Friday, December 24, 2010

Merry Christmas from the FishMax Team


Everyone here at FishMax wishes all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Safe and Enjoyable New Year.

For the next week or so we're all going fishing, but we'll be back next year with more great fishing tips, reviews and features, more "Holy Sh*t or Bull Sh*t", more fishing celebrities, fishing giveaways and a whole lot more including some exciting new fishing goodies that we look foward to sharing with you all.

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Fishing Quote of the Week



"It has always been my private conviction that any man who
pits his intelligence against a fish and loses has it coming."
  John Steinbeck

                                                                                                                 


Celebrity Interview - Glenn Cooper of Cooper's Brewery

Exclusive FishMax Interview

Glenn Cooper, 5th generation brewer, and now Executive Chairman and Marketing Director is a keen fisherman. Glenn was kind enough to recently take some time out of brewing one of the writer’s favourite drops (Coopers Pale Ale) to answer a few of our questions.

It’s clear from Glenn’s answers  that, like many of us, for Glenn, the joys of fishing are inextricably entwined with the joys of spending time with family members.

Glenn recounts fishing with his then future father-in-law off Black Point in the middle of Gulf St Vincent “I was about 19 and had just started going out with Elspeth. He made me do all the work, hauling up anchors and the like!”.

Glenn still loves fishing Gulf St Vincent, going after King George whiting and great South Australian Snapper for the table. Glenn sites Crumbed King George whiting eaten with his wife’s famous home-made tartare sauce as a favourite.

Fishing's a family affair for the Cooper Clan
His favourite spot on the Gulf is a secret though - “It's known only to me and my GPS” he tells us. While he might not want to share his hot fishing spots, Glenn does enjoy sharing the fishing experience with others. “Recently I took my son and his girlfriend and some of their friends fishing in rough seas in Gulf St Vincent.

We decided to go into deeper water despite the rough seas and we got a great haul of snapper. My son’s girlfriend who had never caught a fish, landed a beautiful six pound red!.”

Glenn was also kind enough to share with us his hot fishing tip “ With King George whiting, if they are not biting, don’t think the fish are not there. Practice patience and they will come on!”.


Words: Stevo Perry Pics: Coopers Brewery and Mr Cooper’s private albums.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Sunset Beach a Trevally Fisherman's Paradise

Guest Writer Simo sings the praises of Sunset Beach, Qld.

Hiding just north of Dingo Beach, near Gloucester Island National Park is the tranquil Sunset Beach.

This Queensland Central Coast gem was the scene of a long awaited family holiday with friends and equally keen anglers. With local haunts carrying names such as “The Rock” and “Trevally Alley” we were looking forward to some fun times enjoying the local surrounds whilst catching a feed of fish.

Firstly we head out to “The Rock” where the fun started in the first 5 minutes with a nice hook up of mackerel. Before too long everyone was in the action with a large array of species and dinner was sorted for the night.

 
Simo with some of the Sunset Beach Bounty

The next day we headed off to Trevally Alley and after a half dozen drifts over structure we had as many of the target fish. Trevally are a great fish that put up a decent fight and you really can have some fun playing with the drag and lightening up your gear. The kids all enjoyed the action with some of the younger ones experiencing a big fish for the first time.

After a week of crabbing and fishing the fun was over and some interesting driving through swollen creeks continued the excitement for a little longer. The waters of the Central Coast provide some of the best fishing for such a wide range of species that can provide fun and excitement for any angler.

FishMax Tip: Fish Sunset Beach from boats but keep close to land.

Holy Sh*t or Bull Sh*t - The Truth about the Gannet Man Revealed

Last week we posted a video claiming to be of the so called "Gannett Man" , New Zealander Matt Watson from the ITM Fishing Show jumping from a helicopter and catching a marlin (see the video here) and asked "Is it Bull Sh*t or Holy Sh*t "- is the video of a Watson catching a marlin by diving from a helicoptor true or false?

Well we had a lot of comments on our blog, by email and on facebook with some saying the video showing this crazy Kiwi catching a big fish from from a helicopter was definitely true, with others saying it couldn't possibly be real.

When we approached Matt Watson's representatives for a comment, this is what they had to say:

"We keep the details behind Gannetman very secret... Just as Peter Jackson from The Lord of the Rings doesn't give up his secrets, nor do we. In saying that we don’t have the necessary budget to engage Weta Workshop and I can confirm that everything you see in the clip actually happened. "

So the truth? Can man really jump from a chopper and catch a marlin?

Well, we are certainly not going to say it's impossible, and Matt Watson's Marlin jumping antics were widely reported as real across the globe,  but it does appear to us that (unfortunately) this particular video is a bit of "movie majic".

The response of the fish, the position of the camera man and other factors have our experts certain that this wasn't a case of simply spotting a marlin in the wild and diving on  to it from a chopper.

