 0114 0.59 0118 0.42 1156 1.65 1127 1.78 1425 0.45 WE 1424 0.22 0745 1.63 0745 1.89 TU 1828 0.42 1800 0.31 2018 1.32WESU 2026 1.51 1425 0.45 1424 0.22 TUSA 2018 1.32 2026 1.51 0155 0.54 0027 1.29 0004 1.37 0824 1.68 0155 0.54 0607 0.56 0547 0.49 1500 0.40 0824 1.68 WE 1237 1.58 2054 1.36 MO 1216 1.74 1500 0.40 WESU 19181.36 0.50 1857 0.35 2054 0233 0.50 0115 1.20 0102 1.30 0900 1.72 0233 0.50 0649 0.65 0642 0.56 1533 0.36 0900 1.72 TH 1322 1.50 2129 1.40 TU 1311 1.69 1533 0.36 MO TH 20151.40 0.56 2001 0.39 2129

m Time m m Time m m Time Time 0214 0.51 0213 0.34 0837 1.94 0832 1.69 0340 1.19 0323 1.25 0214 0.51 0213 0.34 1511 0.17 FR 1459 0.37 0908 0.78 0859 0.64 0837 1.94 0832 1.69 TH 2100 1.50 2114 1.58FRFR 1528 1.40 1525 1.61 1511 0.17 1459 0.37 THTH 2223 0.55 22201.58 0.39 2100 1.50 2114 0304 0.30 0251 0.45 0926 1.94 0909 1.72 0441 1.25 0435 1.31 0304 0.30 0251 0.45 1555 0.17 SA 1531 0.34 1019 0.75 1015 0.61 0926 1.94 0909 1.72 FR 2200 1.62SASA 2135 1.57 1633 1.39 1637 1.61 1555 0.17 1531 0.34 FRFR 2314 0.52 23211.62 0.35 2200 2135 1.57 0354 0.29 0330 0.41 1014 1.89 0946 1.72 0533 1.33 0537 1.40 0354 0.29 0330 0.41 1636 0.21 SU 1604 0.33 1126 0.54 1124 0.70 1014 1.89 0946 1.72 SA 2244 1.64SUSU 2211 1.62 1743 1.63 1731 1.41 1636 0.21 1604 0.33 SASA 2358 0.47 2244 1.64 2211 1.62 0443 0.32 0411 0.39 1059 1.79 1026 1.70 0617 1.42 0014 0.31 0443 0.32 0411 0.39 1716 0.29 MO 1638 0.34 1219 0.62 0630 1.51 1059 1.79 1026 1.70 SU 2327 1.63MOMO 2249 1.66 1821 1.44 1230 0.45 1716 0.29 1638 0.34 SUSU 18391.63 1.64 2327 2249 1.66 0531 0.38 0455 0.39 1143 1.66 1107 1.64 0037 0.43 0101 0.28 0531 0.38 0455 0.39 1754 0.38 TU 1715 0.37 0658 1.53 0717 1.61 1143 1.66 1107 1.64 MO 2330 1.69 1308 0.52 13260.38 0.37 TUTU 1754 1715 0.37 MOMO 1907 1.47 1931 1.63 2330 1.69 0009 1.60 0542 0.41 0619 0.46 1151 1.57 0115 0.39 0145 0.28 0009 1.60 0542 0.41 1225 1.52 WE 1754 0.43 0735 1.63 0802 1.70 0619 0.46 1151 1.57 TU 1830 0.48WEWE 1353 0.43 1417 0.31 1225 1.52 1754 0.43 TUTU 1950 1.49 20190.48 1.60 1830 0052 1.56 0015 1.69 0709 0.55 0634 0.44 0151 0.36 0224 0.30 0052 1.56 0015 1.69 1308 1.38 TH 1240 1.47 0814 1.74 0845 1.76 0709 0.55 0634 0.44 WE 