NSW Fishing Monthly October 2018 by Fishing Monthly

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October 2018, Vol. 24 No. 3

Contents BYRON COAST The Tweed 24 Ballina 26 Yamba 28 COFFS COAST Coffs Harbour 30 Nambucca 32 South West Rocks 33 MACQUARIE COAST The Hastings 34 Forster 36 Harrington-Taree 39 HUNTER COAST Erina 37 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 Botany Bay 20 Sydney South 22 Western Sydney 23 ILLAWARRA COAST Illawarra 44 Nowra 45 BATEMANS COAST Batemans Bay 46 Narooma 48 Merimbula 49

From the Editor’s Desk... Wow! Such a lot has happened since we went to print last month. It was the day we sent the magazine off to the printers that the government released its Marine Parks plans for Sydney. And testament to the motivation of recreational anglers and the speed that we could mobilise through social media (the week we went to print for this issue there were 45,000 members of the Stop the Lockout group), things happened quickly. And a few days before the October issue goes off to the presses we get the release from Niall Blair. “The NSW Government has today committed that there will be no loss of fishing rights or access under the proposed marine park sites put forward by the NSW Marine Estate Management Authority (MEMA).” That’s a pretty quick turnaround and the volume

of feedback was such that the announcement came before the end of the official consultation period. And it’s a pretty amazing result, considering that the nation’s anglers’ response to the Commonwealth Marine Parks issue (which has only recently been put to bed for the time being) was relatively under-whelming in comparison. I suppose that it really does need to become a case of ‘Not in My Back Yard’ before we get serious about becoming involved. On the whole, the tone of the protest was fantastic – loud and on-message. The administrators of the social media side of the group would have been working tirelessly to rein in the 5% of people who want to get nasty. As we all know, social media can get ugly quickly and overall, we all pushed in the right direction.

We do have to be careful about turning around people who already use their common sense. I remember in the marriage-equality debate, I, like most Aussies, were happy for anyone who wanted to get married to do so. The only time I considered voting “no” was when advocates that were pro-marriage-equality were such in-your-face obnoxious loudmouths that it made me re-consider my choice. Of course, Australia didn’t punish the majority for the vocal minority, but I thought that was the biggest weakness of the ‘Yes’ campaign. Loud, threatening in-your-face obnoxious loudmouths trying to ram their opinion down our throats. Let’s make sure that in any future campaigns we don’t make our supporters think we’re the obnoxious loudmouths!

What’s the best way to do that? Display a show of strength on our National Fishing Day. Gone Fishing Day is the 14th October. At the time of printing, there’s around 65 NSW-based events that have been listed on the official site (www.gonefishingday. org). But don’t be put off if there’s nothing near you – go fishing, take a pic, post it with #GFD2018 and tell the world about your day fishing. That’s the best way to celebrate the retention of our rights

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Basics for jigging along the NSW coastline COFFS HARBOUR

Elii English

The technique of jigging has been around as long as people have been catching fish, although modern jigging has evolved substantially since then. Whether you’re targeting back breakers in the depths of the abyss, or inshore pinnacles and reefs for a variety of table fish, the technique of jigging can be applied to almost every offshore scenario, with

such as snapper and pearl perch just to name a few. In this article I will explain the basics of offshore jigging to give you a starting point to navigate this particular style of fishing. Hopefully it will land you some dinner or maybe even a trophy! TECHNIQUES AND STYLE There are several dozen styles of jigs out there but they can be narrowed into two overarching techniques: mechanical/knife jigging and slow/fall style jigging. Each style can be used in a

Make use of your plotter and sounder to look for pinnacles, bait balls and ledges in this depth range. When you approach the reef, avoid motoring directly on top of where you intend to fish. Species such as snapper and mulloway are known to be shy, and the sound of the motor generally shuts them down in shallow waters. Give your intended spot a wide berth, figure out what angle you’re drifting, then make your drift. Anything over 1 knot is considered a relatively fast drift, and you

Pearl perch are very responsive to slow jigs. Adding a lumo skirt to your assist hook can double your catch rate.

This kingfish was taken on a Missing at Sea 150g Drunk Skunk. The crew was slow jigging for snapper and a larger bait ball came through with big arches under it, and the first drop on the knife jig produced! styles of jigs and techniques constantly evolving! These techniques have been proven to be highly effective on the inshore and offshore reefs of this great country. When starting out offshore jigging, the range of jigs, tackle, reels and rods can be overwhelming; especially with today’s market of fishing gear available. There are so many situations where a jig can be highly successful, such as schooled up kingfish in deep water or shallow water, micro-jigging for species

variety of scenarios or for a variety of species, however some styles are better suited to a particular species than others. Slow/fall jigging Slow/fall jigs are best for inshore pinnacles and table fish, but can also used be for larger pelagic or sportfish, depending on conditions. This technique is generally used in depths between 15-60m, with species such as snapper, pearl perch and mulloway responding well to jigs in this depth.

may need a sea anchor to slow you down, however if you don’t have one sometimes just stepping up the jig weight can help. Anchoring should be avoided, as this causes you to fish vertically, reducing the area in which you fish. Drifting enables you to cover as much ground as possible, and is therefore considered superior and more effective. When it comes to the technique, it can differ from day to day, but reading your sounder is a key factor. If

the fish are sitting high on the sounder, simply match that depth with the retrieve of your jig. A slow fall jig works best with an outwards roll with the wrist, moving the rod back towards your body, picking up the slack and repeating. You’ll find it easier to repeat this action before you have contact with the jig (while your line is slack), otherwise you’ll just be dragging it through the water rather than ‘jigging’ it. Snapper, pearl perch and mulloway will generally feed on the ocean floor, so keep your jig down there! Keeping the jig in the bottom third of the water will help target these fish. Moving the jig upwards from the bottom to the top third of the overall water depth, then dropping it back down is most effective. For example, if you’re fishing in 15m of water, start your jig on the bottom and jigging it up 5m off the bottom before dropping it back. This takes practice, but there’s no point fishing 15m under the boat when you’re fishing a 50m pinnacle and the fish are on the bottom. Current and wind should be taken into account when

drifting. Having a wide range of weights in your bag is key! Generally in 15-30m of water, jigs could range from 20-60g, depending on the strength of the current and wind speed.

current and wind are strong and in the same direction, stepping up your weight will be necessary, as this will almost double your drift speed depending on the day. In terms of outfits, this technique has some more options compared to mechanical and knife jigging, and with light line and lighter rods you can have a lot of fun. Thin PE braids are essential. PE 1.5-3 is perfect. You can either use a spin set up around the 5000 size or a small overhead, preferably with a jigging handle. Match the rod to what PE line you’re using. The length is up to you and what you’re comfortable with. If you’re new to fishing, starting with a rod around 6’3” is ideal. Mechanical/knife jigging  Mechanical/knife jigging can be an effective but more difficult style for the NSW coastline and other parts of the country. The technique is mainly used in deeper water when fishing reefs

This amberjack was taken over gravel on a slow fall jig while fishing for pearl perch on 30lb! Expect anything when fishing 60m or more.   In depths of 40-60m, between 80-120g is essential. You want a slow fall, but not so slow that you’re not getting to the mark on time. If the

and shoals. These jigs are better in 60-100m of water for larger sportfish such as kingfish, amberjacks and samsonfish, but you can

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Snapper are sometimes tricky when fishing with jigs. This guy was taken on a Palms Slow Fall left in the rod holder. Sometimes the motion of the swell is enough.

still catch snapper and other common reef species on these larger style jigs in deep water. In these depths, the minimum weight that should be used is somewhere between 150-300g, depending on the current and wind speed. Some days, however, you will find an 80-100g jig will work as well. It’s always good to have a few options in your bag and some back-ups in case you get smoked! When fishing for kingfish, amberjacks and samsonfish, sounding them is key. If your sounder isn’t showing feeding fish off the bottom or mid-water, you’re going to

have a very sore back by the end of the day, as dropping too many jigs down can be painful. Focus on finding the fish rather than fishing hard. On these deeper reefs the fish are not so prone to being motor shy. This means you can do a few runs over a spot to figure out where they’re sitting before doing a drift. When targeting these fish, it’s always a good idea to have live bait on board. In deep water, a live bait will find the fish faster than a jig, and once you’ve found them, send the jigs down. This technique can be a game changer, as you can find fish

A tuskfish is not your average jig target, but a delicious by-catch nonetheless.

faster and save your arms. When it comes to the technique, it can differ depending on what the fish are feeding on and how aggressive they are at the time. Starting off with a fast jig is always best. Drop your jig to the bottom and have a constant jig to the top. As with slow jigging, try to jig the rod with slack line. This saves your back, because you’re not dragging the heavy jig through the water. Some days the fish may be timid, and a slower jig technique with more action will be most effective. When the fish are like this, it’s always a good idea to have some heavy slow fall jigs in your bag. Similar to slow jigging, you should only fish the zone where fish are showing on your sounder. Fish smarter, not harder! You should always pay attention to your drop, as many fish will take a jig while it’s falling. You can either pinch the line to feel it on the descent, or just watch the spool. If you see a sudden stop and you’re not on the bottom, or the line starts peeling off much faster, you’ve probably hooked up! Because these fish are larger and fight hard, you’ll need a half decent set-up to stop them and make the jigging a little less painful.

