SURFACE LURING ESTUARY SPECIES

In my opinion, surface luring for Bream, Flathead and Whiting is the most exciting form of estuary fishing available. Watching the lure skipping along on the surface and watching a bow wave form behind it then having your lure smashed off the surface is just so much fun and highly addictive and there is no better water craft than a kayak for this type of fishing. Technique slightly varies between the different species as does lure choice so ill go through a few things that have scored some fish for me in the past.

Finding the fish

Water depth and structure are the first thing you should be looking at before throwing your lure out, fishing the wrong spots will leave you without any success and the poor old surface lure gets chucked back into the tackle box never to see the light of day again. All of my best fish have come from water depths between 0.3m to 1.5m, i never fish any deeper than 2m and only fish that deep when its a clear hot summer day. Shallow sandflats where you would find saltwater yabbies are a ideal place to start, along with shallow weedbeds particuarly if you can find some with sand patches through it.

It doesnt matter how shallow these flats are, as long as the weed isnt on top of the water your surface lure wont foul up on weed and it will suprise you to see how big some of the fish are that come off the very shallow flats. Fishing the front edge of weedbeds where they drop into deeper water are also a great place to look, fish will hide in the weeds waiting for baitfish to pass by and ambush anything edible that crosses nearby. Retreiving your lure either accross the front of the weedbed or over the top of it often results in some fantastic fishing.

Lure choice

I keep a large range of surface lures with me on the water, different sizes and colours are always in the tackle box and most have landed plenty of fish. The sizes i use range from 35mm up to 70mm in various different brands and colours. Colours i prefer are the more natural ones like baitfish or prawn colouring, and more often than not transparent. There are a few different types of surface lures, but the two types i prefer are the poppers which splash and make the bloop sound, and the walk the dog style lures that dart and zigzag accross the surface which are usually the better lure on calm bright days.

Equipment and tackle

A good quality spinning combo will make your experience much more enjoyable, surface luring all day long can get quite tiring, its especially hard on your wrist so a nice light and well balanced combo is going to keep you fishing better and longer. Graphite rods in the 6-7ft ranger are ideal, i prefer the shorter 6ft rods matched with a 1000-1500 size spinning reel. As with most fish species, light line will catch you more fish, the only down side to this is if a big flathead decides to take your lure you want to have some sort of chance of getting her in. I found that 4lb braided mainline with a 6lb leader of good quality is ample for getting a majority of the larger flatties in and the light 4lb braid will give you good casting distance. Your hooks are also very important, most lures come with cheaper treble hooks so i always upgrade the trebles to Owner stinger's before i take the lure out for the first time.

Techinque

Your retreive style and speed will play a large part in what you will catch. Whiting prefer a fast, quite aggressive retreive with no pauses. Slowing the lure down a little then speeding back up will often entice the fish to strike, but ive found as soon as you pause the lure, most of the time a whiting will shy away from it. With the fast aggressive retreive i find the popper lures to be the best when specifically targetting Whiting. Bream will hit either of the two surface lures i mentioned but the retreive is slightly different, although you will still get the odd bream here and there using the technique aimed at whiting, but not as many as you could be.

Slow the retreive down for bream, add a few twitches to the lure then pause for around 5 seconds, and repeat until your lure is back to you or a nice big bream comes along and swipes the lure off the surface. Bream commonly take the lure with a gentle slurp while its paused so always be ready. Flathead i find are a little harder to target specifically, plenty are taken using both methods mentioned above but the most reliable way of getting them is a very slow retreive, just a twitch or 2 of the lure then pause, similar to bream just slower retreives and sharper twitches using the bigger 60-70mm lures over sand patches in the weedbeds or the edge of a sandy drop off.

Getting the technique's right can be frustrating at times, but the rewards in the end make it a worthwile procedure and i guarantee you will be glad you put the time and effort into learning how to catch fish on surface lures, it truly is a spectacular way of fishing for the more common estuary species

SHAPE UP OR SHIP OUT! (A LESSON LEARNED)

Let’s start on some self examination shall we,

I would like to talk to you about fitness and the ways it can affect your paddling / pedalling prowess. You may be a healthy individual whose height to weight ratio is spot on. You may also be a couch potato venturing out into activity for the first time since the millennium, either way this topic is for both sides of the fence.

I was once a fully fledged fit individual; training for soccer and Judo five days a week, as I left my teens I used this fitness to get me midway through my twenties. Little did I know that muscles disappear or return to an unused state, basically rendering my previous fitness level defunct. Turning to my late twenties I took on Kayak Fishing as a new exciting Hobie, first pedalling then paddling.

Pedalling using a Mirage Drive was an easy enough proposition and soon worked up to a few decent days on the yak. It wasn’t as exhausting as a bike ride but the pain was still there, like training the more kilometres I ticked over the less my legs hurt. Upgrading to Turbo fins took me beyond the pain barrier, speed and strength was now in my grasp but all this was at the cost of a reoccurring Soccer Injury (Clicking knee).

My option was to take up paddling and develop an upper body that had been neglected for too many years. The results were not instantaneous but they came quickly, shoulder muscles grew along with brute force and mental exertion. Finding the upper body workout more strenuous I wasn’t surprised when things started to give.

A 6km round trip paddle in 30+ winds, 3m swell and horrendous wind chop might be good to test the soul but it’s a sure fire way of losing a technique and injuring oneself. What I was missing in all of these activities, be it pedalling or paddling, was the core strength issue. Huge legs, strong arms and bulging shoulders can only support so much of ones efforts, my back began to fail and once again my youth came into play (In a bad way).

I was burn with slight scoliosis and as a result overdeveloped a wing on my lower fifth vertebrae. As I grew older I desiccated the lower 4th and 5th vert discs to a crumbling state, some days were fine and others I stood compensating because of pain. I was told to keep the weight down, fitness up and it would be manageable, either that or go through some sort of ‘Fusing’ operation (Family decided against this).