1837 0.50 1907 0.57THTH 1437 0.34 1505 0.28 1308 1.38 1240 1.47 WEWE 2035 1.50 21050.57 1.54 1837 0.50 1907 0136 1.51 0103 1.67 0803 0.62 0732 0.49 0302 0.34 0230 0.35 0136 1.51 0103 1.67 1356 1.27 FR 1335 1.37 0926 1.79 0855 1.83 0803 0.62 0732 0.49 TH 1948 0.66FRFR 1928 0.58 1551 0.28 1522 0.27 1356 1.27 1335 1.37 THTH 21500.66 1.47 2121 1.49 1948 1928 0.58 0200 1.64 0226 1.46 0339 0.40 0310 0.36 0841 0.52 0904 0.67 0200 1.64 0226 1.46 1443 1.29 1453 1.18 SA 1005 1.79 0938 1.89 0841 0.52 0904 0.67 FR 1635 0.31 1610 0.23 2030 0.64 2040 0.72SASA 1443 1.29 1453 1.18 FRFR 22340.72 1.40 2211 1.46 2030 0.64 2040 0324 1.43 0306 1.62 0415 0.47 0355 0.38 1014 0.69 0958 0.52 0324 1.43 0306 1.62 1604 1.15 SU 1602 1.27 1044 1.76 1023 1.92 1014 0.69 0958 0.52 SA 1718 0.35 1700 0.21 2146 0.67 2146 0.75SUSU 1604 1.15 1602 1.27 SASA 23160.75 1.33 2302 1.43 2146 0.67 2146 0430 1.43 0420 1.64 0451 0.54 0443 0.43 1123 0.66 1112 0.48 0430 1.43 0420 1.64 1121 1.71 1112 1.91 1721 1.17 MO 1722 1.31 1123 0.66 1112 0.48 SU 1801 0.41 1753 0.23 2257 0.75MOMO 2303 0.63 1721 1.17 1722 1.31 SUSU 2358 1.38 2257 0.75 2303 0.63 0533 1.47 0531 1.69 0000 1.26 0534 0.49 1222 0.61 1217 0.41 0533 1.47 0531 1.69 0529 0.61 1203 1.87 1824 1.22 TU 1827 1.40 1222 0.61 1217 0.41 MO 12001.22 1.64 TUTU 1850 0.27 1824 1827 1.40 MOMO 1846 0.47 0000 0.70 0011 0.55 0057 1.34 0045 1.21 0628 1.52 0634 1.76 0000 0.70 0011 0.55 0632 0.55 0610 0.67 1311 0.54 WE 1313 0.34 0628 1.52 0634 1.76 TU 1259 1.79 1241 1.57 1912 1.29WEWE 1921 1.50 1311 0.54 1313 0.34 TUTU 1950 0.31 19341.29 0.52 1912 1921 1.50 0051 0.64 0111 0.47 0200 1.32 0136 1.18 0715 1.59 0729 1.81 0051 0.64 0111 0.47 0736 0.60 0659 0.73 1351 0.48 TH 1400 0.29 0715 1.59 0729 1.81 WE 1400 1.71 1328 1.50 1951 1.37THTH 2009 1.59 1351 0.48 1400 0.29 WEWE 2053 0.35 20281.37 0.55 1951 2009 1.59 0134 0.57 0204 0.39 0235 1.17 0308 1.34 0755 1.65 0819 1.83 0134 0.57 0204 0.39 0759 0.77 0846 0.63 1426 0.42 FR 1445 0.27 0755 1.65 0819 1.83 TH 1423 1.44 FRFR 1505 1.62 2027 2053 1.66 1426 0.42 1445 0.27 THTH 21261.44 0.57 2155 0.37 2027 2053 1.66 0254 0.35 0906 1.80 0254 0.35 1525 0.28 0906 1.80 SA 2135 1.71 0.28 SA 1525 2135 1.71