An assortment of jigs you’ll need for a day offshore jigging. This should be all you need, unless you lose a few… It all comes down to what weight you’re using and what fish you’re chasing. If you’re just getting into it, a 10,000 sized reel (depending on the brand) with a slow gear ratio will be best. Because a 10,000 or bigger reel has such a big bail arm, it grabs a lot more line than smaller reels with the same gear ratio are able to. Look for something around a 5:2.1 or 6:2.1. You’ll want to be fishing a PE 5-8 line, so look for something that has the capacity to hold enough line in deep water and enough line to fight a fish. Match the rod with the PE line and jig weight you’re using. Look for something a touch shorter than your

slow jigging rod, as there is less movement of the jig needed. Generally between 5’6”-5’10” is perfect and ensures you don’t overwork your back! CONDITIONS AND READING THE FISH Weather conditions and tide play an important role in offshore fishing. Obviously, the swell and wind can stop you from reaching deep water spots, but more importantly, tide, moon phase and atmospheric pressure can make a significant difference to your day. Tide is most important, as almost all offshore species like a run-in tide or a tide change. Snapper, mulloway

and kingfish are most responsive to an incoming tide and tide change. They bite hard on the run-in, and some of my best offshore jigging days have been on a run-in tide up to a tide change. Being where you want to be on that incoming and tide change is very important. Being familiar with multiple fishing locations is also important. Fish might be shut down on one reef, but biting hard 2km away on another reef. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to have a few locations in play if your first doesn’t work out. You can fish at any time of day, as long as you’re in the right depth for that time of day. Starting in the mornings in 15-30m and progressively moving to deeper spots every hour or two (depending on the target species) is an effective approach. Keep working deeper and you’ll find the fishing will stay hot, but if you stay in shallow it might shut down. If you’ve caught fish in a spot early in the morning and it starts to shut down, simply move to a deeper mark. Reading the tides and having a plan around tide changes can change an average day offshore to an exceptional day. A good tide is usually complemented by a good moon phase as To page 10

OCTOBER 2018

From page 9

well. Snapper are the most affected by a full moon, and they can shut down during the day. Mulloway, on the other hand, can favour a full or new moon, as these bring big tides and a good tide change.

JIGS AND ACCESSORIES There is such a wide range of jigs on the market these days, it can be hard to select a handful and build a set that will suit your needs. Three major factors should be considered when selecting a jig: colour quality, concave

catch you more fish and save you time and money. When selecting a colour, you essentially want to match the hatch, which simply means to match what your target species is feeding on. If you’re slow jigging for snapper, pearl perch and mulloway, there are three main colour choices: pink, blue and lumo. Look for the ones with lots of flash. For knife jigs, I use the same colours, with a touch more silver or green. You want to pay attention to the back side of the jig, as some brands will cheap out and only paint half the jig to keep their production costs low. Secondly, for slow jigging, look for a jig designed with a nice concave curve on either

side of the jig. These will be grooves or crosses in the jig, giving it a flutter action on the sink, which is ideal. This isn’t necessary when selecting a knife jig, however, as you want the jig on the bottom and back up as quickly as possible. When it comes to terminal tackle for slow jigs, you want to look for dual hooks. Assist hooks can be expensive if the jig doesn’t come with them. Anything with extra flash on the hook is almost essential when slow jigging. Tying your own flash on with thread works really well, and even adding a lumo squid skirt can almost double your catch some days, especially in deep water where the extra attraction works really well.

Mulloway are another species that can be responsive to jigs in the right conditions. This one was taken just before a high tide change on the new moon.  It’s no secret that most fish like a rising or high barometer reading. Some species can be highlyaffected by a sudden drop or low air pressure. For example, mulloway and snapper will shut down in a low pressure system, so when the weather favours a good day offshore but the barometer is low, start deeper than you usually would. This can improve your catch rates and your day.

design and the terminal tackle you get with the jig, depending on the style of jig you are buying. The quality of the paint and the actual colour itself is always important. Unfortunately, you can only know the quality of the paint from word of mouth, reviews or when you use the jig. You want the lifespan of your jig to be worth it, without the paint chipping or fading too soon. This will eventually

Big snapper are lots of fun on jigs. The Shimano Lucanus jigs are always a great option when left sinking out the back. This guy was taken on the drop, and closing the bail arm on this big fish was tricky!

Sending live baits down soon found this fish and many others when fish couldn’t be sounded. This one was taken mid-water on a Samaki Choona 150g. This isn’t as important for bigger knife jigs, as the added flash or skirt can drag through the water when jigging, making it harder to work. After a full day you will notice the difference to your arms. Look for strong hooks with the knife jigs; most come with decent hooks. Anything with 200lb plus Dacron is necessary. Finally, always remember to have confidence in what you use. If you’re ever wondering what you’re doing wrong or just want some handy hints, remember you can jump straight onto YouTube and check out heaps of footage! CONCLUSION   A good day jigging can be some of the most fun

you can have on the water, with multiple hook-ups on big kingfish, snapper, and other monsters from the deep. Fishing is all about flexibility, so remember to read the weather conditions on the day and be ready to adjust your fishing locations and strategies. Just because you have had success with a particular technique before, doesn’t mean it will work again. Consider your target species, the depth you’re fishing in and the type of jig you’re using. Practice with different styles of jigs and jigging techniques, and if something isn’t working, switch it up. Have fun and always remember to set those hooks!

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Cooking

Barramundi, skordalia mash potato and salsa verde SYDNEY

Andrew Humphries

METHOD For the skordalia mashed potatoes peel and cut in quarters all the potatoes

and place in a pot of salted water and bring to the boil. Once boiled, simmer for 10-15 minutes or until potatoes are cooked. While the potatoes are cooking blitz the garlic and olive oil in a food processor until the

garlic is finely pureed with no large chunks. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain and mash them and mix through the garlic, olive oil, butter, chopped parsley and season. For the salsa verde place

basil, parsley and capers in the food processor and blend until smooth. Add in the olive oil, lemon juice and season with salt and pepper and blend again to emulsify. Lightly score the

barramundi skin and season with salt to crisp the skin. In a medium-hot pan add oil and place the barra skin side down for 2-3 mins, checking to make sure it isnâ€™t burning. If it is starting to get too dark, remove the

pan from the heat. Once you have got the crisp skin, turn over the fish and cook on a low heat for about 4-5 mins. You can also serve with some steamed asparagus or broccolini.

INGREDIENTS Skordalia mash ingredients 600g potatoes cut into quarters 2 cloves garlic 100ml olive oil 100g butter 2 sprigs parsley chopped salt and pepper to taste Salsa verde ingredients Â˝ cup olive oil 1 cup picked parsley 1 cup picked basil 2 teaspoons capers 1 lemon juiced salt and pepper to season 4 x barramundi fillets about 150-200g each

6 54

Making the salsa verde in the food processor.

Once it starts turning golden brown around the sides it is time to flip the fish.

OCTOBER 2018

The basil, olive oil, parsley capers and lemon for the salsa verde.

The fresh barramundi fillets. If buying the barra fillets, check to see that the flesh is firm and intact. If it looks waterlogged it has probably been frozen.

The skordalia mash seasoned and with the parley mixed in.

The potatoes simmering away for the skordalia mash.

Cooking the barra fillets skin side down in the pan.

The finished product ready to eat.

ELIMINATOR Durability meets functionality

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Golden Perch

A trip to Windamere is pure gold WINDERMERE

Jacko Davis

Spring marks the Murray cod season closure, but luckily for many keen freshwater anglers, this period coincides with the prime time to target golden perch, or yellowbelly, in our freshwater impoundments.

be very sluggish and will often be found schooled up in deep areas, especially amongst timber. The result of the chain reaction of life throughout the ecosystem gets the fish in the mood to feed and move about more freely, in particular up into the shallower margins of the lake where the weed and abundant bait is present. This

powered sites and plenty of unpowered camping space around the park and edge of the dam close to the dual lane boat ramp. If the fish don’t cooperate or you want to see what else the region has to offer, you won’t be disappointed. Mudgee is quite a ‘hip’ township with plenty of great cafes, shops and of course wineries. The

Can you see why they call them footballs? Giving the cod a wellearned break and the chance to breed means our gear needs to be downgraded to interest some of these freshwater ‘footballs’. Spring can be a great time to be on the water, with cool nights and warm sunny days, ensuring water temperatures will be on the

movement is why spring fishing for yellowbelly can be so fantastic, and there is no better place to do it then at Windamere Dam. WINDAMERE Windamere Dam is located a short drive from Mudgee, NSW, and around two hours drive from

region is famous for its highquality wine production and it’s well worth a tour or two. THE FISH Alcohol aside, Windamere’s main attraction for most anglers by far is its abundance of oversize golden perch. For many years Windamere has been

and methods that anglers regularly use, but there are a few techniques that have proved bulletproof for many years and normally at least one of these will prove fruitful. The technological advancements of boats, lures, lines and most importantly electronics makes locating and targeting these fish a lot less complicated. Having a side-imaging capable unit on-board is a real bonus when locating the fish, but is not the be-all-end-all. TACKLE A light spin combo will cover most lure selections and scenarios. A 2000-2500 size reel matched with a 2-4kg rod will handle any yellowbelly, while still giving you a good feel and comfort throughout the days fishing. Line is one of the more important factors to get right. Like most situations, the lighter the line the more interest your offering will receive and it’s no different at Windamere. Personally, I opt for a 6lb braided mainline matched with a 6lb fluorocarbon leader of around two rods length. In some cases, like when fishing heavily-timbered areas, I will up the leader to 8lb, but that’s as high as I’ll go. For some, this may seem a little on the light side, especially when you’re in combat with plump perch that are consistently 8lb and more. But with a quality drag set properly and a light forgiving rod, persuading these footballs into the boat is relatively easy. We’ve found over the years when fishing Windamere that our results have significantly increased as we have dropped our leader size. TECHNIQUES Edges With the water temperatures rising and the fish becoming more active,

A quick photo before release for this lovely golden. the edge bite is the major allure when making the journey to Windamere in spring. Fish will commonly be found in 2-5m of water around the perimeter of the waterway. If you are without a sounder, ‘blind casting’ the banks is definitely the way to go. Yellowbelly in spring will often show up on featureless banks many would turn a blind eye to, but if you can find a few additional drawcards on a bank, your chances will increase. The two Ws are the key here, being wind and weed. Wind-blown banks and points at Windamere are the number one spot in spring, with large numbers of hungry fish congregating to these areas. By either sounding areas for fish or by ‘hit and running’ different banks, it won’t be long until you start to pick a few fish up. If these wind-blown banks coincide

with weed beds, then you can almost guarantee you’ve hit a ‘gold mine’. Proven lures in these shallower margins start with blades, in particular the Ecogear ZX40 in ‘dark knight’ colour. For some reason, the fish seem to respond really well to black coloured lures in the lake. Any small blade around the 40mm size will be effective, but the ZX40 has proven itself year after year to be a very reliable bait when fishing Windamere. The beauty of these lures is the assist hooks, which resist the Windamere weed a lot better than regular treble hooks. Many anglers opt to add these assist hooks in place of trebles on other lures as well. The best way to fish these blades is by allowing the lure to reach the bottom before commencing a slow lift and drop retrieve back to the boat. I like a long