I thought these days were behind me but since taking up paddling the last few years have been painful. I lived with it, ignoring it to the point of not being able to stand when I got out of bed and receiving shooting pains through my ham strings and balls of my feet. My own research lead me to Sciatica and the symptoms entailed, I was convinced I had a bad case and went to the quack filled with anxiety and useless pride.

I showed symptoms yes, but this wasn’t the major problem. I didn’t know a lack of core strength exaggerated by hours upon hours of a seated position in a kayak could have had such serious effects on my health. It highlighted the obvious need for some daily stretching and a rethink on lifestyle, even those 10+ km weekends were not doing my core strength any favours, I was as strong as an Ox but as weak as water.

It’s been a few months and things have changed, both personally and professionally. I was previously tipping 110kg’s on a bad weekend, with an ideal height to weight ratio of 89 (Too light IMO) I had to lose weight fast to feel results. I joined a gym and started a health package training program tailored to my needs (Basically back strengthening exercises).

I go three times a week religiously and am now down to 95kgs, core muscle strength has returned but greater flexibility will take many years. Now here is the difference that I noticed the most, paddling has gotten easier where as pedalling has not. Having all over body strength will allow you to perform much better than someone lacking lower or upper body strength.

If you are suffering some sort of pain related to your pursuit of Kayak Fishing, please go and see your Doctor. I was lucky, things could have been a lot worse and the trip to a G.P could be the kick in the pants you need to shape up. The human body is a great tool but based on my experiences its one that should be used with caution. Understanding what you can or can’t do will limit your choices and expand your limitations.

SOUTH DURRAS - NSW SOUTH COAST 25/07/09

Well it was absolutely freezing this morning, I had ice on my windscreen for the first time this winter. Luke and I arrived at the South Durras beach ramp around 6:30am and as much as I wanted to just sit in the car with the heater running the conditions looked too good to miss out on so out into the cold i go and start the unload. I have to say, I really like that launch spot, it doesnt get much easier than that I paddled about 500m from the launch spot to start at the Southern side of Wasp island and sent out a 7" Gulp jerkshad on the heavier rod and a 7" Squidgee flickbait on the light rod and started a drift in about 12m of water with little result.

Before long i had drifted into 20m of water and sounded up some very interesting bottom structure with lots of baitfish in mid water. I thought i felt a bump come from the rear rod holder and looked back to see the heavier rod loaded up looking like it was snagged, then it lifted again and straight away buckled over and line started to peel off at a fast rate. I grabbed the rod and began the battle, this fish was very powerfull stripping the 15lb line like it was nothing, i called out to Luke letting him know i was onto a solid fish and after about 2-3mins the hook suddenly just popped out!!

I was gutted, it was probably the biggest and strongest fish I have ever hooked on the yak and was really looking forward to getting it up for some photo's, but it was not to be, hopefully next time ill have more luck. Luke and i worked that area pretty hard for the next 30mins or so with no more luck so I decided to move to a different area in shallower water, Squidder and Neville turned up just before we moved so we all went down to the new spot to hopefully get onto some Snapper.

The new drift was setup close to a cliff face in 10m of water and almost straight away i got onto my first Snapper of the day which would have only been about 40cm but at least I avoided the donut. The struggle for decent fish continued for the next hour at least until i came accross another very fishy looking structure on the sounder again in 20m of water and just as my lures passed over it a solid hit was registered on the light rod and i was onto what felt like a decent Snapper, once I got the fish to within sight I was very suprised to see it wasnt a Snapper but a nice Blue Morwong approx 45-50cm which is a first ever for me so a new PB was in the bag.

Once I had worked that area over, I decided to paddle another 50m south to fish the Myrtle beach headland. Chucked the heavier rod in the rear rod holder and cast the lighter setup toward to edge of the rocks, the lure was slowly dropping through the water column when i felt a bump in the rear rod holder and just as I looked back the light rod I was holding got smacked and line started to run (not hard fishing 6lb) I could see the fish on the sounder come up 3-4m then dive back down 2m etc. but I was gaining line slowly so remained patient and played the fish out and eventually slid the net under him. Im yet to measure that one too, but I suspect it might be a new Snapper PB as well, it will go close at least so ill have to wait and see.

The rest of the session was pretty quiet, except for a wrasse that was bitten in half by a small shark on the way to the yak so i figured it was a good time to call it a day and start the paddle back towing a lure, which was pointless as i didnt get any interest at all. A great day to be out, most of us were off the water by about 2pm so it was a fairly solid session although it was a bit slow but still good fun. South Durras is a very interesting place which im sure will hold some true trophy fish, so I will be back for another round soon.

DEPOT BEACH - AKFF WEEKEND, JULY 09

The time finally arrived for the AKFF organised Snapper weekend gathering at Depot beach on the NSW south coast and with a great turn out of around 15 keen yakkers it was looking to be a top weekend out on the ocean.
During the week i got hit with the flu and for a while it wasnt looking good for me, but after the long wait for this weekend to arrive i was just too keen to get out and meet some more AKFF members and to catch up with the others.

On saturday morning i arrived at the beach with my apprentice from work Steve at around 7:30am and launched into some pretty sloppy conditions really, it was a nice clear day but the wind was up a little more than the forecast predicted and after realising i had left my drogue at home i knew it was going to be a bit of a challenge.

Drifting with the usual SP's in my favourite spot proved pointless, hardly a hit on either rod all morning and after trying a few different spots in various depths i eventually came accross a patch of fish in about 18m of water and hooked up to what felt like a decent fish which i knew wasnt a snapper so i was curious to see what it was and after a short fight a big Barracouta came up next to me, much to my dissapointment.