1 11

16 1616

2 22

17 1717

3 33

18 1818

4 44

19 1919

5 55

20 2020

6 66

21 2121

7 77

22 2222

8 88

23 2323

9 99

24 2424

25 2525

10 1010

11 1111

26 2626

27 2727

12 1212

13 13 13

28 2828

14 14 14 15 15 15

1 11

16 1616

2 22

17 1717

3 33

18 1818

4 44

19 1919

5 55

20 2020

6 66

21 2121

7 77

22 2222

8 88

23 2323

9 99

24 2424

10 10 10

1 11

16 1616

2 22

17 1717

3 33

18 1818

4 44

19 1919

5 55

20 2020

6 66

21 2121

7 77

22 2222

8 88

23 2323

9 99

24 2424

25 2525

10 1010

11 11 11

26 2626

12 12 12

Local Time Local Time APRIL DECEMBER Time TimeAPRIL m

m Timem m Timem m Time Time 0212 0.40 0241 0.34 0819 1.68 0851 1.74 0345 1.28 0414 1.39 0212 0.40 0241 0.34 1428 0.36 1502 0.33 0925 0.76 1000 0.62 MO 0819 1.68 0851 1.74 SU 2043 1.79 2115 1.73 1531 1.38 1615 1.56MO SU 1428 0.36 1502 0.33 SU SA 2214 2251 0.38 2043 1.790.53 2115 1.73 0327 0.36 0256 0.36 0934 1.65 0903 1.65 0514 1.47 0440 1.35 0327 0.36 0256 0.36 1538 0.40 1505 0.38 1113 0.58 TU 1034 0.73 0934 1.65 0903 1.65 MO 2155 1.73 2124 1.84 1720 1.52TUMO 1635 1.35 1538 0.40 1505 0.38 MOSU 2343 0.38 2302 2155 1.73 2124 1.840.51 0412 0.41 0344 0.34 1016 1.54 0950 1.60 0607 1.56 0530 1.45 0412 0.41 0344 0.34 1613 0.48 1545 0.42 1219 0.52 WE 1140 0.66 1016 1.54 0950 1.60 TU 2233 1.70 2208 1.86 1819 1.48WE TU 1735 1.35 1613 0.48 1545 0.42 TUMO 2347 2233 1.70 2208 1.860.47 0456 0.47 0434 0.35 1058 1.44 1041 1.53 0030 0.39 0616 1.56 0456 0.47 0434 0.35 1645 0.56 1630 0.48 0656 1.65 TH 1237 0.56 1058 1.44 1041 1.53 WE 2311 1.65 2255 1.85 1318 0.45THWE 1830 1.37 1645 0.56 1630 0.48 WE TU 1913 1.45 2311 1.65 2255 1.85 0542 0.54 0530 0.39 1135 1.44 1140 1.34 0113 0.40 0031 0.44 0542 0.54 0530 0.39 1718 0.56 1720 0.65 0741 1.72 FR 0700 1.68 1135 1.44 1140 1.34 TH 2346 1.80 2350 1.59 1410 0.39FR TH 1330 0.45 1718 0.56 1720 0.65 THWE 2002 1.42 1923 2346 1.801.40 2350 1.59 0631 0.60 0630 0.43 1226 1.26 1235 1.37 0153 0.42 0115 0.41 0631 0.60 0630 0.43 1800 0.72 1815 0.64 0823 1.77 SA 0745 1.80 1226 1.26 1235 1.37 FR 1456 0.36SA FR 1420 1800 0.72 1815 0.640.34 FR TH 2048 1.39 2015 1.43 0035 1.53 0045 1.75 0726 0.65 0739 0.47 0200 0.38 0231 0.45 0035 1.53 0045 1.75 1320 1.21 1345 1.32 0902 1.79 SU 0832 1.90 0726 0.65 0739 0.47 SA 1851 0.78 1921 0.70 1538 0.34SU SA 1509 0.24 1320 1.21 1345 1.32 SA FR 2131 1.36 2106 1851 0.78 1921 0.701.44 0130 1.48 0152 1.70 0829 0.67 0850 0.48 0308 0.48 0248 0.37 0130 1.48 0152 1.70 1428 1.18 1501 1.33 0941 1.80 MO 0920 1.98 0829 0.67 0850 0.48 SU 1958 0.82 2038 0.71 1618 0.34MO SU 1559 0.17 1428 1.18 1501 1.33 SU SA 2213 1.33 2158 1958 0.82 2038 0.711.45 0235 1.45 0305 1.67 0345 0.52 0338 0.37 0934 0.66 0956 0.46 0235 1.45 0305 1.67 1542 1.21 1612 1.39 1017 1.78 TU 1009 2.02 0934 0.66 0956 0.46 MO 1657 0.36TUMO 1649 0.15 2114 0.82 2154 0.68 1542 1.21 1612 1.39 MOSU 2253 1.30 2251 2114 0.82 2154 0.681.45 0345 1.46 0415 1.68 0421 0.56 0430 0.39 1034 0.62 1055 0.43 0345 1.46 0415 1.68 1645 1.27 1711 1.48 1054 1.74 WE 1100 2.01 1034 0.62 1055 0.43 TU 1735 0.39WE TU 1742 0.15 2222 0.78 2301 0.61 1645 1.27 1711 1.48 TUMO 2333 1.28 2345 2222 0.78 2301 0.611.43 0445 1.50 0515 1.70 0500 0.60 0525 0.42 1124 0.57 1145 0.40 0445 1.50 0515 1.70 1130 1.69 TH 1152 1.95 1735 1.35 1801 1.58 1124 0.57 1145 0.40 WE 1815 0.43THWE 1835 2319 0.70 1735 1.35 1801 1.580.20 WE TU 2319 0.70 0534 1.56 0001 0.53 0015 1.25 0043 1.42 1205 0.51 0609 1.70 0534 1.56 0001 0.53 0540 0.65 FR 0622 0.47 1815 1.44 1230 0.38 1205 0.51 0609 1.70 TH 1209 1.63FR TH 1245 1.85 1847 1.67 1815 1.44 1230 0.38 THWE 1857 0.47 1930 1847 1.670.26 0006 0.62 0054 0.47 0100 1.23 0141 1.41 0617 1.61 0658 1.68 0006 0.62 0054 0.47 0626 0.69 SA 0723 0.53 1243 0.45 1312 0.39 0617 1.61 0658 1.68 FR 1250 1.56SA FR 1342 1.73 1852 1.53 1930 1.74 1243 0.45 1312 0.39 FR TH 1942 0.51 2026 1852 1.53 1930 1.740.33 0048 0.54 0142 0.43 0150 1.23 0242 1.42 0658 1.65 0744 1.64 0048 0.54 0142 0.43 0717 0.73 SU 0830 0.58 1317 0.40 1349 0.41 0658 1.65 0744 1.64 SA 1337 1.49SU SA 1442 1.59 1928 1.62 2009 1.78 1317 0.40 1349 0.41 SA FR 2031 0.53 2121 1928 1.62 2009 1.780.39 0130 0.46 0227 0.41 0245 1.24 0344 1.45 0738 1.68 0827 1.58 0130 0.46 0227 0.41 0817 0.76 MO 0942 0.61 1351 0.37 1425 0.46 0738 1.68 0827 1.58 SU 1430 1.42MO SU 1547 1.47 2004 1.71 2047 1.80 1351 0.37 1425 0.46 SU SA 2123 0.54 2215 2004 1.71 2047 1.800.44