This is what Windamere is famous for – 60cm of plump perch. rise along with the fishing. As these water temperatures begin to increase, they spark life into the entire ecosystem, starting at the bottom of the food chain. The weed beds kick into gear, which gets the small creatures like small fish, shrimp and yabbies on the move. The next to travel are the dominant predators of the system – the ones we want to catch. Yellowbelly throughout the cool winter period can 60

OCTOBER 2018

Western Sydney. This makes it quite an accessible location for the majority of the state, especially if you plan on the spending a few days or the weekend there – which I recommend you do. It’s an excellent place to bring the family along, with plenty of great facilities at the park to accommodate all ages. Mark and Deidre, who run the park at Windamere, are very friendly and approachable. There are cabins available,

regarded as Australia’s premier golden perch impoundment, and I don’t think many would argue with its ability to continue to produce consistently exceptional fishing. These fish are commonly known as ‘footballs’, and it’s pretty easy to see why. Perch in excess of 60cm and 5kg are consistent captures at Windamere, with the average fish above the 50cm mark. Over the years the fish have seemed to clue into lures

Keeping an eye on the sounder at all times will help you find what the fish are doing on the day.

Golden Perch pause of around 10 seconds between lifts while keeping a close eye on the slack line. For pretty sizeable fish, these yellowbelly can be quite finicky and will often just tap the lure ever so slightly,

rolling technique can be really applicable when the fish are suspending up off the bottom. These fish are hard to target with a blade, as you will generally be fishing below the active zone.

You’ll be blown away at the girth and width of these fish. so you’ve got to keep your head in the game. Lipless crankbaits are another effective choice that have accounted for a large percentage of captures over

Other lures like jerkbaits and spinnerbaits can work well on these suspending fish. Often you will locate these suspending fish on your sounder, which takes a

and due to their presence, a recent lure trend is the skirted jig. Big in the US bass scene, these skirted jigs can be quite an effective imitation of these crawfish, and have started to account for a few fish in Windamere in the last couple of years, especially along the edges. A lift and pause retrieve is the go with these lures, and they are really effective on the edge of weed beds. Timber A technique that’s all the rage at the moment with yellowbelly fishing is rolling soft plastics amongst timber and for good reason – it’s very effective! It’s a year-round technique that is fool proof and will undo a yellowbelly in any impoundment in Australia. Rolling soft plastics up the side of dead timber is a deadly tactic. If you struggle finding fish on the edges throughout spring, your best bet is to head to these lumber infested locations. A sounder will help you decipher the good trees from the less fruitful ones, but if you jump from tree to tree you’ll eventually stumble across some fish. It’s a

Windamere is a great camping option, and an iconic location with good facilities. 1/8-1/2oz, depending on the depth. From there it is just a slow roll back from the bottom to the boat. If you locate the fish at a certain depth then it can pay to ‘bob’ your offering in this zone, however a slow roll will prove successful on most occasions. Plastics of choice vary, but there is no denying the effectiveness of a black 3” Gulp Minnow Grub. Other grub style baits in this size range will work, as will creature and crawfish style plastics. GET AROUND IT Windamere is commonly

known as ‘Windy’ and there’s a good reason for that. Some spring days can be magical, while others make you wish you brought your kite surfing gear instead. For this reason, it can pay to plan your trip around good weather windows, but then again, any time on the water is better than sitting at work or on the lounge, isn’t it? The fish in this lake are truly world-class for their species and the sheer size of them needs to be witnessed first-hand to be believed. They’re called footballs due to the abnormal proportions they reach and the amount

of fat they pack on. For this reason, it’s logical to practice catch and release with these bigger model fish. Taking care when handling them by supporting their weight is critical to post release survival. They are trophies, so make sure you get a quick few photos and then send them on their way to make another angler’s day. So, it’s time to put away that cod gear or give the saltwater a break for the weekend, and venture to this iconic location. Spring at Windamere can provide some lifelong memories, so go give it a crack!

Yellas are the perfect species to target while we give the cod a well-earned break. the years. The benefit of these lures is you can fish them either by hopping and pausing along the bottom or by slow rolling the lure back to the boat. This slow

lot of the guesswork out of it. Again, black seems to be the most productive lipless crankbait colour. The lake is home to plenty of shrimp and yabbies

simple technique that is best done by tying a rope from the front of your boat to a branch of the tree you are fishing. Drop a soft plastic down on a jighead between

Ultralight Outboard Motors For kayaks, canoes and very light boats With a total weight of 8.9kg including battery, the Torqeedo Ultralight won’t limit your paddling performance, but when called on it can give you the right push against the current, against the wind, or be called on to save your tired arms. Technology that is clean and state-of-the-art Find your closest dealer: email: web: phone:

torqeedo@powerequipment.com.au www.powerequipment.com.au 1800 069 469

Windamere can be rather brisk in the mornings, so be prepared. OCTOBER 2018

Hickson takes Lake Macquarie win

STORM

Kris Hickson re-affirmed his position as Australia’s number-one ranked bream angler. It seemed like deja vu for the second last round of the Costa BREAM Series, the Daiwa Lake Macquarie qualifier. Kris Hickson weighed two magnificent limits to take first prize and a hefty winners’ cheque. Hickson admitted that he ‘junk fished’ all weekend. Junk fishing is about having a dozen rods on your deck with a dozen different baits and picking up the one that you reckon will get the bite on any particular cast. Illustrating this perfectly was in the post-winning interview, where Kris was asked to grab his winning bait – he picked up five… Hickson rotated between a 1/6oz Tackle Tactics blade, an HWS rigged Ecogearaqua (in white), a small, black Smith Camion shallow crankbait, a clear Stick Minnow and the ubiquitous Cranka Crab. With 11 different rods on the deck, Hickson had

Plenty of cash, bonuses and kudos comes the way of an ABT event winner. Here Kris Hickson tastes the spoils for the second event in a row. trouble picking out his favourite, however he settled on a 7’ Daiwa rod

fitted with the Daiwa Sol LT, 8lb Daiwa J-Braid Grand and 4lb Daiwa J-Thread leader. “The Sol LT’s have the best drag I’ve used in a Daiwa reel – I can’t recommend them highly enough for the sort of fishing we do,” Hickson said, “and the J-Braid is super thin and

a great braid, especially for the price, I’ve been using the test product for the last 12 months between 6 and 50lb and it’s just getting better and better.” He only landed five legal fish on the second day, but two of them were real quality and the 4.02kg limit easily propelled him to the win.

Above: Each day Kris Hickson landed a couple of quality kicker fish to distance himself from the rest of the field. Below: To the victor goes the spoils.

Here’s the Daiwa J-Braid Big Bream winner, Michal Colotourous’ 1.52kg kicker.

DAIWA J-BRAID BIG BREAM It’s rare when a Lake Macquarie Big Bream doesn’t top 1.5kg and Michael Colotourous’ 1.52kg monster fit the pattern nicely. It ate an Ecogear blade in open water and earned him an extra $500.

TOP 10 BOATERS

Visit www.abt.org.au for entry forms. For general enquiries phone ABT on (07) 3387 0888. 80

OCTOBER 2018

Scan the QR codes to hear the winners’ interviews and watch the highlights packages from each day.

Place Angler

Fish (kg) Weight Payout

1 2

10/10 10/10

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Kris Hickson Steve Morgan

7.94kg 7.45kg

$3500 + $250 Mercury $1500 + $150 Mercury + $200 Pro Russell Babekuhl 10/10 7.07kg $1250 + $100 Mercury Cam Whittam 8/10 6.19kg $1000 Jason Mayberry 10/10 5.96kg $900 Brad Hodges 8/10 4.44kg $800 Todd Riches 7/10 4.41kg $700 Scott Towner 7/10 4.13kg $600 Michael Colotourous 5/10 4.09kg $500 + $500 Big Bream Tim Vickers 7/10 4.03kg $500 For full result listings, see www.abt.org.au

Morgan sought shallow bream for second Brisbane’s Steve Morgan took the lead in the BASS Cat BREAM Angler of the Year race with a second place finish. Catching most of his fish on Cranka Crabs on shallow boats and adding a few key fish on

Scan the QR codes to hear the winners’ interviews and watch the highlights packages from each day.

shallow, black crankbaits on the flats, Morgan revelled in the gusty conditions and credited the performance to the nasty weather. “At the start of this event, I’d have bet that this tournament was going to be won deep, but as it happened, the wind blew hard and the fish bit shallow. All three of my kilo-plus kicker fish came in less than 5ft of water,” Morgan said. Morgan relied on two baits for his bag, a heavy, olive Cranka Crab and a shallow, black Jackall Chubby. He fished the crankbait on 2lb Yamatoyo Spinning Fluoro and the Crab on 3lb Toray Bawo fluorocarbon spooled on a Daiwa Mebaru ‘crab rod’ and an old Gekkabijin reel. “The more I fish the Daiwa crab rods, the more I like them,” Morgan explained,

“they’re long and soft enough to really cushion the line and those small, #14 hooks that the crabs use, and I’ve found that my accuracy casting isn’t affected at all.” “When it’s your time to do well in events, the big fish stick. I landed the three big ones that I hooked and Kris landed four of them. Lake Macquarie is increasingly a wonderful venue to catch big yellowfin bream and a favourite stop of the Costa BREAM Tour,” he said. There’s only two anglers left that can win the Bass Cat BREAM Angler of the Year race and that’s Morgan and Victorian Cam Whittam, and only four points separates the two. It will come down to how they finish at South West Rocks to decide the final placing.