I dropped a couple of reasonable sized snapper in the same area but still had no snapper in the hatch. I had a few things that i had to do on Saturday afternoon so i had to be off the water by midday and about 10mins before i had to go i hooked up to a cracker of a fish, big headshakes and some strong runs indicated a good snapper, the fish fought hard for 2-3mins and then after a solid run straight down i soon realised id been bricked big time, remembering Greg's advice from a earlier post i sat waiting with the bailarm open hoping the fish would swim free for at least 5 minutes which seemed like an eternity i got impatient and decided to try and pull the fish out with force.

As soon as i tried to do just that the fish took off again on another solid run, John was close by in his Adventure Island(what an impressive bit of gear that thing is!!) he saw the bend in the rod and came straight over to get some action shots and as soon as he got within good photo range the hook straightened and out popped the jighead, minus the SP. That was time up for me so i had to go and find Steve and pack it up and head home.

Everyone was camped at the Depot beach campground so i went back in the evening to have a chat to see how the afternoon session went and to find out how the fella's went out on the Ulladulla Kingy grounds. Sat around the campfire for a few hours before heading home to rest up for the Sunday session. Todays forecast was meant to be better than yesterday's but when i arrived at a lazy 8:30am (the flu has really set in now) the wind was much higher than predicted, i was tempted to turn around and go home but everyone else was out there so i thought i better join in, im glad i did because after about an hour it died right down to almost perfect conditions.

The start of the session was looking very similar to yesterday, not much happening for me at all, reports of plenty of good fish kept me keen to keep trying and eventually found a decent patch of snapper in about 19m of water with plenty of baitfish showing on the sounder too. Hooked up to a few snook, wrasse and rock cod before finally landing a snapper which was only 35cm so i sent him back in then the other rod loaded up as well and its twin was also released, then about 10 mins later my first and only keeper for the weekend came in at 51cm.

Then it all went quiet again for me so at about 1:30pm i called it a day and went back in and started the dreaded packup that wraps up another weekend :( I hate Sunday afternoons. Stewart and Luke got the best results, plenty of fish landed and Stewart got a 74cm Snapper, and Luke with a 71cm specimen.

A great weekend on the water, and look forward to the next one.

UGLY FISH EYEWEAR - A MUST SEE

Ugly Fish Eyewear has been around since 2001, in that time they have managed to grow a great company from little more than a backyard shed to a rather large conglomerate offering athletes and the general public quality eyewear. Seeking to narrow the gap on comfort and functionality they built up a large range of products that are just as effective dealing with the suns harmful U.V rays as they are dealing with the scrutiny of general public fashion senses.

There are many sunglasses on the market offering top range attributes but high costing varies highly, keeping many brands out of reach of consumers. One thing Ugly Fish did (Intentionally or not) was cut the market wide open. Knowing what eyewear suits you is one of the harder lessons in life, Ugly Fish makes finding the right pair a little easier. With everything from polarised, photo chromic lenses, shatterproof options to dealers Australia and world wide (Limited lifetime warranty) there really is a model for everyone.

As a sponsored Ugly Fish Athlete I was able to tour their facilities and check out the products first hand. The ‘Sports Polarised, Plastic Frame’ range was deemed the right fit on my cranium, the ‘Tornado’ model fitment and differing brown polarised lens colour help enhance my fishing experience no matter what time of day. Salt or fresh I always feel confident wearing them, with the ‘Floating Strap’ accessory adjusted behind my cap piece of mind is easily achieved.

I definitely recommend a trip to their website when looking for an eyewear option. From store / stockist locators, quick find range feature, product search options, technical specifications, support down to bio’s on sponsored athletes and downloadable wallpapers. Some of the images they have online are truly unbelievable, skydiving and base jumping antics fuel adrenaline wants while the promotional images of the models sell sex (And bucket loads of products too!).

http://www.uglyfisheyewear.com

HOBIE CAT 'PRO ANGLER' TAKES OUT ICAST 2009

For Immediate Release
Mary Jane Williamson, Communications director
mjwilliamson@asafishing.org, 703-519-9691, x227

www.asafishing.org

Sportfishing Industry Awards 2009 " Best of Show" Honors Fifteen companies take tops honors during world's largestsportfishing trade show

July 16, 2009 - Orlando, Fla. – ICAST 2009, the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades, the world’s largest sportfishing tradeshow, is in full swing from July 15-17, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla. Over 7,200 representatives from the sportfishing industry, including over 2,200 buyers and over 500 media representatives, are gathered to see the latest innovations in tackle, gear and apparel and network with the global sportfishing community. The sportfishing industry’s premier trade event is produced by the American Sportfishing Association (ASA), the industry’s trade association which is headquartered in Alexandria, Va.

This year, the 52nd year of ICAST, the New Product Showcase, the tradeshow’s flagship event, was more competitive than ever. Sponsored by ESPN Outdoors/BASS, 208 exhibiting companies entered 600 tackle products and accessories into the New Product Showcase. The product category with the most product submissions was the hard lure category. This year the Hobie Cat Mirage Pro Angler, both a boat and a kayak, was voted by buyers and media as the most innovative product in the ICAST 2009 New Product Showcase in both the Marine category and the overall “Best of Show.”

This year’s New Product Showcase winner’s also included first-time ICAST exhibitors Cablz, Inc., USA Custom Rods and Better Bait Systems. Eight returning ICAST exhibitors were also first-time winners. They are: Durasafe, Master Vision, Ross Reels USA/Ross Worldwide Outdoors, Sebile USA and Hobie Cat. Three 2008 showcase winners — Shimano American Corporation, Pure Fishing and Plano Molding Company – also won won Best of Show honors in 2009.

“Each year, I am amazed by the quality of new products that are unveiled at the New Product Showcase and this year was no different,” said Mike Nussman, ASA’s president and CEO. “I congratulate all of the winners and everyone who participated in the New Product Showcase, from the companies who worked hard to develop these innovations to the buyers and media who served as judges.”