1 11

16 1616

2 22

17 1717

3 33

18 1818

4 44

19 1919

5 55

20 2020

6 66

21 2121

7 77

22 2222

8 88

23 2323

9 99

24 2424

25 2525

10 1010

25 2525

11 1111

26 2626

11 1111

26 2626

27 2727

12 1212

27 2727

12 1212

27 2727

13 1313

28 2828

13 1313

28 2828

13 1313

28 2828

29 2929

14 1414

29 2929

14 1414

29 2929

30 3030

15 1515

30 3030

15 1515

30 3030

31 31

31 0209 0745

1.25 0.62 WE 1414 1.64 2112 0.40

31 31

31 0445 1056

1.50 0.61 MO 1654 1.38 2308 0.47

 Copyright Commonwealth of Australia 2016, Bureau of Meteorology Copyright Commonwealth Australia 2016, Bureau Meteorology  Copyright Commonwealth of of Australia 2016, Bureau of of Meteorology Datum of Predictions is Lowest Astronomical Tide Datum of Predictions is Lowest Astronomical Tide Datum of are Predictions is Lowesttime Astronomical Tideor daylight savings time (UTC +11:00) when in effect Times in local standard (UTC +10:00) Times are in local standard time (UTC +10:00) daylight savings time (UTC +11:00) when in effect Times are in local standard time (UTC +10:00) or or daylight savings time (UTC +11:00) when in effect New Moon First Quarter Last Quarter Moon Phase Symbols Full Moon Moon Phase Symbols Full Moon New Moon First Quarter Last Quarter New Moon First Quarter Last Quarter Moon Phase Symbols Full Moon Tide predictions for Sydney (Fort Denison) have been formatted by the National Tidal Centre, Australian Bureau of Meteorology, Copyright reserved. All material is supplied in good faith and is believed to be correct. It is supplied on the condition that no warranty is given in relation thereto, that no responsibility or liability for errors or omissions is, or will be, accepted and that the recipient will hold MHL and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology Australia free from all such responsibility or liability and from all loss or damage incurred as a consequence of any error or omission. Predictions should not be used for navigational purposes. Use of these tide predictions will be deemed to include acceptance of the above conditions. 86