BREAM SERIES

Steve Morgan live streamed his big fish catches – this one went 1.37kg on day 2 and shot him up into second place and into the AOY lead.

Cam Whittam’s Duffrods Big Bag was the basis for an epic day 2 comeback. He came from nowhere into 4th with a 4.63kg limit.

DUFFRODS BIG BAG Victorian Cam Whittam took the Duffrods Big Bag with a cracking 4.63kg bag of Lake Macquarie yellowfin on the second day of competition. He caught them cranking deep, brown Suji Chubbies on shallow weed and rock using a Duffrod Bream Multi Broken Bones (7’1”) with 16lb Sunline PE8 and a 3lb Bream Special FC Rock leader.

Simon Johnson claims maiden ABT BREAM win Simon Johnson was stoked to take his maiden ABT BREAM win at this event after a string of second and third places recently. It was particularly satisfying after only having fished at the venue once before. “We fished big, open flats both days, so it was a non-boater friendly place,”

Johnson said. “With the different winds blowing over the two days, I used plastics both days, but changed between 1/16oz, 1/12oz, 1/8oz and 1/8oz depending on the conditions.” On them he rigged an unnamed 2.5” motor oil coloured grub. Simon fished the bait on a 7’ Kistler KLX Lite 4-10lb

rod and a Daiwa Luvias 2004 reel spooled with 10lb Daiwa Tournament Evo 8 braid and a 4lb Sunline v-Hard leader and made long casts with the wind to cover ground. When asked what his tips were to budding non-boaters, he offered this sage advice. “Make every cast count. You only have a limited time to fish in these events

TOP 10 NON BOATERS Place Angler 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Fish(kg) Weight Payout

Simon Johnson 7/10 4.07kg Costas + prize pack Lindsay Pryke 7/10 5.96kg Prize Pack Stuart Walker 6/10 3.93kg Prize Pack Jeffrey Esperitu 6/10 3.7kg Prize Pack Richard Potter 7/10 3.51kg Prize Pack Mark Young 5/10 3.37kg Prize Pack Colin Wilson 5/10 3.06kg Prize Pack Grant Oliver 5/10 3.03kg Prize Pack Paul Langley 5/10 2.99kg Prize Pack Thomas McIntosh 5/10 2.76kg Prize Pack For full result listings, see www.abt.org.au

Simon Johnson was stoked to get his first ABT BREAM win at Lake Macquarie. and more time you spend sitting down and rigging rods, the less chance you have of catching fish. Time is precious and the more casts you make the better chance you have of catching. And if you be good to your boater, they will be good to you,” he concluded.

Scan the QR codes to hear the winners’ interviews and watch the highlights packages from each day. OCTOBER 2018

WHAT’S NEW FISHING BLACK MAGIC KLT HOOK

ZMAN MIDNIGHT OIL COLOUR

Black Magic’s new KLT hook has further strengthened their premium hook range. Like the DX Point before it, the KLT is made in Japan from high carbon steel, and is coated with a super slip, non-stick PTFE coating, just like the coating used on nonstick frying pans). This hook adds another option to their most popular hook pattern – the KL hook. It features the classic Black Magic KL circle hook pattern but with a non-offset point, meaning it meets IGFA recommendations, particularly for use in tournaments. The PTFE coating means less resistance which assists penetration and prolongs the life of the hook. It also ensures they are highly corrosion resistant. Black Magic KLT hooks are manufactured in Japan from high carbon steel ensuring superb strength. They’re available in sizes 1/0, 3/0, 4/0, 5/0, 6/0, 7/0 and 8/0, and in two pack sizes – small and economy. www.blackmagic.com

Following a heap of angler feedback and suggestions, comes one of the most exciting new colours in Z-Man’s range of plastics. There are two colours that consistently win bream tournaments, bloodworm and motor oil, and these colours appeal to different patterns in fish behaviour. These two colours have been combined to give that attractive and subtle translucency that shut down fish just love, and the reflective sheen that causes fish to react. With midnight oil, an angler can give the fish the flash of the bloodworm colour, combined with the high UV of motoroil, and this colour is now available across the entire of the Z-Man soft plastics range! If you want to get that extra edge on the fish on a tough day, make sure you stock up on this exciting new colour, and be amazed at the results. www.tackletactics.com.au

HALCO SLIDOG 150

YAMASHITA EGI OH K

If you’re into launching a lure over the horizon and looking for that bonejarring, nerve-rattling strike as you rip it back, the all-new Halco Slidog is just the ticket. Halco has developed an ultra tough, sinking, sliding stickbait that is sure to give you a workout from all the GTs, XOS mackerel, large tuna and many others that try to take it home to their trophy cabinet. Featuring heavily reinforced side walls, Halco’s legendary ultra tough 7xx fish rings and Mustad 7/0 inline singles for great holding potential, the Slidog 150 comes with a bite that matches its bark. The lure is 150mm long and weighs 85g, allowing long casts on medium/heavy weight casting outfits, avoiding the need to take a boat into areas that might have you risking life and limb. Look for the all-new Slidog 150 at all good tackle outlets. www.halcotackle.com.au

HOBIE MANUAL INFLATABLE VEST

The new 2019 Hobie Manual Inflatable 150 Vest (Yoke) is rated for offshore use while wearing foul weather clothing. The design is very lightweight and extremely cool. The newly designed collar folds down the back of your neck and shoulders, eliminating pressure on the neck and lower head. The yoke is manually inflated by pulling a small cord that activates the replaceable CO2 cylinder in the side of the vest. The Velcrosecured receptacle allows for easy access to the cylinder for replacement and for servicing, or for additional manual inflation of the PFD after the manual cord has been activated. Features include: 150 rated (40kg plus); comfortable slim multi fit (up to 5XL); mesh yoke back strap (helps prevent the collar riding up the back of your neck); easy access storage pocket (great for keys, phone etc.); whistle; water resistant headphone rubber port hole; 25mm D-ring for switch killer tether; accessory attachment straps; interior pocket; UML Pro Sensor (includes armed status indicator); self service; cylinder re-arm kit; and fishing comp key tag/key tag clip. www.hobie.com.au 84

OCTOBER 2018

Yamashita have released a new colour range in their top-of-the-line K series of squid jigs. The K body is tuned to have the best stable sinking posture, and it excels in rough conditions where other jigs struggle to maintain a stable fall. Features of the Egi Oh Q K include the Hydro Fin (attached at the rear of the jig for improved stability when sinking); Hydro Eyes (flat eyes with Keimura pupil and glow edge); Hydro Sinker and TIN sinker (tin sinker with tuning holes for adding or reducing weight); Warm Jacket (thermo storage cloth that transfers light into heat); Hydro Body (pentagon design for increased stability when sinking); tuned double crown hooks (the back crown of stainless steel hooks are opened wider for improved hook-ups); and G-Flash lateral line (strong tape running down each side for increased flash and appeal). Egi Oh Q K jigs are available in 10 colours in sizes 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5, with shallow and super shallow options available in size 3.5. www.ejtodd.com.au

SUFIX X8 BRAID

PRODUCT GUIDE

4 5

The new X8 braid from Sufix is an 8-carrier braid constructed of thin HMPE Japanese fibres. It’s a super strong, thin braided line that has high abrasion resistance and superb knot and shock strength. This soft and silky smooth line has low friction through the rod guides, resulting in silent performance and long, accurate casts. R8 precision braiding technology with a high tension weaving process results in a round, supple and smooth braided line with consistent diameter and quality. Easy handling, X8 is designed for both casting and spinning reels. Currently available in an eye-catching hot yellow, it comes in breaking strains from 6lb to 50lb in 150yd spools and 10lb to 65lb in 300yd lengths. Sufix X8 braid will be on sale in all leading tackle stores from September 2018. www.rapala.com.au

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PRODUCT GUIDE

WHAT’S NEW FISHING DUO HYDRA 220

Long and lean and designed as the ultimate sinking stickbait for large predators, the new Duo Rough Trail Hydra 220 is the lure to pack for your next offshore adventure. Slim-profiled and with a fixed weight in the tail to maximise casting performance and enhance its action, the Hydra 220 features a dynamic skipping action when worked across the surface, while a twitch and jerk retrieve will see it move from side to side to enhance strikes. A hyper realistic garfish imitation when worked across the surface, the Hydra is ultra long (220mm) in length to reduce fishing swallowing and biting off the lure, while its tailheavy 58.2g body weight allows it for long, tangle free casting on the water. If you’re looking to call up the predators to the surface, the new Duo Rough Trail Hydra 220 is the lure to reach for. www.daiwafishing.com.au

SHIMANO OCEA JIGGER REELS

MCLAUGHLIN’S ADVANCED BERLEYS 10 McLaughlin’s have 77 years of bait experience, and this has been used to produce an impressive range of berleys in the newly developed Advanced Formula range. All Advanced Formula berleys are scented with secret formula flavours before being impregnated with colour formulas, which dye the pellets in selected colours. This combination means that when you put the berley into the water it not only attracts the fish, but the colour creates a trail in the water. This trail allows you to easily see where your berley is and the direction it’s going in, so you can fish directly in the berley trail. This then allows you to make full use of the berley and not have to guess what the tide and wind influences are doing to the berley. The Advanced Formula range comes in a range of flavours and pellet configurations, for maximum effectiveness on different target species and locations. www.jurofishing.com

SUGARDEEP 90 FLOATING BOOST

The new Ocea Jigger from Shimano has made an extreme make-over compared to the beloved ’11 Ocea Jigger. This flagship of jigging reels comes with a host of exciting features such as the Infinity Drive and Micro Module gear, which results in 60% reduction of the reeling resistance compared to the old model, and a very smooth retrieve. The newly designed handle is specially engineered to provide a firm grip, and to provide the ability to give extra power without losing grip. The combination of the Hagane body and S-Compact body results in an immensely strong and lightweight (595g) jigging reel. And due to the eight shielded A-RB ball bearings and X-Protect it is highly salt water resistant and durable. With a drag of 10kg, fighting the biggest fish is not a problem anymore. For more information on this and other new releases from Shimano, visit their website or look them up on Facebook (facebook.com/ Shimano.Fish) or Instagram (@shimano.fish). www.shimanofish.com.au