Making up a special section of ICAST’s 400,000-square-foot show floor, the New Product Showcase provides special visibility for the industry’s latest innovations in gear and accessories. Buyers and media representatives judged the products based on their levels of innovation, execution, workmanship and practicality to select “Best of Show” honors in 17 categories, as well as the overall “Best of Show” winner.

Custom Rods and Better Bait Systems. Eight returning ICAST exhibitors were also first-time winners. They are: Durasafe, Master Vision, Ross Reels USA/Ross Worldwide Outdoors, Sebile USA and Hobie Cat. Three 2008 showcase winners — Shimano American Corporation, Pure Fishing and Plano Molding Company – also won won Best of Show honors in 2009.“Each year, I am amazed by the quality of new products that are unveiled at the New Product Showcase and this year was no different,” said Mike Nussman, ASA’s president and CEO. “I congratulate all of the winners and everyone who participated in the New Product Showcase, from the companies who worked hard to develop these innovations to the buyers and media who served as judges.”

Making up a special section of ICAST’s 400,000-square-foot show floor, the New Product Showcase provides special visibility for the industry’s latest innovations in gear and accessories. Buyers and media representatives judged the products based on their levels of innovation, execution, workmanship and practicality to select “Best of Show” honors in 17 categories, as well as the overall “Best of Show” winner.

2009 ICAST New Product Showcase Award Winners

For product details, images and other information please contact the individual award winners listed below.

Overall Best of Show –

Hobie Cat – Hobie Mirage Pro Angler Contact: Vince Console: 760-271-8980; vconsole@hobiecat.com
Apparel – Cablz, Inc. – Cablz Contact: Holly Williams: 205-222-4477; holly@cablzeyewear.com
Combo – Pure Fishing – Pflueger Arbor Combo Contact: Ron Giudice, Blue Heron Communications – cell: 405-740-2740, office: 405-364-3433; ron@blueheroncomm.com Andrew Wheeler, Project Manager - 803 451 3245
Electronics – Lowrance-Navico – Lowrance HDS-10 Contact: Gordon Sprouse – 918-607-6670; gordon.sprouse@navico.com
Eyewear – Costa Del Mar Sunglasses – Zane Contact: Dave Bulthuis – 561-866-0972, 800-447-3700 x114; dbulthuis@costadelmar.com
Fishing Accessory – Durasafe – Codeable Locks Contact: Cathy Kraatz – 262-544-5615; ckraatz@durasafe-usa.com
Giftware - Master Vision – Mini Lantern Contact: Gary G. Goerke – 715-493-6749; ggoerke@mastervisionlight.com Eli McCabe – 715-216-2443; emccabe@mastervisionlight.com
Kids Tackle – Ross Reels USA/Ross Worldwide Outdoors – Journey Youth Fly Fishing Outfit Contact: Brad Befus – 970-596-3050; bradbefus@rossreels.com
Line – Pure Fishing – Berkley Trilene TransOptic Contact: Ron Giudice, Blue Heron Communications – cell: 405-740-2740, office: 405-364-3433; ron@blueheroncomm.com Clay Norris – cell: 405-740-2740, office: 405-364-3433, product manager
Soft Lure – Sebile USA – Magic Swimmer Soft Pro Model Contact – Cystal Dollahon, Dollahon PR – cell: 918-607-3655, office: 918-894-4455; crystal@dollahonpr.com
Hard Lure – Sebile USA – Spin Shad Contact: Cystal Dollahon, Dollahon PR – cell: 918-607-3655, office: 918-894-4455; crystal@dollahonpr.com

Marine - Hobie Cat – Hobie Mirage Pro Angler Contact: Vince Console - 760-271-8980; vconsole@hobiecat.com
Freshwater Reel – Shimano American Corporation – Stradic CI4 Contact: John Mazurkiewicz, Catalyst Marketing – 574-289-1331; jpmazurk@ameritech.net
Saltwater Reel – Daiwa – Saltist Lever Drag Contact: Terry Pederson – 562-802-9589; terryp@daiwa.com
Freshwater Rod – USA Custom Rods – Camo Stix Contact: Dennis Ball – 832-665-1854; usacustomrods@aol.com; camofishingrods@gmail.com
Saltwater Rod – G. Loomis – Pro Green 882S Contact: John Mazurkiewicz, Catalyst Marketing – 574-289-1331; jpmazurk@ameritech.net
Tackle Management – Plano Molding Company – Liqua-Bait Locker System Contact: Douglass Riewski – 630-552-9448; driewski@planomolding.com
Terminal Tackle – Better Bait Systems – Circle Hook Rig Contact: Charles Fricke – 305-481-0849; betterbaitsys@yahoo.com

In 2010, ICAST will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, from July 14-16, 2010. ICAST 2011 will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, from July 13-15, 2011.

The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) is the sportfishing industry’s trade association, committed to looking out for the interests of the entire sportfishing community. We give the industry a unified voice speaking out when emerging laws and policies could significantly affect sportfishing business or sportfishing itself. We invest in long-term ventures to ensure the industry will remain strong and prosperous as well as safeguard and promote the enduring economic and conservation values of sportfishing in America. ASA also represents the interests of America’s 60 million anglers who generate over $45 billion in retail sales with a $125 billion impact on the nation’s economy creating employment for over one million people.

SNAPPER SESSION - DEPOT BEACH, NSW 11/7/09

Jason 'Squidder' Price with a solid Snapper, technique explained below :

Winter in Canberra is tough, the native species shut down and even most of the Redfin take a snooze. Luckily for us it also coincides with the spawning run of Cuttlefish in many south coast areas. With confirmed reports of big Snapper fought and lost so close to home (Minimal drive) we had to get stuck into it before it was all over for another year... Dont need to twist my dodgy arm twice!

Previous success at this same spot has shown two things, trolling deep diving hard bodies works and so do various soft plastics. Many have tried the latter with no real accomplishment but its freakishly popular and pays the bills (Food bills that is). Some styles of plastics work better than others, same with scents and colours. The standard moulding of choice is definitely a flick bait under over 5”, brandings matter least as the action imparted is what draws your fate.