NOVEMBER 2018

boats & kayaks

In the skipper’s seat 88 Abandon ship! Inside story...

The team at Baysport Boats began building fibreglass boats over 25 years ago on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Initially there was only one model available - a 5.3m half cabin. This boat was well received and before long a 4.9m runabout was added to the range. Other boats were added to the range and interest was shown from interstate buyers.

Made for...

The Baysport Boats team is dedicated to building affordable but solidly built fibreglass boats that are exceptional value for money yet achieve outstanding on-water performance.

This month...

We’re checking out the 640 Sports powered by a 175hp V6 Mercury with Gary Brown. Check it out on page 94!

Justin Willmer looks at the joys of parking the kayak and venturing out on foot.

91 Yakking Urunga

Dayne Taylor examines what this lovely part of the coast can offer the yak angler.

92 Planning a boat trip Wayne Kampe looks at what you can do on land to make your trip more enjoyable.

96 Haines Hunter 585R

Steve Morgan takes this beast with a Yamaha F200hp four stroke out on a breezy Port Phillip Bay.

98 New from Lowrance See what’s new in the wonderful world of Lowrance marine electronics.

NOVEMBER 2018

WHAT’S NEW BOATING YAMAHA SUMMER SALE

Say hello to summer with Yamaha’s outboard sale, and take advantage of this special deal: $15 per hp off all 2.5-130hp Yamaha 4-stroke outboards. This offer provides significant savings of up to $1950. Whether you are repowering or buying a new boat, Yamaha is giving boaties this summer the perfect opportunity to pick up a new outboard for less. From the revolutionary F25 and F75 to the next generation F90, Yamaha outboards have been fuelling the summers of Australian boaties for many years. With one of the most extensive ranges of outboard engines in the market, Yamaha has reliable engine options for every boat, large or small. This special limited offer is available to recreational customers until 30 November. Visit your local Yamaha dealer to learn more, or visit the Yamaha Marine website. You can also check them out on Facebook at www. facebook.com/YamahaOutboardsAustralia. www.yamaha-motor.com.au/outboard

AUGMENTED REALITY FROM RAYMARINE 2 Raymarine ClearCruise AR (Augmented Reality) brings enhanced on water awareness to Raymarine’s Axiom multifunction displays (MFDs). There is also a new video stabilisation module, the Raymarine AR200, which integrates with ClearCruise. ClearCruise AR video imagery is supported by Raymarine CAM210 HD marine cameras to provide an augmented reality view from any camera position on the vessel. The video stabilisation module includes a precision GPS/GNSS sensor and the same attitude heading reference sensor (AHRS) technology used in Raymarine’s award-winning Evolution autopilots. ClearCruise AR accurately displays nearby navigation markers, automatic identification system (AIS) traffic, objects, and waypoints in sync with real-world imagery, which is ideal for complex navigation and high traffic situations. ClearCruise AR for Raymarine Axiom, Axiom Pro, and Axiom XL is compatible with the upcoming LightHouse 3.7 OS update. Price: SRP $999 (camera), $899 (video stabilisation module) www.raymarine.com/clearcruise