Watson catches marlin from JetSki
Watson himself has been reported as admitting  that TV trickery was involved in taking the photo and so we have to rule this one "Bull Sh*t".

There is no doubt though that Matt Watson does some crazy stuff - See more on his website at The Ultimate Fishing Show.




Want to know if a fishing story, picture or video circulating the internet is true or false? Simply send details to holyorbull@fishmax.com.au and we'll find the answer!

Monday, December 20, 2010

Game fishing in Cairns – the Black Marlin capital of the world

Nothing beats the excitement of a fight with a powerful game fish and the thrill of bringing it in.

You’ve got a few weeks left to head north to Cairns and catch (no pun intended!) the last few weeks of the Black Marlin season. In early September every year, these highly prized queens of the marlin group flock to the waters off Cairns to breed and spawn along the 250 km stretch of the Great Barrier Reef. The stretch of the reef between Cairns and Lizard Island is the undisputed best place for anglers to catch the biggest Black Marlin in some of the best conditions in the whole world.  

The Marlin is one of the fastest species of fish. If you’ve ever attempted to reel one in, then you’ll know they’re also pretty strong. Black Marlins usually weigh in at around 750 kg, but greater weights have been recorded. If you want to try your hand at bringing in one yourself then hop on cheap flights to Cairns before the end of December, head out into the Coral Sea, and try your luck before they head back north. Or, plan your trip for next year.  But make sure you take advantage of the best big marlin fishing in the world. It’s right on our doorstep!

There are a few different options for getting out on the water and beginning your Black Marlin hunt. For serious anglers, the best way to take advantage of these superb conditions is to charter a multi-day trip and live aboard the boat (you can also sneak in some diving, snorkelling and swimming on the reef!). You’ll also be able to follow the fish as they move, and angle at various different locations on the reef.

Otherwise, many operators offer day trips from Cairns. Of course, Black Marlin are not the only fish that are going to give you a nibble. There’s plenty of Wahoo, King Mackerel, Tuna, Giant Trevally and Mahi Mahi that make perfect bait for the Marlin and a delicious dinner.

Nothing gets the adrenaline pumping like a few bites from a monster marlin, not to mention hooking one, the fight and eventually bringing it in.  If you’ve got a few days to kill this Christmas season or are itching for some angling action, get up north to Black Marlin territory. www.cheapflights.com.au can get you there quickly and cheaply.

For more info on Black Marlin fishing near Cairns, try http://www.fishingcairns.com.au/page1-5.html.

What’s the biggest Black Marlin you’ve ever caught?

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Bream - Part 3 - Catching Bream in the Surf or from Rocks and with Lures

In Part 1 of our 4 Part Series on Bream, You read about The Best Places to Find Bream in Australia. In Part 2, You  read about the Best Way to Catch Bream in Australian Estuaries, Bays and Harbours. In this Part 3, read about the Best Bait and Rig for Surf and Rock Fishing For Australian Bream and About Fishing for Bream with Soft Plastics In Australia.

Best Bait and Rig for Rock and Surf Fishing Bream in Australia

In New South Wales and southern Queensland many surf and rock fishermen target Eastern Black Bream.

Small surf gutters and holes close to the shoreline can very often produce good size Bream, (and also Whiting, Flathead and Swallowtail Trevally). Try fishing such gutters and holes with
When fishing around a rocky bottom, the favourite haunt of bream, it still pays to use the sinker right on the hook to alleviate constant snagging. However, when fishing a sandy gutter try a 40 centimetre trace below the lead weight and a No1 or 1/0 hook.

Rock and surf fisherman going after Bream will use a range of baits including yabbies, peeled prawns, marine worms, , mullet gut’ whole and cut pilchards, fish fillets, strips and cubes.

Fishing Soft Plastics Bream in Australia

In terms of soft plastics, my mate Garry says to try 2 and 3 inch shads for daylight Bream fishing. Apparently these are supposed to represent small bait fish but closely mimicking prawns in their action for daylight soft plastic Bream fishing. He also says to give the shrimp styles in 2 inch a try.

As with most bream fishing getting your soft plastic or hardbody lure close in to the structure is the key to success. Types of retrieve also effect results and stop, wait and then short lift retrieves seem to work.

We hear lots of people ask what is the best colour soft plastic lure for Bream. A lot of fishermen who use Soft Plastics to fish Bream swear by pumpkinseed or Motor oil coloured SP's. All we can recommend is that you try a few to find what work best for Bream in your favourite Bream fishing spots. Just like live baits, Bream can be fussy so be prepared to change if one style or colour is not working on a certain day.

Be aware that because soft plastics are visual and work best for Bream in daylight or bright moonlit nights, so once its dark, we recommend that you switch back to live or fresh baits.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Funny Fishing TV Bloopers

Everyone here at FishMax loves a good laugh, and when one of our readers sent us this great video showing a series of Fishing TV Show bloopers, we had to share it.








We hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Fishing Quote of the Week



"If people concentrated on the really important things in life,
there'd be a shortage of fishing poles"
                                         Doug Larson                                           


Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Holy Sh*t or Bull Sh*t?

All fishermen love great fishing stories, but some of the fishing photos and fishing videos  that circulate the 'net are really hard to believe. Some of these are true and some of them frankly are Bull Sh*t.

Here at FishMax.com.au we'll be digging deep behind the hype to find out the truth - big fish photos, crazy fishing videos, tall fishing stories - send 'em all in and our intrepid reporters will investigate and tell you whether they are truely "Holy Sh*t" or just plain "Bull Sh*t".

Our first is this great video which claims to show Gannett Man - New Zealander Matt Watson from the ITM Fishing Show jumping from a helicopter and catching a marlin! Here's the clip:



So, did Matt Watson really dive from a chopper and catch a marlin in the wild just like a Gannett catches a fish? What do you think? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below and visit next week, when we reveal the truth behind this extreme fishing video!

If you have a hard to believe fishing photo or video, send it in to holyorbull@fishmax.com.au and our journos will track down the true story!

Friday, December 3, 2010

What to get the kids for Chrissie?


If you're like the blokes here at FishMax, you probably think that one of the best parts of Christmas is shopping for the kids - or at least, until they are about 12 or 13, after that, "it's a difficult age" and best left to the missus!

In this, the third of our Christmas gift specials, we have included some great gift ideas for kids, so check our our kids Christmas gift guide.

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Matt Hayden’s Udon Prawn Salad

(reproduced with the kind permission of Matthew Hayden)

His favourite, seafood recipe, Matt says “This is such a simple and refreshingly “zingy” salad to have on a hot summer day”.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon sesame oil
½ cub coriander leaves, roughly chopped
1 small red onion, finely sliced
2 spring onions, finely sliced
500g cooked prawns, peeled
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 red bird’s-eye chillies, seeded and finely chopped
lime wedges to serve
500g fresh udon noodles

Method

Prepare the noodles as directed on the packet. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry frying pan over medium heat for about 2 minutes, until golden brown. Transfer to plate to cool.

Drain the noodles and place into a large bowl. Add the olive oil and sesame oil and toss to couat. Add the remaining ingredients and toss to combine. Serve with the lime quarters.

Serves 2-3

Note: You can buy udon noodles from the supermarket, either in the fridge section, or on the shelf with other Asian ingredients, vacuum packed. Preparation instructions vary, but  as they are pre-cooked they usually only need to be rinsed under hot water to separate the strands.

For more of Matthew Hayden’s great recipes, grab a copy of “The Complete Matthew Hadyen Cookbook", available at all good book shops.

To read more from our exclusive interview with  Matt Hayden, click here.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

What do women really want (for Christmas)?

Don't make a wrong call!
Ok, it's that time of the year again, when you are going to have to get out there and get your wife/girlfriend something good to leave under the tree. And it better be good or you won't be doing much fishing in January!

Well your mates at FishMax, with a little help from the girls in the office, have put together some ideas that will help get you out of trouble. Take a look at at our Christmas Gift Guide for Chicks Part 1 & Part 2.

Good luck, and remember - your summer fishing might depend on it!

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Win A Video Dive Mask Valued at $199


Thanks to Liquid Image, whether you love to snorkel, scuba dive, swim, or even go spear fishing, you can now record all the action with these awesome video camera goggles.

You can then edit or post the footage to show the world the amazing sea life you get to experience!  Let your friends and family know what it feels like to get up close and personal with a stingray or school of reef fish.

To operate the Liquid Image goggles simply turn on the camera, choose the mode then press the shutter button.  LED lights inside the googgle indicate the mode to the user.  Record your antics then upload to your computer using the USB cable provided.  It’s too much fun!

There are three types of goggles in the Underwater Range.  The Explorer Series 302 is great for snorkeling, swimming and playing in the pool.  It can go to a depth of 5 metres and shoots video at 20 frames per second at VGA quality.  It can shoot stills up to 5 megapixels and comes in a bright yellow colour making you visible in the water.

The next level underwater mask is the VideoMask 310.  This little beauty shoots DVD quality footage at 30 frames per second. It can be used at a depth of 20 metres and also records sound.  It’s great for snorkeling, and shallow and recreational dives.  It looks very sleek in black and red.

For serious scuba diving, spear fishing, and deep diving, the Scuba Series HD320 is the go!  It shoots HD quality at 30 frames per second up to 40 metres.  This mask also records sound and has a ‘straight to TV’ playback option.  This is the blue mask in the range.

Both the VideoMask 310 and the Scuba Serise HD 320 have attachments for optional lights and all three masks can record onto a Micro SD card. These underwater goggles run on AAA batteries and can record over two hours of video before the batteries will need to be changed. 

To find out where you can get your hands on these amazing underwater goggle masks go to http://www.activeoutthere.com.au/ for stockists details.  The Explorer Series sell for $199, the VideoMask 310 costs $299 and the Scuba Series HD will set you back $399.