Depot Beach is hot or cold, wild or kind… It’s the kind of place you would take a loved one for a picnic. Tame Kangaroo’s without a care in the world slop around on the beach, enjoying what tourism North Durras can muster. It’s also a rather shallow bay like structure that has an average water depth of 10m before deepness starts protruding past the headlands. Often sheltered by Wasp Island, it is home to long undulating gravel pits, sandy bottoms and large seals.

On the day in question we arrived mid way through the changing of the tide, water conditions were chunkier than expected but the calm onshore winds topped off any dramatic effect Mother Nature could throw at us. With high tide holding my previous 8m marks were now in over 10m of water, the fish had moved and trolling my infamous lure proved pointless. Still I gave it a few hours anyway, glancing over and my group of friends landing decent size reds saw me change to a small Atomic Jerk Shad for immediate results (Cant beat them, imitate them!).

Popularised by bait techniques, a dead sticking drift approach covered more water, depth and structure with serious results. Couple of weeks ago Craig bagged out on this technique; while I caught the fish of the day trolling it just didn’t seem fair to be honest. Not till I tried it did I realise how these Snapper were reacting to plastics, picking them off the bottom and running like hell. Rod lifts and flicks worked but the repetitive singular bottom bounce stopped spooking fish and produced the goods.

When the tide transformed the weather changed, white caps and 15 knot winds took the fish out of the equation. They were still there but very flighty, almost like something was bugging them. Some Pelagic activity was noted earlier in the day but what it was I am not so sure, bait balls busting up could have been caused by Dolphins, Sharks or even Wally Walrus (No cast proved fruitful unfortunately). Even the pest species packed up and went home, so we do the same. By catch was limited to Wrasse, Pike and the occasional Oogly. The Trevally and Flathead of yesteryear were most probably crouching tiger, hidden rock face to be honest.

The more I fish this location the more I learn, bit like a tap. It runs goes hot or cold, jams, shakes, leaks and gushes with action. With a full moon previous we expected greater results, a couple of 60cm Snapper were boated though which made for some great fillets and bragging rights. The only other successful way I can think of fishing the area is with live bait, something like a Slimey or a Yakka. Much has been written on live baiting for Snapper, unfortunately I might just have to catch some elsewhere and translocate them (Sans bust up, the Snapper have eaten them all!).

'PIMPING' AND 'UPGRADING' YOUR KAYAK

The following article was written for new members of http://www.hobiefishing.com.au/ to offer guidance and inspiration to one and all. These are not rules of thumb as such, more of one persons approach to modification that relys on the eye of the beholder. Its an artform that can be taken too far or not far enough, one that suceeds to master the in bewteen will be better off fishing from the platform... Read on people:

Introduction:

Rigging a kayak is a very personal thing; in fact many people like to approach it like they would a new car. With numerous optional extras that can be fitted aftermarket, rigging your kayak is fun, healthy and strangely addictive. Some set up their kayaks with an intention in mind (Offshore work, estuary); some prefer the bare bones strategy of less is best, focussing on maximum deck space and minimum fuss.

There is even the all out approach that can involve the use of metres upon metres of PVC tubing, navigation lights and external fixtures. Whichever direction you choose, rest assured that form and functionality still have a place onboard, even when ‘Pimping’ or upgrading your craft to the max. I would like to share with you my rigging experiences from both sides of the spectrum, using my trusty 2006 Hobie Quest and my tandem kayak, the much loved 2006 Hobie Outfitter as conclusion tools.

2006 Hobie Quest specifications –

Length: 3.96m 13'0" Width: 0.72m 28.5" Hull Weight: 25.84 kg 57 lbs. Capacity: 158.76 kg 350 lbs.

The original Kayak was purchased brand new from a Hobie Dealer, this came with a rudder system, the dry bag, Hobie cooler bag and single rod holder. I purchased an additional 8" Hobie hatch, a Humminbird Piranha Max10 fishfinder, a 12v 3.3AH Sealed rechargeable battery, tube of black marine grade Sikaflex and some stainless steel self tapping screws to mount various odds and ends (All details and fittings listed below).

The Hobie Quest is a dream to rig but certain attention to detail must be sought, especially when it comes to additional forward rod holder placement and paddling stroke. Apart from mounting the Hobie / Scotty rod holder (Drilling a bare hull is slightly perplexing at first) The installation of the fishfinder was one of my first priorities, choosing a relatively cheap model sounder with a low pixel count that would still allow good depth sighting and general bed contours.

Sitting in the bare hull allowed for future movement theories once the rod holder mount was placed unattached, forward of the seated position. Paying attention to the Scotty inboard mark the mount was aligned for drilling, a soft gasket was included for use under the mount (Thus eliminating the use of Sikaflex or another bonding agent). After checking my paddle stroke, the area I researched for placement was marked and initial drill hole was made under the mount big enough to pass the transducer plug and battery plug through into the hull of the Quest.

Cords remaining above deck were adjusted to a suitable length required and a blot of Sikaflex was added to the base of the mount in the area that would channel the cords. The mount was then screwed into place permanently with the supplied self tapping screws that came with the Piranha Max10 unit. The final application of Sikaflex was applied under the mount where the cables protrude out, sealing it water tight for good.

Instructional Image - Hobie Quest Sounder Install DIY.


Instuctional Image - Hobie Quest Transducer Install DIY.


I decided to go with a hidden in hull transducer mount (Opposed to an external deck mount), located slightly forward of the middle 8” hatch and almost below the mount. Starting by sanding the hull with some course sandpaper, I then began sanding the bottom of the transducer lightly with some lighter grade paper. After aligning the transducer so it was straight and facing the right direction, a thick squirt of Sikaflex was added on the bottom of the transducer and then firmly but carefully placed onto the hull (Making sure to avoid bubbling whilst bedding).