SIMRAD HALO24

Simrad’s HALO24 combines the performance and reliability of Simrad’s radars with the advantages of innovative technology and a lightweight design. It boasts 60rpm high-speed rotation at distances up to 2nm. Offering high quality short, mid, and long-range detection, up to 48nm, HALO24 processes multiple ranges simultaneously for instantaneous Dual Range performance. VelocityTrack Doppler technology provides instant visual feedback on the motion of radar targets in relation to the boat – colourcoding approaching vessels, as well as MARPA functionality, decreasing the risk of collision. The lightest 24” Pulse Compression radar dome on the market, the low profile Halo dome offers different power-level options. In a matter of seconds, the radar will boot from low-power standby to full functionality in any mode—harbour, offshore, weather, and bird. This easy-to-use radar optimizes up to 18 parameters for each pre-defined mode. Price: SRP $3599 www.simrad-yachting.com 90

NOVEMBER 2018

MERCURY FOURSTROKE SALE

Big savings of up to $1150 are now available on selected 2.5-115hp Mercury FourStroke outboards. By acting quickly, boat owners can also take advantage of Mercury Finance’s very competitive loan rate of just 3.99% (comparison rate) for 40-150hp repowers**. The Mercury FourStroke Revolution savings offer is available to recreational and commercial customers until 23 November. Mercury FourStrokes deliver reliable starting, excellent fuel efficiency, smooth operation, electronic fuel injection (EFI models), tougher components, corrosion protection, and the availability of SmartCraft digital monitoring on selected models. *All new 15 and 20hp FourStroke models excluded. **For recreational customers. Fees, terms, conditions and credit criteria apply. www.mercurymarine.com.au

RAYMARINE RVX1000

The RVX1000 3D CHIRP Sonar brings RealVision 3D high-powered CHIRP Sonar to Raymarine’s Axiom XL MFDs (available in 16”, 19”, 22” and 24”). The RVX1000 can be customised to fit any boat with a wide range of available transducer options. There are dual transducer ports; Port 1 supports a Raymarine RealVision 3D transducer system while port 2 supports a range of AIRMAR broadband CHIRP transducers. Supported channels include: RealVision 3D, which shows you in 3D space the exact position of fish and structure (you can rotate the image and view it from any angle); CHIRP DownVision, which gives you a high definition, 2D photo-like view of underwater structure and fish as deep as 180m; CHIRP SideVision, which can see out to 90m on both sides in water as shallow as 1ft, and produces photolike images; High Frequency CHIRP, used for spotting gamefish and bait balls to depths of 270m; and 1kW CHIRP, which delivers excellent performance in depths up to 1500m. Owners of Raymarine eS and gS Series systems can also use RVX1000 sonar. www.raymarine.com.au

SUZUKI DF175A AND DF150A

PRODUCT GUIDE

The new Suzuki DF175A and DF150A deliver outstanding power and performance together with superior fuel efficiency – all from a super compact and lightweight unit. Osawa Yasuharu, Executive General Manager, Global Marine Products Operation, said the DF175A and DF150A both benefit from Suzuki’s Lean Burn Control System, which is designed to save fuel both at low speed and up into the cruising range. “The new DF175A and the DF150A are packed with the very latest Suzuki’s technologies,” he said. The new outboards are equipped with a Semi-Direct Air Intake System for a cooler flow of air, O2 Sensor to optimise combustion, and a knock sensor for superior reliability. Suzuki has also utilised its pioneering offset driveshaft to move the outboard’s centre of gravity forward, to improve balance and reduce vibration on the transom whilst contributing to the outboard’s overall compactness. The DF175A and DF150A will be available in early 2019. www.suzukimarine.com.au

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

SCAN THE QR CODE!

Urunga – where the rivers meet the sea URUNGA

Dayne Taylor

This month’s Kayak Hotspot takes you to the picturesque mid north coast town of Urunga, situated a casual 20-minute drive south of the CBD of Coffs Harbour, and a leisurely 15 minutes north of Nambucca.

at the Riverside Holiday Resort. It’s all within walking distance to cafes, hotels, grocery stores and of course the water. Three of the holiday parks also have river front access. After calling into the local tackle store in Coffs Harbour (MO Tackle & Outdoors) you will leave with some great insights as to what to chase at this time

and it’s open to anyone and everyone. It’s well worth looking into if you are interested in lure and fly fishing competitions. YAKKING Urunga has plenty on offer for kayak anglers! There are many places to launch your kayak in the river, and the most convenient is along Atherton Drive. It includes two public boat ramps and

Craig Hanlon with a snapper from Wenonah Headland.

