Recently two campers were fined $619 on the spot and others cautioned after breaching a freshwater fishing ban designed to protect the critically endangered Mary River cod. Fishing in southeast Queensland’s upper Mary River catchment and adjoining creeks was prohibited from August 1 until the end of October to safeguard Mary River cod during its breeding season. The species has …

NSW DPI Fisheries Officers recently conducted a clean-up of abandoned and unmarked crab traps in the Port Stephens area preparing for the crab season ahead. A reminder to recreational fisherman targeting crabs to ensure they are marking their floats correctly and checking traps regularly to allow for safe release of undersize crabs, non-target fish or other wildlife species that may …

We’ve enjoyed a few good fishing days on the Sunshine Coast this week, however the wind has returned and doesn’t look to be easing off anytime soon. The forecast suggests the breezy conditions are here to stay for the upcoming week, with a slight pause on Saturday, making it the only decent day for fishing. Expect warm conditions with little …

Inshore fishing The inshore reefs have been fishing very well with pelagic’s such as spanish mackerel and school mackerel being the standout fish being caught. Trolling gar and hard body lures first light in the mornings has definitely been the standout technique to get the bite from the spanish mackerel. With the schoolies fast retrieving 50g Flasha spoons vertically off …

Mercury Marine introduced the Avator 20E and 35E electric propulsion systems recently. The new models join Mercury’s electric propulsion line-up alongside the award-winning Avator 7.5E outboard, which launched in January at the annual Consumer Electronics Show. Two more electric outboard products will be unveiled in the coming months as Mercury advances on its commitment to be the leader in electric …

When undertaking research before buying a new boat, don’t consider only the boat size, your primary uses for it, where you’re going to store it, likely destinations you are going to visit, your budget for the purchase and the on-going running costs. Yes, they are all important factors, but so are the insurance implications, and it’s good advice to consider …

Mulloway are an important and iconic species for NSW commercial, recreational and Aboriginal cultural fishers, however stocks in NSW are currently classified as ‘depleted’. Recovering mulloway stocks in NSW is a key priority for NSW Department of Primary Industries Fisheries. Despite a range of fishing arrangements being implemented in the past, given the reported data DPI Fisheries managers and scientists …

Recreational fishers have a reason to celebrate, as new Offshore Artificial Reefs (OAR) have now been installed off Forster and the Central Coast. These newly installed OARs will be a stunning drawcard for locals and tourists alike to the region, increasing fishing opportunities for keen anglers hoping to snag a range of fish species, including yellowtail scad, kingfish and snapper. …

Welcome to the Bait Master Fishing and Tackle weekly fishing report for the Sunshine Coast. Over the past week, we’ve seen a mix of activity across the coast with a variety of catches reported. We are still hearing that it’s pretty tough going out there, so persistence is key! Bucking the trend are mangrove jacks, which are out in force. …

AFTA 2023 John Dunphy Award for Innovation Winner daiwa The 23 Exist SF Super Finesse spinning reels are specifically designed for light tackle, with up to 4lb mono and #0.6 braided lines for trout, bass and saltwater light games. Compared to its base 22 Exist spinning, Exist SF has a smaller gear box, shorter spool and lighter rotors to maximise …