Then I applied a decent amount of Sikaflex around the sides, front and rear of the transducer all whilst maintaining a mess free environment (Please note: other brands of sealant can work just as well). Remaining transducer cord was coiled internally around a scupper mast, with any adjustment of cable placement to be determined after Sikaflex had dried (Please note: recommended drying time – minimum 5 days). With the transducer located between both scupper masts a cut pool noodle wedges in front to stop any damage from larger objects placed in the hull for transport (This can include big fish!).

A small, snap lock Tupperware style container houses my battery and whilst not fully waterproof, handles the job well without promoting corrosion or energy loss. To keep this stable and in place some Velcro strips were first glued onto the bottom of the container, and then adhered into the hull using industrial strength plastic glue.

Installing the hatch proved easier than I first thought, the internal ring of the hatch was drawn onto area of placement (Rear Hobie logo encased in circular recess) on the top of the kayak. First a decent hole was drilled allowing some electric tinsnips to easily cut the circumference of the circle whilst following the area marked (Handheld tinsnips / Jigsaw blade would also work).

Instructional Image - Hobie Quest 8" Hatch Install DIY.


Instructional Image - Hobie Quest 8" Hatch Install DIY.


After some small filling of edges the hatch fell into place perfectly, internal ring was placed right way up inside the kayak while the hatch gasket and twist and stow cover were aligned and carefully drilled into place using marine grade stainless steel bolts. Extra self tapping 316 stainless steel screws were bought from my local chandlery store (Hobie hatch comes with 2 screws only). No Sikaflex was applied to any part of the hatch during installation due to the gasket bonding with a tight seal on the deck

A Ram mount for my GPS was purchased and bolted on behind the fishfinder on the slanted section at the end of the moulded tackle tray (Again with 316 marine grade stainless steel bolts). Because I sit above eye level these seem to line up without getting in the way of each other (Allowing my line of sight on the GPS to be perfect). A small amount of Sikaflex was placed around the bolt holes to stop any water ingress; I still had some Sikaflex left over and a few more jobs in mind.

I added another universal raised mount for my Scotty Marine Light on top of the rear hatch, mounted with 316 grade stainless steel bolts and Sikaflex for a tight finish. This still allows full use of the hatch in conjunction with the waterproof light but only opens about 90% due to clearance (Small dry bag stash spot or perhaps something not needed on an hourly basis).

Also procured a 1.5l camelback hydration system and mounted it onto the Quest seat by tightening buckles and threading on through arms of seat system. The older Quest seats have nothing behind or attached to them, so my paddling posture is still forward and correct. I always have the forward seat straps pulled as far as possible to force myself to sit up while paddling so this creates a small amount of room behind the seat.

Instructional Image - Hobie Quest 8" Hatch Install DIY.


Instructional Image - Hobie Quest Scotty Mount / Sea Light Install DIY.


To finish the kayak for its intended multi rod purpose, a Scotty Triple Mount rod system (Scotty No. 257) was purchased to replace the single mounted method, along with a Hobie Rod Holder extension (For use in the right rear moulded in rod holder). Already owning two Hobie rod spinning holders (Scotty No. 280) left a gap in the middle of the bar, an additional Fly rod holder (Scotty No. 265) was acquired for use.

The last remaining item still needed to be installed is a Hobie Anchor Trolley Kit, however as I wont be venturing offshore till the coming winter Snapper season I have purchased and put this off. The Anchor Trolley will allow the deployment of a drogue or chute to slow drift rates, albeit in a safer manner than just tethering. I still use a 1.5kg folding grapnel anchor in safe waters without a trolley when needed but this is mainly used in fine weather conditions and retrieved when swells are greater than 2m.

For shallow water scenarios the drift chute can be safely attached to the kayak using a Clam cleat but an avenue I find better is to use a Hobie Stake out Pole (Pegged through the Quest’s front Scupper holes). This is an exceptional tool that prides itself on working flawlessly with the Anchor Trolley Kit, allowing placement forward or aft of the seated position (Dependant on tide, wind and general weather).

Recently I purchased a Hobie Live Well for use in the current ABT Hobie Kayak Tournaments, installing on the back of the Quest to meet tournament requirements. I was pleasantly surprised with a personal report from Steve Fields saying that the battery testing conducted at the Huskisson factory lasted 13hrs of continuous running. The Attwood pump self primes with forward movement and comes complete with everything needed to run smoothly.

Its 25l capacity is more than enough to keep two big Bream alive, which was evident and indicative of Wayne Robinsons’ winning bag at the inaugural Sydney event. Coming complete with three built in rod holders this completes my Quest’s bid as a serious competition fishing machine, I now have the ability to carry up to eight multiple rods at any one time (Subject to state laws).


Hobie Outfitter specifications –

Length: 3.86m 12'8" Width: 0.86m 34" Hull Weight: 32.66kg 72 lbs. Capacity: 204 kg 450 lbs.

Before I became confident drilling into polyethylene everything I added to my Hobie Outfitter was external. From straight off the showroom shelf it came with everything one could dream of for fishing, sans fishing rods and tackle plus the diverse odd couple. After covering ‘Pimping’ aspects of Kayak rigging this is a good example of what can be achieved from an upgrade point of view.

A few simple, cost effective purchases can improve the comfort of your ride whilst enjoying its built in features. At first this Kayak housed everything but the kitchen sink, now I just enjoy simply setting it up stock standard for ease of use (With the following upgrades) and sharing the experience of Kayak Fishing with family and friends on a basic level.

After weeks of learning how to use my Outfitter to its full potential (Including solo use) I finally decided on what was needed, a removable fishfinder, a set of Turbo fins for the rear and a large sailing rudder. Fitting the larger rudder is more of an upgrade than anything else, undoing the nylock nuts and bolting on a new one required little more than a couple of minutes. Rather than opting for a double set of Turbo fins monies negated a singular purchase which improved speed by a few kmph and thus effectively quickened the turning circle.