The Sugarpen Deep 90 has the same profile as the Sugar Deep 90 Barra Tuned, but incorporates an innovative slide system to cast further and more accurately. Unlike the SugarDeep 70 and 90, it is also a floating rather than a suspending lure. The unique weight system uses a sliding tungsten weight on a rod assembly moulded into the body of the lure. When casting, the weight moves to the back of the lure, delivering greater distance. When the lure is retrieved, the weight moves forward along the rod to weight the lure level when paused. Like the SugarDeep 90 Barra Tuned, the SugarDeep 90 Floating Boost Shaft Glide has a tight wobble that will dive to 2.5m, making it ideal for impoundment and estuary fishing for a variety of species. For more information on this and other new releases, visit the Bassday Australia website, or check them out on Facebook at facebook. com/BassdayAus. www.bassday.com.au

DEPS NZ CRAWLER

DAIWA BEEFSTICK

The 134mm DEPS NZ Crawler is one of the largest Japanese surface crawlers on the market. The lure’s jointed movement draws big predators from afar, and the distinctive sound can be adjusted via the two screws within the wings or by adjusting the wings themselves. The NZ Crawler can paddle back on a fast retrieve, which gives an almost vertical action on the wings as it goes through its arch, or the retrieve can be slowed right down for greater time within a strike area without compromising the action. The thick resin walls can take a lot of punishment, and DEPS have upgraded the NZ Crawler – along with all models coming into Australia – with larger, sturdier hooks and rings. This lure has been specially designed to entice predators that eat a diverse range of prey such as bats, rats, frogs, birds and lizards. The flash blade not only provides an attractant but also adds to the length of the lure. www.dogtoothdistribution.com.au

Tradition meets contemporary looks and styling with the release of the new Daiwa Beefstick. With homage to the traditional solid tip fiberglass rods of the past, Daiwa gives the much-loved workhorse a makeover. Featuring a matt black finish, the Beefstick has a graphite/glass butt, a carbon-wrap lower section, and a solid integrated tip, this is a series that will handle the rigors of angling, yet has the sensitive in design to deliver anglers unmatched feel for a rod of its price. Shaped, ultra sensitive custom EVA grips blend perfectly with the Beefstick’s reel seats, while a composite cork butt cap contrasts perfectly in looks with the matt black blank, for a modern touch of class. With 26 models available, there is a model available for nearly every conceivable scenario. If you’re looking for a modern twist on the rod that your grandfather had when you’re a child, the new Daiwa Beefstick is the range for you. www.daiwafishing.com.au

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

WHAT’S NEW FISHING ZEREK STREAM X

BASSDAY 13 SUGAPEN 58F

The Zerek Stream X is a beautifully crafted minnow lure that swims with an exaggerated beat to attract predators. At 6.5cm long, the Stream X is an easy casting 8g and sinks at rest, allowing anglers to work this minnow in tight country where trout, redfin and bass reside. But don’t think this lure is only suitable the freshwater rivers and lakes; the Stream X is built with high impact resistant ABS plastic and componentry that make it more than suitable for saltwater fishing. Species such as flathead, bream, tailor and salmon will find the small baitfish profile an easy to swallow meal. There are 13 proven colours in the range, from bright attractor patterns to the most realistic minnow colours you could ever want, giving this little gem of a lure a place in any smallwater tackle kit. www.wilsonfishing.com

SUFIX X8 BRAID

OCTOBER 2018

The Sugapen is synonymous with topwater fishing, with its iconic forward-facing cup and slender profile that perfectly mimics a fleeing prawn. Bassday has now increased the Sugapen range to include a 58mm length model. This new smaller size brings the range to a total of four lengths, all the way up to 120mm. The 58 casts perfectly due to its slimline profile which produces little wind resistance. The action is the same as the larger sizes but this has a more subtle presence. The lure can be wound flat out or with a pause and wind technique. The new model comes in all the current Sugapen colours and two completely new ones. A red tiger-striped clear and gold tiger-striped clear with a pink head. Check out the Bassday Facebook page (www.facebook.com/BassdayAus) for more information on new releases, catch photos and prize giveaways. www.bassday.com.au

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WILSON GRAPHWRAP RODS 17 The Wilson Graphwrap is a series of rods designed to be durable and go the distance. Designed on a graphite composite core with a solid glass tip, the Graphwrap series leaps beyond normal expectations with its custom designed, power-giving graphite outer spiral wrap. This unique spiral wrap gives these rods incredible strength, which adds to the durability of these tough, ocean thug busting rods. Designed in Australia to meet the demands of our harsh fishing environment, the Wilson Graphwrap series brings toughness, durability and user friendliness together in the one package. For more information on this and other new releases from Wilson Fishing, head to their website or like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LWilsonAndCo. www.wilsonfishing.com

WORK SHARP KNIFE 15 SHIMANO SHARPENERS How do you get the sharpest tool in the SLX

shed, to stay sharp when out fishing on your boat? Easy, just team up the Electric Knife and Tool Sharpener from Work Sharp with their Guided Field Sharpener and you have the perfect solution anywhere you go. The Electric Sharpener is a 240V powered sharpener that uses flexible abrasive belts just like the professionals. The easily replaceable grit belts give a perfect convex edge to any knife blade. Designed to cope with a heavyduty workload while delivering precision sharpening that won’t burn or damage blade steel. But how do you transfer that precision sharpening when out on the water or on a camping trip? The Guided Field Sharpener has two diamond plates, two ceramic rods, a leather strap, and the all-important sharpening guides for fast, easy and consistent sharpening. The fixed guides create a constant repetitive angle to ensure the smoothest, sharpest blade possible. Price: SRP $199 (electric), $67 (field sharpener) www.worksharptools.com.au

PRODUCT GUIDE

New for 2018, the SLX series is the latest addition to the ever-growing Shimano baitcaster range. This is a compact and highly versatile reel, suited to catching anything from bass through to barra. It features an aluminium Hagane Body, the same body size as the Curado 70, but offering the line capacity of a conventional 150 sized reel. Inside the SLX’s Hagane Body, durable brass gearing delivers reliable cranking power and three SUS bearings and one roller bearing means everything turns smoothly. Casting is made effortless with the adjustable 6-pin VBS brake system, making it ideal for a range of different fishing styles and casting preferences. A longer 45mm Throw Handle working in conjunction with two model options featuring gear ratios of 6.3:1 and 7.2:1 means that the slow and methodical lure worker and the angler who likes a bit of speed are well covered by the new SLX series. On top of this, max drag settings of between 5-5.5kg provides plenty of stopping power should it be needed. www.shimanofish.com.au

18 visit www.tacklejunkie.fish for the latest tackle news - AS IT HAPPENS!

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PRODUCT GUIDE

WHAT’S NEW FISHING

All hyped up by the Team Daiwa Hyper rod range Although I simply love fishing, I have to admit that I have become a little obsessed by the humble flathead. I blame the team here at Fishing Monthly when I arrived. They caught a lot of them and it was pretty tough not to get involved when most trips involved being connected to lots of fish in the 50cm+ category. My arsenal of rods to target them has gone from a single outfit to at least six, with a few failed outfits in between. I have been striving to find what I consider to be the perfect flathead outfit. The key features being: it must be a minimum of 7” long, have a rating in the 2-4kg or 2-5kg range and be a fast or medium fast taper (at worst it must be powerful enough to get that hook through the top jaw of a flathead). Cost in many ways is also a factor. There are plenty of top end rods that would be amazing to use, but flathead are a bread and butter species, and I don’t believe a $1000 outfit is required. Additionally, money saved on a rod means more can be put into a reel, which makes more sense to me. I have come close on several occasions, rods have been 85% there, but in the end the taper or power to bend ratio for me has not been right. Too stiff and the hook set is great, but the finesse at the end of the fight is lacking and fish are lost. Too slow a taper and

TESTED Final thoughts Have I found the perfect flathead rod? I am not prepared to say that as yet, but I am happy to say that I am closer than ever. It will definitely get plenty of use over the next few months, as it is prime flathead time here in South East Queensland. Aside from what I have already said, the one thing that the TD Hyper rod has changed my thinking on is Nano Technology based rods. You cannot question the additional strength, power and resilience Nano resins add to any blank, however in most cases this is at the expense of the taper of a rod. Certainly not the case with the TD Hyper rods and definitely something I prefer and look for in rods. Too see the full range of TD Hyper rods go to www.daiwafishing.com.au and check them out in your local Daiwa retailer. – Peter Jung

The author chose the TD Hyper 701LXS rod when looking for a rod to target flathead. He matched it with a Daiwa TD Sol III LT reel and is very happy with it so far. This also translates into the casting ability of the rod. Size 3.0 squid jigs and 3/8oz jigheads have been cast easily. One tip however is to ensure the hook keeper is kept facing downwards when you are casting. I have had the line loop and catch onto it when I haven’t, which can result in lost tackle. I love the fact that the keeper is there, but just have it facing down when you’re not using it. Value for money If how light the TD Hyper rods are is impressive then their value for money is exceptional. In my travels and during the obligatory visit to the local tackle store, I have consistently seen the TD Hyper rods selling for $129.99. This is not the price point I would expect to see the quality of this rod in. There is also a reasonable range of options within the TD Hyper range. There are 11 spin and 3 baitcast options covering the majority of your fishing needs.

The combination of HVF Nanoplus graphite and X45 blank technology create a dynamic blank with a taper that the author prefers.