FishMax has a pair of the fantastic Liquid Image Explorer Series 302 Video Dive Mask to give away, valued at $199! For your chance to win this great pair of video goggles, click here!

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

An Interview with Matt Hayden

Exclusive FishMax Interview

He might have caught an Order of Australia earlier this year, but Matthew Hayden still comes across as the down to earth Brisbane boy he really is and although he has officially retired from representative cricket, he is still very active in the game, playing again this year for the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL and working with Cricket Australia in raising the profile of indigenous cricket. Earlier this year he captained the Indigenous All-stars XI against the ACA Masters XI as part of the Imparja Cup held in Alice Springs, Northern Territory.

Recently, this powerful and aggressive left-hander, described by Ricky Ponting and others as the greatest ever opener for Australia, took time out of his busy schedule to answer a few of our questions.

Matthew told us that his earliest fishing memories are going after Whiting with his dad when he was a very young boy, and ever since, he has really enjoyed fishing for a good feed. Of course, he’s accutely senstive about the sestainability of our natural resources, and like all good amatuer fishermen, never takes home more than he needs.

Matthew of course is famous for his cooking, having released 2 cookbooks and even reportedly taking time out on international tours to cook up a meal for his team mates.

“My Prawn Salad recipe is definitely one of my seafood favourites” Matthew told us. “I hope your readers like it too”. (Next week on Fishmax: Matt's Udon Prawn Salad Recipe).

And while Matt’s happy to talk about things like his favourite fishing spot on NZ’s Tongariro River upper region (chasing Wild Rainbow Trout)  one of the things he is little more reticent about is his much publicized at the time, brush with the might of the ocean off North Stradebroke Island. In 2000, the boat Matt was skippering flipped and sank trying to cross the North Stradie Bar. Matt, Fellow cricketer Andrew Simmons and another friend, took an hour to swim to shore, battling currents, crashing waves. “Needless to say, we lived to tell the story” says Matt. He learned his lesson though, and is now a staunch advocate of PFDs, encouraging the skipper to put one on and lead by example.

Matt is definitely one to stand by  his mates. He was more than happy to give his good friends Dan Trotter and Dan Burgess a plug - when asked how often he gets out fishing, he responded “ Not often enough,  so I follow my favourite fishing mates  ‘The 2 Dans’ for the scoop on what’s happening where – and just dream a little.”

And finally, Matthew’s response to your question about the most memorable fish he’s ever caught, really says a lot about the nature man and what’s important to him. “I’ve caught many over the years but none more memorable than the one that ‘hooked’ my son Thomas for life after catching our first fish together off the rocks on Stradbroke Is. Bream... God love em!”

Words: Stevo Perry Pics: Matthew Hayden’s Personal Albums

Next week on FishMax: Matt's Udon Prawn Salad Recipe.

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Fishing Quote of the Week



"Somebody just back of you while you are fishing is
as bad as someone looking over your shoulder
while you write a letter to your girl."
                                          Ernest Hemingway                                                     


Saturday, November 20, 2010

Rough weather boating

We’ve probably all at one time or another been caught out boating in conditions that we rather not be in. I remember one old cruising buddy of mine said to me once, “Snap, when the weather’s great, there is no other place on earth where I rather be, but when the weather turns crap, I can think of at least a thousand”.


Well spare a thought for these guys from Safehaven Marine based in Cork, on the south-east coast of Ireland. Manufacturers of pilot and other work boats they wait until they get a nice force 10 or 11 storm to head out to sea trial their new boats. The great thing for us is that they film it, so we can experience it also, without the need for the brown undies.


These machines are awesome and a credit to the men and women of Safehaven Marine. I know if I’m ever caught out in waters like these, I’d feel a lot better in a Safehaven Interceptor. Check out their website and more great videos at http://www.safehavenmarine.com/.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Bream - Part 2 Best Way to Catch Bream

In Part 1 of our 4 Part Series on Bream, you read about The Best Places to Find Bream in Australia. In This Part 2, you'll read about the best way to catch Bream in Australian estuaries, bays and harbours.

Bait Fishing for Bream in Estuaries, Bays and Harbours

Bream are predatory and in their usual habitate they will eat small crabs, prawns and other crustaceans, assorted bait fish and shellfish such as oysters. Bream will however also scavenger and will rarely pass up an easy feed.

 If you’re looking to take Bream in Australian estuaries, bays and harbours, many Aussie fishers recommend using a light, sensitive tackle. The best bait  by far for Bream is live or fresh baits.

I find the best bait for Bream is yabbies and peeled prawns, but you can also successfully catch Bream with marine worms, fish flesh, mullet gut and pilchard.. Have a range of baits to try as Bream can be fussy. If one type of bait is not working for you, don’t hesitate to try something else.