The instructions for install are pretty straight forward but please be warned; this upgrade increases rapid momentum and ultimately excess pressure. Older versions of Mirage drives (Eliminated on 2009 V2) fitted with Turbo fins can fail under extreme strain in certain situations so use lightly, sparingly and correctly to decrease any susceptible sprocket damage.

Instructional Image - Hobie Outfitter Removable Fishfinder Install DIY.


Instructional Image - Hobie Outfitter Removable Fishfinder Install DIY.


My removable fishfinder mount was created for my initial need for water temp readings, but refined for depth allowing a detachable system mounted on the kayak externally that can be removed and included on the kayak before launching. This method has been tailored to my Hobie Outfitter and could easily be modified to fit any other yak on the market with scuppers and drink holders.

The unit where the fishfinder head (In this case another Piranha max10) is mounted needed to be portable, sturdy and rigid enough while retaining maximum stability. It consists of 2 x modular 90mm PVC screw ends with a small section of 90mm PVC to allow the ends to flush mount into each other. A 90mm PVC screw on cap is used for the top with a 100mm push on lid placed firmly on top to form a serious bind (Also used to house any remaining transducer cord and the 8 x AA 2500ah rechargeable battery box).

The transducer is mounted on some stiff but flexible hose style plastic tubing (think ribbed grey water pipe) with a solid bolt, covered by a modified Hobie scupper plug reversed to protect the hull from the boot. This manages to stay neatly attached inside the scupper hole with remaining transom cord housed within the PVC, coiled enough to provide a custom and stretch free environment.

To install simply feed transducer cord (Coiled up skinny enough to pass through the scupper hole using a bundled effect) and plastic pipe through from underneath the yak onto the deck and in through the PVC system. Thread both the battery and transducer plugs from the bottom of the PVC tower up and out through the grommet to the head unit, then place securely in the drink holder (The above dimensions offer a perfect fit on an Outfitter).

Instructional Image - Hobie Outfitter Removable Transducer Install DIY.


Instructional Image - Hobie Outfitter Removable Transducer Install DIY.


This is a very neat design that is fairly east to install for use on the water, just place the kayak safely on its side at the waters edge and follow the instructions above. Like all things external the only fret would be scraping or flexing the actual transducer boot upon launching or landing (Simply being aware can avoid this). Most of the hardware used to construct this was purchased at a Bunning’s store, rechargeable batteries, battery housing, electrical tape and snap attachments from Dick Smith.

After initial testing the transducer cord loop was extended to twice its size, mainly due to stiffness and pack ability inside the modular mount (Small cable ties hold in position). I find myself leaving the fishfinder system behind these days, using polarised sunglasses and the touch and feel of the Mirage Drive to gauge depth. The Kayak is now pulled straight off the roof racks and ready to go, no mess or additional fuss.

One of the more special, unknown features on the Outfitter was exposed to me through Rob Paxevanos and his informative TV show, ‘Fishing Australia’. With double the amount of drives onboard, one set of Mirage Drives can be placed in a backwards configuration. In calm water situations this will allow one user to propel forward while the other user can slow a drift rate or reverse away from snags, ultimately getting you closer to the action and within casting distance of shy, shutdown fish.

Conclusion:

I hope from reading this article you can determine how important it is to be comfortable in your Kayaks surroundings and your ability first before fully rigging your ride. Learning how your kayak handles is as important as finding its limits safely, excelling in some areas may give you better ideas on what you want out of your yak. Many other aftermarket options have not been mentioned as they are not applicable to my fishing techniques; however they may (And can always) be implemented in future years to come.

NSW SOUTH COAST FISHING REPORT - 7/7/09

Estuaries:

Rivers and lakes along the NSW south coast remain relatively quiet with only a few reports of Bream, Trevally and Tailor coming in lately. The anglers putting in the time and effort have been rewarded with some good fish despite the cool water temperature. Some very healthy Black Bream have been captured in the upper reaches of the local estuaries, and once a school is located you can have some very exciting sessions. When fishing the brackish upper reaches of the estuaries, Estuary perch are a common by-catch and they must be released as there is currently a closed season for Estuary perch in place until the 1st of September.

Rock Fishing:

South coast rock platforms continue to fire with some outstanding results reported. Drummer have been reliable and in good size and numbers, with one Drummer caught in the Batemans Bay area measured in at 53cm and an estimated weight of approximately 4kg caught and released by 15 year old angler Bradley Hasler fishing lightly weighted cabbage weed in the wash. Some good Snapper have also been reported up to 6kg from various rock platforms with a majority suggesting fresh squid as the best bait at the moment, but most fresh baits, especially slimey mackeral or yellowtail yakka's with a good burley trail will get you onto some good fishing.

Jewfish are another possibility if you choose the right area along with the tide. One local angler reported 15 Jewfish up to 8kg in 2 short sessions fishing 7 inch Gulp jerkshads at the very top of the tide late in the afternoon. Although 8kg is not considered a big Jewfish, the numbers certainly make up for it, all fish were released to fight another day. Salmon and Tailor have been around in good numbers as well, casting metal slug lures or soft plastics will often tempt these fish with a fast retreive.

Beaches:

Almost any of the South coast surf beaches have been providing some excellent fishing. Good numbers of big salmon are common in the deeper gutters especially during the incoming tide in the last 2 hours before the high. Bream are around in good numbers as well but the Tailor have been a little harder to find.

Inshore reefs:

Plenty of Snapper are around in approximately 8m of water, with most anglers reporting at least a few fish each session and some real thumpers in amongst them too. A few reports of Blue Worwong and Nannygai's have been thrown in as well. 5 inch Gulp jerkshads or Squidgie flickbaits have been a personal favourite on a 1/8th jighead with a 5/0 hook size, jighead weight will need to be adjusted according to drift speed or water depth but 1/8th has been my preffered weight in 8m in most scenario's with a slow lift and drop technique with many of the Snapper hitting the lure on the drop.