Although purchased to target flathead, the TD Hyper’s first outing was out chasing squid. the hook set power diminishes and fish are lost (on larger fish) with the hooks not finding enough purchase. This is where the Team Daiwa Hyper rods come in. I am always on the look out for a distinctive looking rod with the above attributes and the TD Hyper series of rods caught my eye. A quick call to Grayson Fong (a Daiwa pro angler who is using them) to get the good oil on them convinced me that they were worth looking at. I decided on the 701LXS model and matched it with one of the new Daiwa Sol III LT reels. The first time I used the outfit wasn’t chasing flathead. I teamed up with Grayson and headed to the islands in southern Moreton Bay chasing tiger squid. Far from what I had purchased the outfit for, but the beauty of a 2-4kg outfit is that it translates to throwing lures for bass or jigs for squid. The rod

was christened on a stonker squid and has since done battle on a number of flathead. First impressions The TD Hyper rods seriously feel as light as a feather. I don’t have another rod in my gaggle of rods that gets close to the weight of the TD Hyper. Matched with the Sol III LT reel (also a lightweight design) and you have something that is pleasure to use all day every day. Power so far has not been an issue, with several solid flathead putting it through its paces. I am not quite so sure how to express this into words, but the power seems almost effortless. Much of the marketing around this rod range has been about the HVF Nanoplus graphite and X45 blank technology. The combination of the two technologies creating a lighter and more dynamic blank for the rods to be built from.

The castability of the 701LXS is exceptional. It comfortably casts a 3.0 squid jig or a 3/8oz jighead.

OCTOBER 2018

Trades, Services, Charter COFFS COAST

HOLIDAY RENTAL MACLEAY VALLEY COAST

CRESCENT HEAD HOLIDAY RENTALS

A U S T R A L I A

www.southwestrocksfishingadventures.com.au

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.

www.crescentheadholidayrentals.com.au

Email: holiday@crescentheadrealestate.com.au 6 MAIN ST, CRESCENT HEAD NSW 2440

Phone: 02 6566 0500

17’7” • Single axle Basscat trailer 115 hp Mercury 4 stroke 24v electric motor (Minn Kota or Motor Guide) 2 x sounders (Humminbird 597cxi HD Di or Lowrance HDS 5)

u Mid week packages from $420 p/p* u Weekend packages from $320 p/p*

*Minimum 6 people

On board our fully equiped 38ft Randell TRIFECTA Contact: David Hayman (Stumpee) Mobile: 0411 096 717 info@swrcharters.com.au

SYDNEY

Wangi Point Lakeside Holiday Park (02) 4975 1889

Harbour and Estuary Fishing Charters (02) 9999 2574 or 0410 633 351 Sydney Sportfishing Adventures 0405 196 253 Ocean Hunter Sports Fishing 0414 906 569

Blacksmiths Holiday Park (02) 4971 2858

CENTRAL COAST

QUEENSLAND

Central Coast Holiday Parks 1800 241 342

Pantera II 2017

CHART

Castaway Estuary Charters 0427 239 650

HUNTER COAST • • • •

PORT & REEF SFISHING GAME ERS

MACQUARIE COAST

Crescent Head Holiday Rentals (02) 6566 0500

$49,990

Freshest Fishing Tours 0421 405 221 Coffs Coast Sport Fishing 0434 517 683 Trial Bay Fishing Charters, 0427 256 556

Mikat Cruises Fishing Charters Swains & Coral Sea 0427 125 727

ILLAWARRA COAST Riviera Caravan Park, St George’s Basin (02) 4441 2112

FRESHWATER Burrinjuck Waters State Park (02) 6227 8114 Grabine Lakeside State Park (02) 4835 2345 Alpine Tourist Park (02) 6454 2438 www.alpinetouristpark.com.au Milani Trout Cottages (02) 6775 5735 www.milanitroutcottages.com Wyangala Waters State Park (02) 6345 0877 Chifley Dam Cabins 1800 68 1000 • • • •

$74,990

19’1” • Single axle Basscat trailer 200 hp Mercury Optimax 24v electric motor (Minn Kota or Motor Guide) 2 x sounders (Humminbird 698cxi HD Si or Lowrance HDS 7 GEN2)

• Reef, Deep Sea and Sport Fishing • Swains, Samurez, Cap Bunker Group • Dories available • LUXURY 20m Cat. New V8 Scanias. Large comfortable and stable. • Air conditioned and fast (cruise up to 16 knots) • Professional crew (over 22 years experience) • Cater for groups up to 12 people from 3 to 10 days • BYO or fully licenced bar • Desalinate unit • Trips designed to suit your requirements

FISH TAXIDERMY Fish Taxidermist 0428 544 841

CHARTER BOATS

Yar-Craft 1785BT 2017

SATELLITE TV INSTALLED

Dave Gaden’s Yamba • Deep Sea

REEL TIME FISHING CHARTERS

• • • •

Sabre FTD 2017

FISHING GUIDES Fish Port Stephens Estuary Charters 0434 370 687

ILLAWARRA COAST Bay & Basin Sportsfishing 0413 610 832

EDEN COAST

Phone Dave today: www.fishingyamba.com.au 0428 231 962

$59,990

18’1” • Single axle Basscat trailer 115 hp Mercury 4 stroke 24v electric motor (Minn Kota or Motor Guide) 2 x sounders (Humminbird 698cxi HD Si or Lowrance HDS 7 GEN2)

MANNING RIVER MARINE 13 Victoria Street, TAREE (02) 6552 2333 jim@manningrivermarine.com.au www.mercurydealertaree.com ABERDEEN FISHING & OUTDOORS 69 New England Hwy, ABERDEEN (02) 6543 7111 aberdeentackle@gmail.com www.aberdeenfishingandoutdoors.com.au

We Build Dreams... It’s a Family Tradition A U S T R A L I A

PORT STEPHENS

• 6am to 2pm $150pp • 3 boats – holds up to 30+ people • All fishing gear and bait is supplied • No fishing licence req. • Pickup from Yamba Marina or Iluka ferry wharf

EASY PARKING

• • • •

Phone: 0410 173 060 basscataustralia@gmail.com

Phone: 0427 125 727 I Fax: (07) 4972 1759 michael@mikat.com.au

www.mikat.com.au

$59,990

17’5” • Single axle Basscat trailer 75 hp Mercury 4 stroke 24v electric motor (Minn Kota or Motor Guide) 2 x sounders (Humminbird 597cxi HD Di or Lowrance HDS 5)

FISHING EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME!

OPEN 7 DAYS

MARINA BOAT & TACKLE, YAMBA MARINA

YAMBA’S LARGEST TACKLE STORE • Chandlery • Boat Sales • Ice & Gas • Bait & Tackle • Trailers Sales & Parts • Charter Bookings Ph: 6646 1994 or 0428 231 962 Email: dave@gaden.com.au Now Agents For

CLARENCE COAST Reel Time Fishing Charters Yamba 0428 231 962

Captain Kev’s Wilderness Fishing Tours (02) 4474 3345 or 0424 625 160

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. 90

OCTOBER 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

New Lazer 60g with premium VMC hooks, a must-have lure in every serious tailor fisherman’s tackle box.

CANBERRA/ACT H2O Marine (02) 6280 0555 Aussie Boat Sales ACT & NSW 0433 531 226

TWEED/BYRON COAST Tweed Coast Marine (07) 5524 8877 Ballina Marineland (02) 6686 2669

ONLINE TACKLE PRODUCTS

www.fishin.com.au TOURNAMENT TACKLE STORE

ZX BLADES ZMAN GRUBZ CRANKA CRABS

MACQUARIE COAST Graham Barclay Marine (02) 6554 5866 Manning River Marine Taree (02) 6552 2333

BENT MINNOWS

JACKALL CHUBBY

FREE EXPRESS SHIPPING

ba Prawn Blade s” “Yam www.lazerlures.com CLARENCE

YAMBA BAIT & TACKLE “Yamba’s Leading Tackle Shop” “IN THE MAIN STREET” Shop 3, 8 Yamba St, Yamba

MINN REPAIRS & SERVICING • All electric motor brands • Australia wide freight • Quick turn around • Authorised Minn Kota/Watersnake repairer Minn Repairs & Servicing Call Troy 0412 605 080 – W: minnrepairs.com minnrepairsservicing E: minnrepairs@gmail.com

MODIFICATIONS & REPAIRS // BOAT & TRAILER Salt Away 1800 091 172 www.salt-away.com.au

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

02 6646 1514

•

OPEN 7 DAYS

0425 230 964 – info@fishin.com.au SHOP 18, 29 KIORA RD MIRANDA NSW 2228

www.fishin.com.au 0425 230 964 Blue Bottle Fishing 0409 333 380 or www.bluebottlefishing.com MOTackle (02) 6652 4611 or www.motackle.com.au

“The Home of Leavey Lures” • Stocking all Major Brands • Experienced Local Knowledge • Tournament Bream Gear in Stock • Snorkelling gear in stock

Drop in to see Mick & Kelly

Marina Boat and Tackle (02) 6646 1994 Yamba Bait & Tackle (02) 6646 1514 Wooli Bait & Tackle (02) 6649 7100

Adrenalin Flies www.adrenalinflies.com.au Anglers Warehouse www.anglerswarehouse.com.au

N O W AVA IL A B L E ALL YOUR FISHING MONTHLY GEAR

MACQUARIE COAST Ned Kelly Bait n Tackle Port Macquarie (02) 6583 8318 Graham Barclay Marine (02) 6554 5866 Manning River Marine Taree (02) 6552 2333

SYDNEY Australian Bass Angler www.abafishing.com.au

FRESHWATER

Aberdeen Fishing & Outdoors (02) 6543 7111 Dubbo Marine and Watersports (02) 6882 2853 Loomzys Fish and Fix (Forbes) (02) 6851 1425

www.hydrowaveaustralia.com

NOW YOU CAN TIE THE PERFECT FG KNOT EVERY TIME

Boat Wrap Specialist

NO MORE bulky braid/leader joins

www.xfactorsigns.com

22 85

Compleat Angler Kempsey (02) 6562 5307 MOTackle (02) 6652 4611 or www.motackle.com.au Rocks Marine Bait & Tackle South West Rocks (02) 6566 6726

HUNTER COAST

(includes shipping)

COFFS COAST

Port Stephens Tackle World (02) 4984 2144

$449 USD

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Advertisers wanting to be involved in this directory can call (07) 3387 0800 or email ads@fishingmonthly.com.au OCTOBER 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. 92

OCTOBER 2018

boats & kayaks

In the skipper’s seat 94 Worth doing? Worth Durras Inside story...