Burley trails regularly attract good sized Bream.  Try fish flesh, bread and chicken pellets for a good Bream burley but don't over burley. Your aim is to excite the Bream enough to come looking and strike, not to feed them.

Best Rigs for Catching Bream in Estuaries, Bays and Harbours

To catch Bream, bait movement is important, so use round running sinkers - I prefer No.0 ball to No.3 ball. The best rig for Bream in my view is one with  the sinker directly above the hook, with a small No.10 free turning swivel about 1 metre above the sinker.

Having the sinker on hook gives you direct contact with your ball whether fishing into or against the tide. Its also easier to remove if your hook becomes snagged.


Don't be afraid to cast close in to tackle eating snags if you are in search of really big bream, snags are where they live.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Christmas Gift Guide - What Do Blokes Really Want?

Righto, we all know that every Australian bloke is going to get at least 1 shirt this Christmas and we also know that pretty soon the missus is going to take you aside and say one or more of the following:

§                “What do you want the kids/my parents/me to get you for Christmas this year?”
§                 “Have you got something for your dad/brother/ mate Davo yet?” and
§                 “What on earth can I get my dad/sister’s husband/work colleague?”

Grady White Express 360 - The perfect Chrissie gift!
Now we all know that what you really want Santa to bring this year is a new Grady-White Express 360 fully fueled up, with the bait tank and the beer fridge stocked and the outfit crewed by a couple of bonzer sheilas who know how to fillet a flathead, have an instinctive sense of where to hook up the big sportsfish and also look great in a bikini, but in real life, if  you want something other than shirts, socks and jocks under the Christmas tree this year, you better start thinking.

Of course, like all good mates, FishMax is hear to help! This year we’ve put together a handy list of Christmas gift suggestions either for yourself or the other blokes you have responsibilities to.  So if you're looking to spend $50 or less on a christmas gift for a guy, here are some great gift ideas for men under $50. If you want to spend a bit more (or want someone to spend a bit more on you), take a look at these suggestions for mens gifts from $50 and up.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Jimmy Barnes on the Best Fishing Spots in the World!

Exclusive FishMax Interview.
  
The one and only Mr Jimmy Barnes recently took time out from his always  busy schedule (he is currently travelling Australia on his “Rage and Ruin” Tour and Cold Chisel performed at Shellharbour Workers Club in September and Delliquin Ute Muster in October) to answer some questions exclusively for FishMax. It's clear that, like us,  the working class man himself loves  that great pursuit that makes all men equal - fishing!

He might have been born in Scotland with the name James Dixon Swan but we know him as Barnsey and he is definitely one of Australia’s favourite sons (for those of you who care about these sorts of things, Barnes took his step dad’s name after his mother remarried) and it is clear that Australia is where his heart lies.

When asked about his earliest fishing memory, Jimmy reminisces  “When I was about 9 or ten years-old I used to catch a train from Elizabeth in Adelaide to Semaphore Beach by myself and spend the day fishing off the jetty . I didn't catch a lot but I loved the whole idea of it.  Spending time alone - me against the world .”

Despite travelling the world, Jimmy’s favourite fishing spot is still in the country he loves. “My favourite fishing spot would have to be Weipa, up north.” Jimmy says. “So much variety and so many fish , it is just amazing. There is an element of danger involved too, with all the crocs and sharks.” But he’s also willing to give due credit to other countries’ great fishing. “I love fishing in Thailand,” he tells us. “You can catch a fish and while you go for the next one the Thai boatmen clean and cook them on the spot . Doesn't get any fresher than that.”

“So which is the best?” I want to know. Jimmy’s answer is clear “I have been fishing in Thailand , The Maldives , Scotland but I think the most exiting and exotic is right here in Australia . God's country . We really don't have to go anywhere else, do we ?”

He's not afraid of looking to other parts of the world when it comes to how to eat his catch. “I'm a pretty good Thai cook” he says, “ so I’m very fond of just frying the fish in very hot oil and eating it with Nam Pla (fish sauce) and hot chilli and rice . His other choice is “baking [the fish] in foil with soy sauce, ginger and shallots”. Jimmy tells us that “Nothing tastes better than a fish you've just caught."

And the final word from the man who has belted out the songs that many (myself included) consider define a generation? “I don't get to go fishing enough , does anybody get to go fishing enough ?". If that was a song, I'd download it from iTunes!

As for Cold Chisel, If you missed them at Shellharbour or the Deniliquin Ute Muster earlier this year, Jimmy has confirmed that the band is working on new material for the first time since the late ‘90s and are looking at a tour in 2011.

