Weather’s Influence on Fishing Conditions

The weather has once again played a significant role in shaping fishing options on the Gold and Tweed Coast this week. Strong hot northerly winds at the start of the week, followed by an even stronger south/southeasterly change peaking on Friday, brought with it a massive swell offshore and a few showers, making for less-than-ideal fishing conditions. Anglers had to seek sheltered spots to try their luck. As of the time of writing, the weekend ahead doesn’t look promising for fishing. It might be a good time to sort out your fishing gear, visit your local tackle shop, or perform some boat maintenance. Always check the most up-to-date weather forecast before heading out. Now, let’s delve into what’s been biting.

Offshore Adventures

The weather last Saturday turned out better than forecasted. Boats that ventured offshore early were rewarded with good-sized Snapper being landed from the 18 to 24 fathom reefs off the Seaway. However, with the current forecast, offshore fishing will be off-limits over the coming weekend. When the wind eases and the swell drops, it will be an excellent time to head out, especially after a big swell, as it tends to stir up the fish on the shallow reefs. The Gold Coast Seaway is a notable spot for catching some sizeable Snapper. In closer waters, the 18 to 24 fathom reefs have been productive, offering a variety of species, including Snapper, Silver Jew, Moses Perch, Trag Jew, Maori Cod, Spangled Emperor, Tusk Fish, and the occasional Cobia. As the water temperature rises, we can expect Mackerel to make an appearance. Further out on the 36 and 50 fathom grounds, there have been plenty of Dolphin Fish near the fish aggregating devices (fads). They’ve been taking live baits, WA Pilchards, soft plastics, and surface lures.

Flathead Fishing Extravaganza

The Wilson Elite Flathead series recently concluded on the Gold Coast, showcasing the fantastic fishery the Coast has to offer. Teams competing caught and released numerous Flathead, some reaching up to the mid-80cm size range. Flathead fishing has been excellent this year, and as the breeding season winds down and the water temperature rises, the fish will disperse more throughout the local waterways. While you may need to explore a bit more to find better numbers, there will still be plenty of fish available. Trolling hard body lures in shallower water depths is an effective way to locate fish. Key areas like Wave Break Island, Crab Island, Rat Island, Brown Island, Coomera River, Aldershots, Neverfails, Jacobs Well, Tiger Mullet Channel, Cabbage Tree Point, Logan River, and Russell Island are all prime spots to try your luck. Keep an eye out for bait, as fish tend to hang around the general area, waiting for a passing feed. Other successful methods include casting soft plastics, working soft vibes, fishing the shallows with surface lures, and using larger swim baits and big hard bodies for the chance of landing a big fish.

Sand Crab Bounty

The past week has seen some promising catches of Sand Crabs. For those willing to put in the effort to set pots around the Broadwater and Jumpinpin area, better numbers of good-sized crabs have been available. Leaving pots out overnight can be a gamble due to sharefarmers, but the longer you can soak the pots, the better the results tend to be. Target the edges of sandbanks, weed beds, and the drop-offs to the main channels where crabs often move through. Mullet and fresh fish frames make excellent bait, and using a bait bag is a smart idea to prevent small fish, eels, and crabs from stealing the bait.

Summer Species on the Rise

The warmer weather has started to fire up the summer species, with consistent catches of Mangrove Jack in recent weeks. It’s worth noting that the southeast change can make fish more lethargic, resulting in a slower bite. Despite this, the rivers currently hold good schools of herring, which make excellent bait for Mangrove Jack. These baits have also attracted Estuary Cod and nice-sized Trevally in the same areas. There are numerous land-based fishing options, including the Nerang River, local canal systems, Coomera River, Jacobs Well, Cabbage Tree Point, and the Logan River, where you can find Jacks and other species. Mullet, Silver Biddies, and Whiting are great live baits for these predatory fish. Look for areas with plenty of structure like rock walls, bridges, pylons, jetties, pontoons, and submerged trees to increase your chances of success.

Despite challenging weather conditions, there are still opportunities for a successful fishing trip along the Gold and Tweed Coast. Stay informed, adapt to the changing conditions, and enjoy your time on the water.

Gavin from Sea Probe Fishing Charters reports:

“After this wind settles try the 18 and 24 fathom reefs for Jewfish leading up to the full moon using live baits also some bigger Dolphin Fish have showed up 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