Rigged up and ready to catch a snapper at Wenonah Headland. As you enter the town you’ll see a sign saying ‘Urunga, where the rivers meet the sea’, and there’s no better way to explain it than exactly that. The town is built right where the Bellinger River and Kalang River merge into one and enter the sea via an ocean bar. So it really is a ‘choose your own adventure’ kind of location!

of year, where the best places to launch are, and of course a few new lures to test out while out on the water. I also recommend contacting Dale from Freshest Fishing Tours if your main priority is catching fish. Dale has a wealth of knowledge of the area and is definitely worth spending some time on the water with, that’s for sure.

The author caught this Belinger River bream on a Cranka Crab. Urunga is a relatively small town but it still boasts plenty of accommodation options, including a variety of caravan parks, offering both powered and un-powered camp sites. And for the people wanting a little more comfort there’s a multitude of cabins and even very affordable fully furnished units available

And if you particularly like chasing flatties, you can enter the annual Berkley Urunga Flathead Tournament. Every year on the second weekend in November this sleepy little town comes alive with anglers from far and wide coming to compete. It’s a fun catch, photo and release friendly fishing competition,

a stretch of approximately 1km of river frontage. Both the Bellinger and Kalang Rivers are recreational fishing havens, and offer a vast variety of estuary fishing options. In the lower tidal stretches of the river systems you will find miles of clear water covering sand flats, manmade rock training walls, bridges, pontoons and jetties. It’s perfect for chasing bread and butter species such as bream, flathead and of course whiting. Some of these same areas also have trophy-size mulloway, trevally (big-eye and juvenile giant trevally), and mangrove jack all co-mingling together. Additionally, just 10 minutes’ drive west (or a solid couple of hours in the yak upriver), you will find plenty of Australian bass in the brackish and freshwater. That’s the kind of location that kayak anglers’ dreams are made of! And if the weather is good and you are comfortable in the yak offshore, these waters are teeming with plenty of reef species. A great location to launch your kayak is just five minutes to the south at a headland called Wenonah Headland. This spot has plenty of room for car and trailer parking, typical bush toilet facilities, a nice little wood fire BBQ area and 4x4 access to the beach, where there is a protected bay ideal for launching kayaks. This location is also used by the local deep sea fishing club (the Urunga Anglers) to launch boats, so the access to the beach is well maintained.

When fishing the inshore reefs you can expect to encounter snapper, pearl perch, kingfish, mulloway and samsonfish year round. And the warm northern currents from late December through to June usually bring with them plenty of pelagic species as well, including Spanish and spotted mackerel, northern bluefin tuna and even the odd black marlin. A quick Google Earth satellite search of the area

will show you just how much fishable reef is literally metres from the shoreline. You will not have to paddle or peddle far at all before you start fishing. The gear I recommend to take offshore is a fast action 7’ 10-20lb rod matched to a 4000 size spin reel. Anything similar in length for a nice long cast in the 10kg weight range is ideal for throwing plastics around in search of a nice big shallow water North

Coast knobby snapper. Plastics such as the Berkley Gulp 5” and 7” Jerk Shads are a personal favourite of mine to trick these fish also. A quality sounder with a GPS/map that also shows the water depth, or even one that can mark bait and fish, definitely makes life easier but it’s not essential. So whether you’re a bait or lure fisho, or even just looking for a relaxing kayak getaway, Urunga has plenty on offer for everyone!

Jason O’Brien with a Spanish mackerel caught out from Urunga.

FISHING & BOATING LIFESTYLE PROGRAM KIERAN REEKIE & ALAN BLAKE + many others talk fishing and boating

SAT / SUN 4am - 7am

RADIO 2SM

The Super Radio Network

hitide@2sm.com.au

13 12 69 NOVEMBER 2018

Haines Hunter 585R with Yamaha F200 4-stroke

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Steve Morgan s.morgan@fishingmonthly.com.au