In the mean time, you can catch Jimmy Barnes live in various places in Australia as he takes his  Rage and Ruin” tour on the road. For more information, visit www.jimmybarnes.com

Words: Stevo Perry Pics: ColdChisel.com, Wikipedia

Next Week: Matt Hayden talks fishing

Friday, November 12, 2010

World Class Sea Fishing Locations

If you’re looking for inspiration for your next fishing trip - have a read through what we think are some of the top sea fishing destinations in the world.
Caribbean Sea Fishing
If you’re looking for an excuse to head to the beautiful Caribbean islands, then this could be it. The Caribbean is home to some of the best sea fishing the world can offer.
The warm, clear waters of the Caribbean ocean attract hundreds of species of game fish and is the ideal sea fishing destination for all members of the family – regardless of age or skill.
Expect to catch fish such as albacore, marlin, barracuda, sailfish and mackerel.
Look for cheap holiday packages to the Caribbean that include charter fishing trips. Some of the cheapest holiday packages depart from Puerto Rico and Aruba, however Antigua is generally regarded as the best island for sea fishing.
Spain Sea Fishing
Spain is a fisherman’s paradise with over 2,000km of coastline to explore. The best places to head are the Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines.
Fishing is a popular recreational activity in Spain and there are endless ports and marinas to set off from across the country. Sea fishing charters depart regularly and can be found at very affordable prices.
Spain is a good sea fishing destination all year round, but between July and September you can experience swordfish fishing at its best.
You can find cheap flights to Spain from most major cities around the world.
Mauritius Sea Fishing
If you’re after marlin, then Mauritius is your best bet. Situated off the eastern coast of Africa, the year-round warm climate makes it the ideal breeding ground for marlin and many other sought-after species such as tuna, blue marlin and bonito. The best time for sea fishing in Mauritius is between October and April.
Sea fishing charters departing from Mauritius are very affordable and generally much cheaper than in other destinations. Some of the best departure destinations in Mauritius are Le Morne, Trou Aux Biches and Trou d’Eau Douce.
Panama Sea Fishing
One country that generally doesn’t pop into people’s heads when they think of sea fishing destinations is Panama. This hidden gem is one of the world’s best kept fishing secrets and many of the world’s largest catches have been made from the waters around Panama.
Expect to catch billfish, black marlin, sailfish, yellow fin tuna, red snapper and more during your fishing trip.
The best months to visit Panama are between July and September – however fishing is generally good
ll year round.
Alaska
If you want to experience the best sea fishing in the world – Alaska without a doubt takes the title. Not only does Alaska offer some of the most spectacular scenery for your fishing trip, but you will find some of the largest and freshest fish in the world.
Best known for its scale-breaking King salmon and halibut, Alaskan waters also regularly produce species such as black cod, trout, bass and pike.
You should head to Alaska during the warmer months as much of the waters surrounding the state are frozen during the winter.
Flights can be expensive so look out for cheap holiday packages to Alaska.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

What's the Best Moon Phase to go fishing?

A lot of people know that moon phases effect fishing, but do you know which moon phase is the best for catching fish?

In fact, why do moon phases effect fishing? There are lots of theories, and perhaps no one knows for sure, but most believe it has to do with the fact that fish seem to be more active feeders on the bigger tides, which of course, are effected by the moon.

We have caught good and bad bags on all different phases of the moon however experience seems to show that the best fishing is on the new and the  full moon. Obviously we all want to improve our fishing experience so using the moon phases is one way to increase your chances of hooking up more and bigger fish. Investing about 6 bucks dollars in an Anglers Almanac will help you track the moon phases - Stevo has been using one for years and swears that it will increase your chances of catching fish.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Gillies Pro Fish Grip

If you're serious about catch and release for big fish, a pair of fish grips are a must. JM Gillies claims that the unique design of the Gillies Pro Fish Grip allows ease of use and the safe handling and quick release of fish so we took the opportunity to take a look at this product.

The first feature you notice in the Gillies Pro Fish Grip is the inbuilt stainless steel spring balance scale. This makes it easy to weigh your catch and you can also use it to set drag tension on your fishing reel, which can be important in game and sport fishing. Fine tuning the scale to zero is very easy with the adjustable screw cap.

The Pro Fish Grip also features an offset handle with a soft EVA grip for better handling capabilities.

The lip grip is easily operated by pulling and releasing the trigger. The movable jaw contains a one way cam and when engaged will not let the fish slip.

The Gillies Pro Fish Grip is lightweight and manufactured from saltwater grade materials and is available in five different colours. Retailing at about $139 this is by no means the cheapest set of fish grippers on the market, but we'd certainly be happy to find one under our tree this Christmas. If you're buying it for yourself and have the cash, you might want to  also consider spending a little more and take a look at the Shimano Fish Grips retailing at about $169 or the Boga Fish Grips which retail for almost $200 and are regarded by many as best of breed.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Fishing Quote of the Week



"All the romance of trout fishing exists in the mind
of the angler and is in no way shared by the fish."
                                          Harold F Blaisdell                                           


Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Top 5 Fishing Destinations in Western Australia


Western Australia is renowned for its world-class fishing destinations, but where are the best fishing hotspots across the state? It’s hard to pick just a few, but we’ve listed our top five below.