Stessco is an Australian owned and operated family business. With a love of fishing and boating, Stessco has built a wide-ranging network of dealerships, with the goal of providing customers with dependable, value-for-money aluminium boats. Stessco prides itself on the wide variety of options available which can be added to the already wide range of different vessels.

Made for...

Anglers who are after a reliable tinny that can be customised to suit their individual requirements and fishing style.

This month...

Editor Steve Morgan climbs into the Stessco Bowrider 520 with Yamaha F90hp. Check it out on page 102!

Toby Grundy checks out another beautiful South Coast fishery in search of a kayak fishing fix!

96 SUP progression

Justin Willmer shares what he’s learnt in the nine months he’s had his SUP.

98 Staying alive!

Wayne Kampe discusses live bait tank options for small boats – something often forgotten about in the buying process!

100 Cruise Craft 595EX

Editor Steve Morgan has a run in this amazing looking rig, powered by a Yamaha F200hp 4-stroke.

OCTOBER 2018

Small boat live bait tank options BRISBANE

Wayne Kampe wkff@aapt.net.au

We rarely see much fishing media coverage of live bait usage. There’s the odd

account and the tank might be a beauty, likely having a clear top or front, and maybe even an LED light. There’s nothing like some mood lighting for your livies! When we survey rigs between $15,000 and

aren’t made from glass) to a small icebox with a 12V portable aerator rigged up to keep the bubbles coming. Even a bucket with an aerator in it will work as long as you follow a few simple rules.

from collapsible metal mesh that was fine enough to keep really small baitfish in check. The floating push-down style lid was big enough to accommodate a big, fat luderick, and to allow me to extract livies when required. Collapsible wire fish keepers of this style are a bit hard to come by, but they are still being made by Sure Catch (Wilson Fishing), Seahorse and Jarvis Walker, so it just comes down to finding a tackle outlet that stocks them. Wire keepers aren’t expensive, and if you wash them after each use they will give you years of handy service. Rough but ready While on the subject of external livey tanks, there’s nothing wrong with

Young Amelia McEntee having fun. One of the great things about bait tanks is that they entertain kids, who love to watch the activity. take out a livey whenever you need one. I’ve seen a couple of really good DIY units made

The trick is to construct a squarish tank using stainless screws and waterproof glue, and drill as many small holes

Now that’s a live well! With a clear lid and plumbing, this tank is the bee’s knees. mention of ‘livies’ here and there, but any mention of that essential item – a bait tank that actually works – is as scarce as scales on a squid.

$25,000, however, there’s no guarantee of a bait tank – and for boats under $15,000 the only tank fitted is probably one the owner has installed. The good news is that

This bait well is on a $35,000 boat. It comes with plumbing, as you’d expect for a boat of that price. Spend upwards of $25,000 on a boat and there might be a bait tank of some form or other. Over $40,000 from the

a DIY bait tank set-up is actually not that hard; there are many small boat owners using live bait to very good effect, and who have all sorts of interesting methods of keeping everything from yabbies to yakkas alive. I’ve seen livies in everything from an adapted aquarium (the best ones

A collapsible wire fish keeper, like this one from Jarvis Walker, is a cheap and easy way to store livies. 98

OCTOBER 2018

CLEAN WATER IS THE KEY Whether you’re using live worms, yabbies, prawns or small fish, you need to provide a flow of clean water and keep it oxygenated to keep your livies in good condition. A flow of water doesn’t necessarily mean that a hose has to be running, but it’s vital that the water is kept clean. I’ve kept fish going strongly for hours in livewells in various boats – even really big livies with a high demand for clean oxygenated water – simply by using a bucket to take water out and pour fresh water in. The splashing from the incoming water traps a lot of oxygen. Another thing to consider is to not overcrowd your livebaits if you want to keep them in good condition. You don’t want too many small fish competing for limited space and oxygen. EXTERNAL TANKS Small boat owners have the choice of an internal livey tank or an external one. That’s right, an external unit. They certainly do work as they keep the bait totally immersed within its own environment, and they need next to no cleaning out to prevent pong, unlike other styles of tanks. Collapsible fish keepers A few years ago I bought several external live fish keepers that were quite suited to storing and keeping alive anything from bream or luderick right down to hardiheads, gar or herring. Tethered alongside the boat and totally immersed except for the lid, these ball-shaped keepers were constructed

There’s scope for some DIY installation here with this comprehensive set-up. constructing a DIY unit. The main requirements are that it should have a really free water flow, plus a lid that floats to keep the tank on the surface. The lid should also be large enough to let you

from marine ply. It sounds primitive, but they work just fine. The idea is to make the tank large enough to hold a few fish at a time. Pike, gar, yakkas – the system is ideal for all of these fish.

This system is a little rough around the edges, but it works well simply because the water is bucketed in and out. It’s enough to keep the water fresh and aerated.

in the sides, top and bottom as possible. These holes will keep the water flowing while the keeper is tied up and floating beside the boat. The lid should have some floatant material (such as closed cell foam attached with Sikaflex) to keep it on the surface. As far as hinges for the lid go, a strip of heavy truck inner tube works a treat. It’s smart to make the lid large enough for you to use a little mesh net to extract the livies. I have used one of these wooden wonders which was 450mm long and 400 deep. It kept small fish alive for hours, simply because water could flow freely from start to finish. At the end of the day it could be washed out and left to dry until the next use. The baitfish seemed to settle down within it very quickly, and sat quietly swimming into the current coming through the holes. When moving to another location, I simply lifted the keeper out and put it in a plastic box with water in it to keep them going. You do the same thing with the collapsible wire mesh keepers.

STOREBOUGHT OPTIONS Internal bait tanks can take many forms. Most can be snugged into a suitable spot without too much trouble, but you need to be careful about overdoing things. An overly large tank brings issues, mostly weight. Remember, 1L of water weighs 1kg. Your tank will need

a lid to stop both water slopping out and the livies jumping out. Also, the lid must be large enough to accommodate a small dip net when it’s time to grab a fresh livey, to make life easier. The funny thing about live baits is that none of them want to be next! Whitworths, Boating and RV plus many other boat accessory outlets usually offer

several bait tanks of different sizes. These units come complete with a lid, and have plumbing as well, if required. I found a 30L Florite unit at Boating and RV which looks to be ideal for fitting into a small boat, and it would be ideal for manual filling, given the size of its lid. As a bucket fill unit, I’d also set up an outflow pipe to handle any

External aeration for a live well can be as simple as slipping a Rapala aerator into the mix. If the aerator can keep bass alive it will certainly do an excellent job with live bait.

There’s something for everyone in this selection from a marine chandlery outlet.

excess water, and have an aerator close by to keep the air flow going. That aside, anglers who enjoy DIY projects could just as easily set it up with a pump as well as the outflow and aerator. And if there’s a need to attach any gear to the outside of the bait tank or close by, simply use Sikaflex. This marine sealant sets like rubbery concrete. From my experience, anything glued in place with Sikaflex usually stays there. If you accidentally get some in the wrong spot, use metho while the Sikaflex is still nice and fluid.

KEEP THOSE LIVEYS ALIVE! Whether your chosen bait tank is a store-bought item or a DIY Sunday morning masterpiece, there are just a few things to remember when keeping livies for bait. Firstly, it’s important that only the best bait items should go in the tank. If you’re catching small fish with a bait jig, hold the jig over the tank inlet and try to flick or wriggle the fish off without touching them. If you’re catching small fish or prawns with a cast net, try not to handle them

excessively; just shake them gently into the tank without excessive trauma. As soon as one critter throws in the towel the whole lot are likely to do so, which means it’s important to quickly remove any that are dying or dead. Changing the water and keeping plenty of air in the system is also vital for their performance. Finally, remember that while a bait tank is pretty important, spending lots of money on one is not always necessary. Besides, there’s a lot of satisfaction in DIY projects!

One Revolutionary Ride! The Crossfire range is the most versatile boat yet. Designed for 80% fishing and 20% fun meaning the entire family will be happy out on the water. The Crossfire comes in multiple configurations with a side console as standard but can be fitted with a second twin console.

Contact your local dealer for more information.