We hope for windy days while boat testing, but not at the speed that Port Phillip Bay dished out while testing this Haines Hunter 585R (runabout),

fitted with a Yamaha F200 by Chelsea Yamaha. As one of the rigs that Rob Neely and his team set up for their stand at the Boat Show, I was keen on testing its Port Phillip Bay abilities in some breeze. The 30+ knots and washing-machine-like conditions put a pretty rapid

halt to that. Nonetheless, we were able to get the rig out on the water and eventually find a location where we could do some economy figures. To put the hull into perspective, I asked Rob why Haines Hunters were such a popular boat. “Lots of people buy a Haines Hunter and then never buy anything else,” Rob said. “It’s a combination of comfort, stability, economy and resale value.” Indeed, Rob had plenty of Haines Hunters in the showroom when we turned up at the dealership to pick up the test boats. SPECIFICATIONS Length Overall..... 6.0m Beam.................. 2.40m Hull Weight........ 950kg Transom..................25” Fuel...................... 230L Max hp................... 200

From above you can get a good idea of the amount of room in the sub 6m craft. There’s plenty of space there to get some serious fishing done. 96

NOVEMBER 2018

By nature, the runabout design is pretty simple. Runabouts are made with less cabin space and more cockpit to offer serious anglers plenty of fishing room down the back. The 585 definitely has plenty of space, with a 2.4m beam adding to the work area. The test boat was set up for fishing, with rocketlauncher style rod holders in the targa top, a large bait station and plenty of room in the side pockets. It was also fitted with the removable side door to

Top: As tested, this is the boat that you get for $113,900 – nearly 6m of Australianbuilt Haines Hunter 585R. With custom canopy and clears from Chelsea Yamaha, it’s well decked out for snapper fishing in the bay and beyond. Above: Both the hull and trailer are Melbourne-built. The tandem, galvanised Easytow features plenty of rollers to make drive on and off launching easy – even on windy days like the test day. help in loading the boat on the trailer and getting swimmers and divers out of the water when afloat. Often the importance of a good trailer under a hull is overlooked. The Aussie-made Easytow trailers work well under these hulls and the combination of wobble and keel rollers make it a pleasure to drive on and off, even in windy conditions like on the test day. Dual axles are a must for any rig around 2000kg and this rig will tow easily behind nearly all twin-cab 4WDs.

As expected, Yamaha’s F200 delivered exceptional economy, squeezing just under 2km/L burned at 4000rpm and 39km/h. Combine this with the 230L underfloor fuel tank and there’s a theoretical range of nearly 450km on a single fill. If that’s not enough for you, you’re going to need a bigger boat. At the helm, Yamaha’s new fly-by-wire digital throttle and shift impressed. It takes a little to get used to the sensitivity and smoothness of this new system, but once you do, you’ll never want to go

back to mechanical throttle cables again. Overall, you should look at the 585R if you’re more of a fisher than a family weekend kind of person. It’s designed with plenty of room and storage for all things piscatorial. But the significant other and kids will be comfortable nonetheless if they want to tag along. Haines Hunters aren’t cheap – the test rig weighed in at $113,900, however basic packages for this hull start at around $90,000. For more information visit www.haineshunter.com.au.

The 2.4m of beam combined with a deep vee make this a stable hull that rides well in the rough.

The R in the model name means ‘runabout,’ which translates to plenty of deck space and a smaller cabin. You can see the lid to the massive underfloor kill box between the helm and passenger seats.

The helm includes the Yamaha digital throttle and shift, which is very smooth and impressive. We’d like to be able to mount larger sounders flush into the dash, though.

Lenco trim tabs help you adjust the attitude when running heavy or uneven loads. With the lightly loaded boat we didn’t need them on the test day.

There’s enough cabin room to get out of the weather and it’s no problem to fit an optional portable toilet in there to keep the family happy.

The fold-out rear lounge isn’t full width, but can hold a couple of passengers. The rear bait station slides in and out.

There’s an optional, removable gunwale door and tons of room in the side pockets. The door slides out rather than being hinged. A clear anchor well door lets in a lot of natural light to the cabin.

Rob Neely reckons that the Yamaha F200s are ‘bulletproof’. We didn’t shoot it to find out, but they are definitely economical, giving a theoretical range of around 450km.

Talk to Chelsea Yamaha about custom stainless targa and canopy/clears combinations. They have a full trim shop in-house.

Call it a kill box or a wet storage area for your snorkeling gear. Whatever your bent, it’s a handy addition to the 585. NOVEMBER 2018