Where: Rottnest Island
Catch:
Jewfish, King George whiting, snapper, squid
Best time to visit: All year
Rottnest Island is just a 30 minute ferry ride from Fremantle (or short flight), and it has some of the best fishing that WA has to offer.
With over 360 different species of fish in the waters surrounding the island you’ll be spoilt for choice! You can fish off of any of the jetties or charter fishing trips run regularly throughout the year.
Although you can take rods on the ferry over to Rotto, you can pick up any extra fishing supplies from Malibu Dive or the Geordie General Store once you get to the island.

Where: Kalbarri
Catch: Tailor, mulloway, silver bream, mackerel
Best time to visit:
March - September
Kalbarri is a popular coastal town approximately 592km north of Perth and offers fantastic land and offshore fishing opportunities in the river mouth, reefs, offshore or at the beach.
Some of the best fishing spots in and around Kalbarri include: Wittecarra Creek, Blue Holes, Red Bluff Beach and Chinaman’s Rock.
Kalbarri is approximately a six hour drive from Perth or you can find cheap flights into Kalbarri airport. 

Where: Shark Bay
Catch:  Pink snapper, Spanish mackerel, tuna, coral trout
Best time to visit:
March - September
Shark Bay is one of Australia’s most beautiful World Heritage Sites as well as being a premier WA fishing destination.
Almost all fish species you can find in various destinations across WA can be found in areas surrounding Shark Bay. Steep Point, False Entrance and South Passage are famous for their cliff fishing – however you need to be prepared with specialist equipment to be able to fish off the steep cliffs.
For less demanding fishing head to Francois Peron National Park – shore based fishing is very popular here.
Shark Bay Airport has regular flights to and from Perth.

Where: Perth
Catch:  Bream, cobbler, flounder, herring, pink snapper
Best time to visit: All year
You’ll be amazed at what you can catch in and around the city itself. Particularly during the warmer months many fish species head into the Swan River and you can fish either from a boat or on shore. The best areas for river fishing in Perth are between the river mouth at Fremantle up to Mosman Bay.
Land-based ocean fishing is also popular. Try heading to North Mole, South Mole, Cockburn Sounds and the harbours around Fremantle for the most variety.
Regular fishing charters depart from both Fremantle and Perth and start from as little as $75.
There are regular cheap flights into Perth airport from all major cities in Australia.

Where: Exmouth
Catch: Coral trout, squid, blue marlin, red emperor
Best time to visit:
April - August
Just off the coast of Exmouth is the world-renowned Ningaloo Reef. Some of the world’s most sought after fish species are regularly reeled in around the reef, including Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Spanish Mackerel and Mahi Mahi.
While beach fishing is popular in Exmouth, fishing charters are the best way to ensure a good catch. Both half and full day fishing charters regular depart from Exmouth.
The closest airport is Learmonth and you can often find cheap flights if you book in advance.
 Don't Agree with our choices? Well why not post a comment with your favourite WA spots?

Pics: Courtesy of Tourism Western Australia

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

New Rapala Jigging Rap Now Available

We've just got our hands on one of the new Rapala Jigging Raps and it's looking good.

Designed by Pro Fishermen in Japan to increase captures throughout winter, the Rapala Jigging Rap is now available in Australia and is ideal for jigging deep or suspended fish.

The Jigging Rap, moves in a figure eight pattern, and placing it  right in the middle of deep game fish encourages an aggravated bite.

The difference with this lure is the  unique hook setting, which is said to ensure that no matter the angle of the strike, you will hook up.

The Rapala Jigging Rap comes in 3cm, 5cm and 7cm in length; and in ten colours found only in Japan and Australia.

Features:
  • Minnow Profile
  • Balanced Design
  • Zinc Weighted
  • Glow Colors
  • Single Reversed Hooks
  • Center Treble & Eyelet
Species:
Bass, Perch, Cod, Trout, Flathead, Bream, Tailor, Salmon, Mulloway
Technique:
Jigging
Running Depth:
Variable
Environment:
Freshwater & Estuary

Visit www. rapala.com.au for stockists.

Monday, November 1, 2010

Photo Caption Contest Winner

Wow, the reply to our photo caption contest sure generated some fantastic responses. It was hard to choose the winner, but in the end we felt this one stood out:



Congratulations to Mr Ian T. of Richlands who won the great Sunsafe Prize Pack. To read the other great suggestions (some of them are hilarious), click here.

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Bream - Part 1 Best Places to Find Bream in Australia

In this Part 1 of our 4 Part Series on Bream, you’ll learn the best places to find Bream in Australia. In the coming parts, you’ll find out the best way to catch them and cook them.

Lots of Aussie fishermen can attest to the fun and satisfaction of Bream fishing. Whether it's in estuaries or on the beach, with fly, lure or live bait, Bream fishing can be very enjoyable, they put up a great fight  and of course, they can taste great. Bream from lower estuaries, harbours and the open ocean have moist, white flesh with a clean, sweet flavour while upper estuary or freshwater dwelling fish often exhibit slightly softer flesh, and can have a slightly weedy or muddy taint at times.

