Navigating Unsettled Waters

Weathering the Storms: Fishing Highlights Amidst Unstable Conditions

The past week on the Gold and Tweed Coasts brought forth a challenging mix of storms, rain squalls, and consistent northerly winds, creating an unstable weather pattern. However, in between these bouts of weather, anglers found opportunities to venture out and pursue their favourite catch. As we look ahead to the weekend, the forecast indicates lingering rain, making conditions a bit unpredictable. Sunday seems to be the most promising day, with easing swells and lighter winds, albeit with some showers in the forecast. Always stay informed with the latest weather updates before setting out on your fishing expedition.

Offshore Adventures: Snapper, Dolphin Fish, and More

Despite the weather challenges, offshore fishing has been rewarding for those who timed their outings well. Selecting the right weather window proved crucial, and Sunday appears to be the standout day with a favorable wind forecast. Noteworthy catches include a impressive 90cm Snapper by Terry Vince off the Gold Coast. The 36 and 50 fathom reefs, dependent on the current, have yielded good catches of Snapper, Pearl Perch, Tusk Fish, Yellow Tail Kingfish, Amberjack, and Samson. Fads in the same depths have attracted Dolphin fish. In closer proximity, the 18 and 24 fathoms reefs have seen success with Snapper, Moses Perch, Tusk Fish, Trag Jew, Maori Cod, and Spotted Mackerel making an early-season appearance. Recommended baits include live Yakka’s, Slimy Mackerel, WA Pilchards, Whole Large Squid, Bonito Fillet, and Mullet Fillet.

Whiting Wonders: Pursuing Feeds in Rainy Conditions

For those targeting Whiting, the week has offered favorable conditions, despite potential disruptions from rain. Locations such as the Nerang River, Currumbin Creek, Tallebudgera Creek, and others have produced good results. Live Bloodworms, Beachworms, and Yabbies have proven effective as bait. A light rod with a sensitive tip and the right tackle, including a 6 to 9lb mainline, 6lb fluorocarbon trace, 3 or 4 ball sinker, and a bait holder hook, enhance the chances of a successful catch.

Mangrove Jacks and Predators: Exploring River Fishing Opportunities

Mangrove Jack fishing has been fruitful in the Nerang and Coomera Rivers, with good schools of Herring and Mullet attracting predators. Targeting jetties, pontoons, bridges, and rock walls in these areas has proven successful. Techniques such as casting hard body lures or Zman minnows, along with bait fishing using Live or well-presented dead baits like Herring, Mullet, Silver Biddies, and Pike, have yielded positive results.

Shark Adventures: Chasing Bulls in Unsettled Waters

Given the current weather conditions, targeting Bull Sharks presents an exciting option. These predators are actively hunting bait in various waterways, offering a thrilling experience for anglers. A medium to heavy estuary combo with 20 to 30lb mono or braided line, a nylon-coated wire trace (50 to 100lb), and a size 6 to 9 hook, paired with freshwater eel or pike eel bait, is recommended. Popular spots include the Coomera River, Saltwater Creek, Paradise Point, local canals, Nerang River, Pimpama River, Jacobs Well, and the Logan River. However, handling sharks requires caution due to their sharp teeth and unpredictable behaviour. Be sure to follow bag and size limits and handle them responsibly for a potential tasty treat if handled properly.

Quotes from the Boats

“There has been great catches of Snapper being caught on the wider grounds also Kingfish. In closer good catches of Jewfish leading up to the full moon also with Dollys making a return this week too on the fads.”

LINKS & INFO 

If you have any great catches or photos you would like to share, please email us and let us know how you went. mail@coomerahouseboats.com.au.

Stay up to date with all fishing regulations in Queensland https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/business-priorities/fisheries

Hire a tinnie with your Coomera Houseboat hire to maximise your fishing range on the water:  http://www.coomerahouseboats.com.au/our-fleet-type/hire-tinnies/     

Seabreeze is a great website to access a local forecast http://www.seabreeze.com.au/graphs/  

Good luck with the Fishing. Brett