CARPOLOGY - 'BIDGEE SPORT FISHING 4/7/09

Something different, learned a lot too...

Carp eat Powerbait nuggets, accompanied with some corn kernels anyway. They also eat worms in various forms (Including Scrub Worms). A group of 'Bidgee boys fished just downstream from us and landed bugger all, even with massive surface action dead ahead of them. How did we do so well, three fish over a couple of hours is far from it unfortunately. However, our rigs were disturbed on numerous occasions due to attention to detail, presentation and location.

I cant recall the last time I went fishing for Carp (Wait, yes I can). Needless to say it was in my mid 20's and close to 10 years ago with very limited success. Our Kayak Fishing Adventures are normally based around superior species so we rarely tangle with these genus (Sans Tallowa trip). With monster swells down the coast and a very unpredictable forecast for the alpine region we chose to stay local and stay off the water.

With the native population shut down and Redfin a diamond dozen are only option was to watch TV or chase some Euro invaders. Trekking down towards the lower 'Bidgee we followed a feeder creek below the main Tuggeranong spillway fishing as we went. Small pooled areas greeted us on many corners and whilst probably holding fish the normal activity signs were non-apparent. Still we fished them for moments in time, not without trying.

As we hit the 'Bidgee it obviously opened up a new can of worms. Loud and noisy Carp could be heard splashing in the distance. We set up on a prominent mark fishing both the exit of the creek and the muddy main. The fishing was slow for an hour but eventually the kernels did the trick, bringing localised fish into our vicinity. The first rig to take off was an experimental one, one chartruese Powerbait nugget accompanied by two corn kernels.

The noisy drag of the small Seido reel woke me from my boredom slumber. Any fish was a good fish as these were being kept to manifest into Snapper tucker for a later date. Jason pitched a heavier presented Scrub Worm into the faster current that was picked up while we were taking happy snaps of fish number one. By the time he got to rod it was almost all over with the Carp close to reaching a monsters snag.

Setting up the video quickly I was able to capture some of the more intimate moments Jason shared with this fish. It was rubbing, wrestling and struggling but stayed up top (Going deep would have easily earned it freedom). It took a good tussle to bring it in, some fancy rod work was definately required (More Snapper bait). The action died down somewhat after that, I had some close calls with moving lines, dropped baits and one clever Carp.

In the end the smart ass lost, mouthing the kernel husk one too many times. Three or four times previous I had watched line move off and even the rod bend (Each time feeling the bait slip out of its mouth). Just before we packed up I witnessed it again, this time though I fed more slack and waited and waited and waited. The line sort of froze after a couple of minutes so was suprised that when I placed weight on the retrieve a small Carp came to the bank (About the size of a decent Redfin).

Darkness set in and the weather grew even colder, we bid fairwell to the 'Bidgee. People shun Carp and I understand why, menacing feral species that not only help destroy native fish habitat but also bring scourge among our lands. I saw a different side today, the side of sport. Sure they pull hard and take line, but thats not exactly what I am refering to. Over the next couple of months I will try to explain my conclusion, whilst further studying the art of Carpology.

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THE KFA.NET.AU TEAM MEMBERS (NEW MEMBER)

CRAIG '450' COUGHLAN

• Industry: Automotive
• Occupation: Spraypainter
• Location: Batemans Bay : NSW : Australia
• Kayaks Owned: Stealth BFS, Hobie Quest
• Years Kayak Fishing:
• Other Interests:

ABOUT ‘450’

I grew up in Canberra fishing the local rivers and impoundments for Native freshwater species and regularly travelled to the Snowy mountain lakes for trout. I made the move from Canberra down to the NSW South coast and enjoy fishing for all types of fish from the many beaches, rocks, estuaries and inshore reefs along the coast.





JASON 'SQUIDDER' PRICE

• Industry: Science
• Occupation: Research Scientist
• Location: Canberra : ACT : Australia
• Kayaks Owned: Cobra Fish ‘N’ Dive, Hobie Quest
• Years Kayak Fishing:
• Other Interests:

ABOUT ‘SQUIDDER’

I enjoy fishing Canberra's local impoundments, Lake Jindabyne in the Snowy Mountains, and the estauries and inshore reefs of the NSW South Coast. I prefer to fish with hard-bodied and soft plastic lures, and ultra-light tackle.





DEREK 'PAFFOH' STEELE

• Industry: Hospitality
• Occupation: Small Business
• Location: Canberra : A.C.T : Australia
• Kayaks Owned: Hobie Quest, Hobie Outfitter
• Years Kayak Fishing: 5 years
• Current Sponsors: Hobie Fishing Team, Ugly Fish Eyewear
• Other Interests: Offroading, Design, Fishing Journalism

ABOUT ‘PAFFOH’

Proud Member of the Hobie State Fishing Team. I currently own and endorse Hobie Kayaks / Ugly Fish Eyewear as well as use Daiwa, Team Daiwa, Berkley, G Loomis, Abu Garcia, Nitro, Penn, Sage, Wilson & Shimano rods, reels and tackle.

PATRICK 'PATWAH' CURRAN

• Industry: Government
• Occupation: Border Protection
• Location: Canberra : A.C.T : Australia
• Kayaks Owned: Wavedance Kingfisher
• Years Kayak Fishing: 2 years
• Other Interests: Fly tying, Camping

ABOUT ‘PATWAH’

After growing up in Canberra and cutting my teeth on the bread and bitter species of the South Coast, I relocated to the top end to tackle tropical species in and around Darwin. Having moved back to the ACT in 2007, I am rediscovering old skills and refining them, (under the tutorledge of KFA members) to chase species on the South Coast of New South Wales and the local Canberra lakes. Negotiating a small stream with fly rod in hand is my ideal challenge.