Australian Bream Fishing

While most fishermen simply call them "Bream" (pronounced “Brim”), in Australia this term encompasses the fish variously known as Eastern Black Bream, Black Bream, Southern Bream, Pikey Bream  and Silver Bream. To make things more confusing, sometimes the Eastern Black Bream is mistakenly called the Yellowfin Bream. Properly speaking, the term Yellowfin Bream in Australia more correctly belongs to a closely related, but less common fish which lives in Western Australian waters. 

In Australia, very large bream of all species often have a bluish tinge around the nose and upper jaw area, which earns them the nickname of "blue-nose bream". 

Where to Find Bream in Australia

You’ll find the Eastern Black Bream from about Cairns, all the way down the New South Wales coast to about Lakes Entrance in Victoria, Southern Bream are primarily an estuary, lake and river dwelling fish, stretching from the far south coast of New South Wales to about Geraldton in Western Australia.

Southern Bream are also to be found the tidal rivers of Tasmania, the Bass Strait islands and on Kangaroo Island.

Pikey Bream range from central northern Queensland, across the Northern Territory to about Exmouth, in Western Australia.

Bream can be found from the freshwater reaches of rivers well above the upper tidal limits, down through the estuaries and into harbours, inlets, bays and tidal lakes.

Eastern Black Bream also range extensively along ocean surf beaches, rocky shorelines and into offshore waters. 

Bream do not like clear water,. When a sea breeze brings turbulence and cloudy water this can be the best time for fishing Bream. When fishing piers or jetties, do not neglect to cast under the structure  as Bream feed and shelter around the piles, often right under where you are standing.

In estuaries, harbours and tidal lakes, Bream usually inhabit rough, snaggy areas, 2 metres to 6 metres in depth. They feed together in schools, usually around areas which give them some protection, such as sunken logs, oyster bases, eroded banks or the base of rock walls.


During the winter months they congregate in the deep fast running waters, somewhere near surf bars where rivers and estuaries empty into the open sea, and bite best during the night and at dawn.
When fishing bream, you can expect to land fishing weighing anywhere between 200grams and 1.2 kg, and a Bream over 1.2kg is something to be proud of. There are reports of Bream over 4kg being caught.

Friday, October 29, 2010

Troy Cassar-Daley: Fishing, Family and His New Live DVD.



 Exclusive FishMax Interview with Troy Cassar-Daley.

Welcome to the first in our series of Australian celebrity fishermen (and women) interviews and everyone here at FishMax is delighted our first interview is with Country Music Legend, Queenslander, Avid Fisherman and all round good guy, Troy Cassar-Daley.

Troy has been steadily building fans of his music since he first released “Dream Out Loud” in 1994.  Since then he has gone from strength to strength winning a bag of awards any fishing musician (or musician fisherman) would boast of, including most recently, Best Country Album in 2009 for his album “I Love This Place”.

Along with County music and his family (Troy is married to country singer and radio & TV personality Laurel Edwards and they have two children, Clay and Gem) Troy loves nothing more than a spot of fishing, and he tries to get a line out at least once a fortnight.

If he can combine two of his great loves, family and fishing, he couldn’t be happier. “ My boy Clay caught his first Barra last year in the Territory”, Troy told us. “It was amazing to see his smile. I will never forget that day”.

Troy himself has been fishing and performing since he was a kid. He first went to  Tamworth when he was 11 and his first fishing memories are even earlier. “I remember catching catfish at a place called Cangai outside of Grafton where I am from” Troy said.

Troy told us that he especially enjoys going after Bass (on his farm an hour out of Brisbane) and Barramundi with lures, and he is definitely a catch and release kind of guy – the biggest fish he’s ever caught? “A Spanish Mackerel over a metre in Weipa North QLD”.

And Troy Casser-Daley’s favourite fishing spot? “Definitely the Red Lily Lagoon at Gunbalanya in the Northern Territory”.

Troy also tells us about his latest release, a live DVD and 2 CD set, his first “live” recording. Its of his special one off concert held at The York Theatre, Sydney in June of this year. The concert itself features ‘Born To Survive’, Big Big Love’, ‘Everything’s Going To Be Alright’, ‘Sing About This Country’, ‘River Boy’, ‘Trains’ plus two brand new tracks, ‘Yesterday’s Bed’ and ‘Brighter Day’ and a sensational cover of the Curtis Mayfield classic ‘People Get Ready’. Troy’s live CD & DVD set is in stores now.


For a sneak look at just how good Troy Cassar-Daley is performing live, take a look at this clip of “People Get Ready” live in Connecticut introduced by Troy's good friend, Kieth Urban:




Next week: Jimmy Barnes shares his fishing secrets.

Words: Stevo Perry Pics: Troy Casser-Daley’s personal albums & Mushroom Records.