Mako Madness

by Scott Baker

It’s early February, and with the water temperature starting to rise, and the appearance of the small pelagic tuna off the north east coast. Wade Pelham and myself decided it would be a good time to seek out a highly regarded game fish; the Blue Pointer or more commonly known as the Mako.

Hart’s Hints - Little things can make a difference

by Andrew Hart

Fish can often be very frustrating. Many people find themselves going fishing for an afternoon of relaxation, and end up getting all uptight because of some little, annoying thing that could have been avoided.

There are many simple, innovative ideas that can make the wonderful world of fishing a whole lot easier. Some of these ideas are available at your local tackle shop, others can be put into practice around the house.

In this, the first article of a series, listed are some useful tips, techniques and accessories that make a huge difference.

Do we underestimate our Redfin Perch

The Redfin as it is known to most Tasmanians is not favoured by many anglers – although there is no reason why this should be so. The Redfin will take flies, lures and bait readily and is quite good to eat. A lot of anglers consider it a nuisance good ENGLISH PERCH (Redfin-Perca fluviatilis) According to a Royal Commission report on the fisheries of Tasmania issued in 1882-3, the English Perch was first introduced to Tasmania in 1862 by two brothers, Morton and Curzon Allport.

Derwent River trout – an early treat

Steve Bax from Hobart’s Fishing Connection previews fishing for sea run trout in the Derwent River.

Some of the best trout fishing in Tasmania is found on Hobart’s doorstep in the Derwent River. At this time of the year most anglers catch their fish on bait – using the local pretty fish, but there is also dedicated band of fly fishers. The pretty fish are found all over the Derwent, as are the trout.

Cooking Tamar River Cod

by Steve Suitor

Two of the most prevalent species present in the Tamar are Flathead and Cod.

Flathead has a firm white flesh which is excellent fare whether it be fried, grilled,BBQ or soused. While most cooks have little trouble presenting flathead in an attractive and appetising manner, a great many have trouble with cod.

Cold water survival

This article is reproduced from an American magazines, and thus the language must be excused. The message though is very important.

The first day of the trout season always feels like the last day of winter, especially with the water just a few degrees warmer than ice. But you’ve found a lake where almost one else goes, and you’re enjoying every minute of it, despite the cold.

Looking at Lures

by Michael Bok

I have had a few Rapala lures in my tackle box for several years but had never really thought about them until it was suggested that I might like to look at a few bibbed lures I use in the up coming trout season.

Lake Echo – worth a visit

Lake Echo is only about 13 kilometres south of Great Lake as the crow flies but around 55 kilometres by road, and quite rough road at that. However this water can be very productive throughout the season. It fishes well early, especially for fly fishers and bait anglers and is well worth a visit. Steve Meredith takes a look at one of his favourite waters.

Great Lake, A history and guide to better fishing

In 1987 the Inland Fisheries Commission undertook an extensive study of the Great Lake. This study, conducted by Peter Davies and Wayne Fulton, addressed many areas, including history, fauna, netting surveys, and how anglers can catch more trout. Although this study is now 9 years old, many (most) of the observations are still relevant. With a very high water level in the Great Lake it would pay to study some of the recommended angling methods if you want to consistently catch fish this season. This report (which some updates and alters by the editor) is reproduced with thanks to the IFC.

Lures and flies for August and September

by Michael Stevens

Recently I surveyed a number of well known, and some not so well known anglers to establish a guide to lures and flies for the start of the trout fishing season. Firstly lures, and then flies that the following anglers would like to have in their box for the opening two months. Each angler was asked “If you could only have three lures/three flies in your box for the start of the season, what would they be?”