CENTRAL COAST

DUBBO

GRAFTON

LAVINGTON

425 The Entrance Rd, Long Jetty Ph (02) 4333 3444 stacerboats1@aol.com

36 Bourke Street, Dubbo Ph (02) 6882 2853 bbeandel@bigpond.net.au

160 North St, Grafton Ph (02) 6643 1199 sales@discomarine.com.au

474 Wagga Road, Lavington Ph (02) 6040 9999 bordermarine@westnet.com.au

IN TUNE MARINE

www.intunemarine.com.au

DUBBO MARINE

www.dubbomarine.com.au

DISCO MARINE

www.discomarine.com.au

MID NORTH COAST

SYDNEY SOUTH

SYDNEY WEST

537 Ocean Dr, North Haven Ph (02) 6559 9344 enquiries@camdenhavenmarine.com.au

1-13 Mangrove Lne, Taren Point Ph (02) 9524 0044 sales@marinabayside.com.au

1 Railway Rd North, Mulgrave Ph (02) 4577 6699 sales@blakesmarine.com.au

CAMDEN HAVEN MARINE

www.camdenhavenmarine.com.au

MARINA BAYSIDE

www.marinabayside.com.au

BORDER MARINE

www.bordermarinecentre.com.au

BLAKES MARINE

www.blakesmarine.com.au OCTOBER 2018

Cruise Craft 595EX with Yamaha F200 4-stroke - SC

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Main: At full cry, the Cruise Craft 595 looks, sounds and feels great. It’s what you’d expect from a premium Australian boat builder. And Cruise Craft have a sound relationship with Yamaha – the F200 is an ideal power plant for the type of fishing you’d do in this rig, delivering just under 1.9km/L at cruising speed. Above: Although the test day on Port Phillip Bay was glamorous, the rough water ability and quietness of the Cruise Craft hull is legendary. We can report that it goes well on flat water! outboard, the test boat was fitted with the maximum 200hp. At over 2t on the trailer, it’s not a light rig, however the F200 delivered maximum economy of 1.8km/L at 3600rpm and a comfortable cruising speed of 40km/h. Want to drive this rig flat out? No worries, it’ll give you a smooth 77km/h at 5900 rpm and 1km/L, so ease up on the throttle if you

Length.......................................................5.95m Length Overall..........................................6.35m Length on trailer.........................................7.5m Height with targa.....................................3.22m Height with screen..................................2.43m Tow weight............................................. 2100kg Beam.........................................................2.44m Transom deadrise........................................ 20° Transom height..............................................XL Max hp......................................................200hp Recommended hp................................... 175hp Capacity.......................................... Six persons Fuel............................................................. 190L OCTOBER 2018

but folded down you can fit it into a garage with a 2.45m clearance. That’s important if you need to store your boat undercover in an area with limited height. Want to know more about this rig? You can watch the video review on

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If you’re a fan of Fishing Monthly boat tests, you may remember the test that Streaker Marine’s Sean Savage and I did on the $200,000 Cruise Craft 685HT. Powered by a 300hp Yamaha, it’s a dreamboat for plenty of anglers out there, and Sean has seen plenty of them roll out the door ever since. This time, we’re taking one of the smaller Cruise Craft models for a spin – the 585EX with a 200hp Yamaha. Built in Brisbane to exacting standards and factory fitted with motors and trailers, Cruise Craft boats have a reputation for quality and a price tag to match. Incidentally, the Cruise Craft factory also makes the Streaker boat brand now in Brisbane. This test is for Streaker Marine. It’s a small world in the boating industry. The 595EX (Explorer) is the third smallest and third largest fishing boat in the Cruise Craft range. Designed to run a 175hp

s.morgan@fishingmonthly.com.au

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“What I also like about the hull design is that it was made from scratch from the water up and it carries its beam a long way forward. That gives it the ability to stay on the plane at slower speeds, which helps while driving in rough water.

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want less pain at the bowser. From bow to stern, the build and design quality is obvious and the boat rides quietly on the water. At the helm, there’s ample space for whatever suite of electronics you want to fit to be flush mounted. The helm seating is comfortable and designed to store coolers underneath. I’m a particular fan of the soft top fitted with a slide out sunshade, especially in northern climates where it’s virtually mandatory to fish undercover. The test boat was also fitted with clip-in carpet, which makes life easier at the wash-down stage, especially if you’ve had a busy day on the fish. Sean Savage has sold plenty of Cruise Craft packages and rates the 595EX as “The best bang for buck in the Cruise Craft range.” “And the resale value of these rigs is also amazing.

The fact that everything is plush and factory-fitted means that there’s ultimate confidence from both the dealers and the customers that everything is done right. We love selling them,” Savage continued.

RPM................... km/h.................... km/L 700............................5........................ 1.7 1000..........................7........................ 2.5 2000........................ 15........................ 1.9 3000........................ 24........................ 1.6 3600........................ 40........................ 1.8 4000........................ 45........................ 1.7 5000........................ 61........................ 1.3 5900........................ 77........................ 1.0 *As tested with a 17” S/S propeller When looking at the differences between the base model price (packages start from low $90K) and the test boat ($111,850), a lot of the cost is made up of the stainless steel, factory-fitted folding Targa top. Erected, the boat’s height tops out at 3.22m,

YouTube on the Fishing Monthly Magazines YouTube channel, or by scanning the QR code on the page hereby with your smartphone. Or, of course, you can check out this and all their other models at www. cruisecraft.com.au.

At wide-open throttle, like all boats, the economy drops. If you want to go 77km/h at 5900rpm, the fuel calculations become easy – you get 1km/L burned.

The 595 is supplied from the factory on an Australian built Easytow trailer with twin axles. Indeed, the whole boat/motor/trailer is factory rigged for the best in quality control.

There’s plenty of cockpit space and removable carpet to aid cleaning after a big day on the water.

Here’s the rear bench seat deployed. The mechanism is strong and neat to pack away.

You can store a few rods or gaffs in the side pocket as well as tackle in the bottom section.

This model comes with a sliding, lockable cabin door for privacy and security.

Now there’s a helm that’ll hold all the electronics you’ll want to put into a $100K+ boat. Cruise Craft cabins are always a combination of style and practicality. This one takes an optional toilet for a weekend away.

The 20° of deadrise at the transom and a 2.44m beam combine to offer good ride and stability at rest.

Cruise Craft’s bait stations have evolved over the years to this design, and it’s removable for family days.

The slide out shade option on the targa top is wonderfully practical and you can keep your excess rods out of the way above it.

The Stressfree electric anchor winch is bordering on a standard inclusion rather than an option. Once you’ve had one, you’ll never go back.

Cruise Craft’s Yamahas are factory fitted in Brisbane for the best in quality control. OCTOBER 2018

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Stessco Bowrider 520 with Yamaha F90HP - SC

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Length..........................................................5.1m Beam..........................................................2.29m Bottom.sheet ..............................................3mm Side.sheet....................................................3mm Hull.weight ................................................500kg Max.HP .......................................................... 115 Fuel .............................................................. 110L Capacity .............................................. 6 persons Main: Chasing a locally made aluminium plate boat that will keep the whole family happy and not break the bank? You need to check out the Stessco Bowrider 520. Above: The bowrider was right at home in the Noosa River on the test day. means that it’s affordable for plenty of families. It also means that you probably won’t have to upgrade the family car to tow it. S e c o n d l y, the configuration is pretty easily interchangeable between ‘fishing mode’ and ‘fun mode’. Drop in a few cushions up the front and add the removable ski pole and

RPM................... km/h.................... km/L 1000 ...................... 6.5 ....................... 3.4 2000.................... 10.7 ....................... 2.3 3000.....................27.9 ....................... 3.4 3500 .................... 35.6 ....................... 3.4 4000.................... 42.2 ....................... 3.3 5000.................... 54.8 ....................... 2.7 6000.....................67.2 ....................... 1.7 * fitted with SDS alloy 13 1/4 x 16” propeller OCTOBER 2018

easily interchangeable,” Biel continued. And that’s exactly what they’ve done. Tweaked a great seller to make it just that little bit better. For more information on the 520 Bowrider, or any of the 2018 Stessco range, visit their website on www. stessco.com.au, make sure

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s.morgan@fishingmonthly.com.au

Stessco’s Adrian Biel reckons that when your hull is a good thing, you don’t change it. And that’s exactly what Stessco has done with their 520 Bowrider hull. They’ve kept the popular shape and improved the layout. But let’s backtrack a few steps before we dig into the details. Where does the Bowrider sit in the Stessco range and why would you buy one? Well, it’s definitely a more comfortable boat for the less hardcore anglers in the family. Especially compared to something like the Gulf Runner. And sometimes, the fishing alone isn’t the reason you buy a boat. Yes, I know. It’s a strange concept, but shade, comfort and the ability to use a boat for a variety of activities ticks a lot of boxes with modern outdoor families and this Stessco fits right into the hitting zone. Firstly, it weighs in around the high $30K mark (and at around 1,000kg on the weighbridge), which

formula from the Brisbane based company. There aren’t many drawbacks of this rig, however the fact that most of your underfloor storage will still let water dribble through in the rain is a problem for local manufacturers. “Look, from the gunwales down, there’s

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you’re ready to go tubing. If you’re really clever, you’ll even have an electric motor on a bracket that takes a few seconds to pop off and on, which will really turn this into a fishing machine. Thirdly, this boat is cheap to run. A boat over 5m in length with this level of fitout and that delivers well over 3km/L at cruising speeds really is giving you great value for money. The 110L tank fitted in this boat will get you over 300km of range at cruising speeds. The best we saw was at 3,5004,000 RPM where it nearly reached 3.5km/L. And finally, it’ll definitely turn heads at the ramp. The smooth plate aluminium sides look great with Stessco’s standard

colours, or alternatively take a vinyl wrap if you really want to make a statement. Other improvements like the new, smoother windscreen just add to an already winning

nothing much we wanted to change in this boat,” said Adrian on the 2018 Media Day at Noosa, “so it’s just the small things that we’ve made better.” “Things like the removable ski-pole and bait board, these needed to be

you Like their Facebook page (Stessco Boats) for social media updates and definitely scan the QR Code hereby to watch the video review of this rig on your smartphone. It’s also available direct on the Fishing Monthly YouTube channel.

Everything is economical in the rig – from the mid-to-high $30K purchase price (depending on options) to the best fuel economy of 3.3km/L at 4,000rpm.

Driven at the best economy, the 110L fuel tank will give over 300km of theoretical range.

Back in the cockpit you can sit in the shade and swivel the seats around to watch a skiier or talk with your passengers on the bench seat. The ski-pole is removable.

Obviously, there’s a mountain of storage space under the front seats, although it’s not totally waterproof.

Drop some batteries in here if you choose to add an electric motor to the front of the rig.

Stessco’s Bowriders are a fun and good-looking rigs that really hit the spot with family boaters.

Here’s what the front deck looks like with the foam cushions on top of the infill.

You can remove the centre cushion and the deck section to allow for comfortable seating forward.

You can shut the split windscreen and the bulkhead door to keep the breeze and spray out.

The rear bench sits starboard while the transom door allows easy loading and is on the port transom side.

The helm is simple and can hold smaller electronics flush-mounted.

Here’s how you transform the bow into its various forms. First remove the cushions and stow under the decks. Next remove the floor infill. It provides everything from lounging to fishing in a bit of a swell. OCTOBER 2018

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