Articles

Coastal Catches 21/06/2012

I read an interesting article written by Greg French in the current issue of Freshwater Fishing concerning Trout growth and fisheries management. The article points out where there is ample or an abundance of food trout will do well and where food is scarce they will struggle. Fisheries management, (Water level and water quality) has a big influence on the ecology of lakes and in turn how much food is available.  It is a well written story and well worth a read.

There is a point that Greg raises that need support. Arthurs lake is our most popular fishery and one of the most productive. Through the drought years the lake was drawn down well below the agreed minimum level of minus 4 metres to minus 5.5 metres. This caused productive bays like the Cowpaddock to dry up and had huge impacts on the ecology of the lake. A new memorandum of understanding was drawn up in 2009 to again promise that the lake would not be drawn down below minus 4 metres. We all know that there is big investment being made for irrigation schemes using Arthurs Lake water. During drought periods there will be pressure to draw water down below the agreed minus 4 metre level and this would have further disastrous effects on our premier fishery. We need to insist that the water level is not drawn down below the agreed level.
Australian Salmon are being caught at the mouth of the Forth River but I would suggest that warm clothing is a mandatory requirement. There are still a few Salmon around in the Sulphur Creek area and off the Emu River mouth at Burnie.
The Boat Ramp jetty at Burnie is a popular place for anglers and is well worth a look. One local lad caught an Elephant Shark off there on Tuesday night. A good mix of burley is helpful to bring the fish around.
Stripy Trumpeter are still being caught off the West Coast however you should only attempt this when the weather is conducive to safe fishing.
Tight lines till next week.

Gadget of the week:

 

 

 

 Merrell Chameleon Wrap Slam Trail Shoe.
Ideal mix of comfort and support for Trail walking or just a super comfy everyday shoe.  Normally priced at $219 on special $149 at Tassie Tackle and Outdoor

 

Winner Photo Competition for May :

 

Zalee Fraser with a 16lb Atlantic Salmon from Strahan. Call into Tassie Tackle and outdoor to collect your $50 Voucher.

Photos:

Reid Wiseman with a nice Stripy Trumpeter from the West Coast

 

Sarah Mundy with a nice Bluefin Tuna from Eaglehawk neck.