Friday, April 29, 2011

Holy SH*t or Bull Sh*t- Time to buy a bigger boat?

I Think We're Gonna Need a Bigger Boat!
Last week we published this photo sent in by reader Mad Max, who asked us whether it was true or false?

The photo sent in has been circulating the internet for some time, often with the caption "Time to buy a bigger boat!",  "I think you're going to need a bigger boat!" (which by the way is a classic line from the 1975  smash hit JAWS!) or "I think we're gonna need a bigger boat!" (which a little oddly is also the title of an album by Fat Boy Slim under the unusual colabrative name "Brighton Port Authority")

In these days of digitally manipulated fishing photos, it's true you just can't trust every photo that lands in your inbox or apepars on your favourite website, but according to our experts, this photo of a very very big fish actually is a real photo!

Snorkling with a Whale Shark
The  fish in the photo is a Whale Shark, which really are huge! The largest recorded specimen was 12.65 metres (41.50 ft) and so easily dwarf many recreational fishing boats. The Whale Shark, Rhincodon typus, is a  slow moving filter feeding shark that is well known for its willingness to let boats and even swimmers come close and sometimes even touch it.  Found in tropical and warm oceans, if you want to see a Whale Shark,  they migrate every spring to the continental shelf of the central west coast of Australia coming in to feed off the coral spawning of the  Ningaloo Reef.

If you've seen a big fish photo, crazy fishing video or tall fishing story that sounds too good to be true send 'em all in to holy@fishmax.com.au and our team of reporters and experts will investigate and tell you whether they are truely "Holy Sh*t" or "Bull Sh*t"!

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Celebrity Interview - Max Burslem - One eye on the weather

Exclusive FishMax Interview

Beer and fishing - were two things ever made to go together more? One man who knows this as well as anyone is Australian brewing legend Max Burslem of Cascade Brewing Company.

After more than 40 years as Head Brewer at Australia's oldest brewery, Cascade Brewery in Tasmania, Max Burslem is "transitioning" in to his new role as "Transformation Manager" but one thing that won't be changing is Max's love of fishing.   Max takes a few minutes to share his views on fishing.

FM: What’s your earliest fishing memory
Fishing for Eels in Browns River at Kingston

FM: Where is your favourite fishing spot?
Adventure Bay Bruny Island

FM: Your best fishing story?
My wife falling out of the boat as we were about to put it back on the trailer

FM: Favourite fish recipe ?
Crayfish cooked straight from the cray pot on a wood fired barbeque outdoors

FM: What’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?
As long as they are size it does not matter how big they are. Size does not matter it’s the taste

FM: How often do you go fishing?
Average once a fortnight

FM: Where is the most exotic place you’ve been fishing?
Deep sea fishing off the Gold Coast

FM: Do you have a fishing tip you’re willing to share?
Check the weather forecast

Words: Stevo Perry Pics: Cascade Brewery

Monday, April 25, 2011

Fishing Quote of the Week



"Good things come to those who bait."
                                         Author Unknown                                           


Friday, April 22, 2011

Holy Sh*t or Bull Sh*t - Fish Bigger than Boat

 This week in "Holy Sh*t or Bull Sh*t"? we take a look at a great fishing  photo sent in to us by a reader using the name "Mad Max". Max received this photo of a small boat and a big fish and thinks it's great - but asks, is it real or fake?!


Well Max, we've certainly heard plenty of tales of fish too big to take on to the boat, and they say the camera never lies, but in these days of photoshop, you just can't believe everything you see on the internet. We'll set one of our reports on to investigating this, and next week, we'll answer the question - is this big fish photo Holy Sh*t or Bull Sh*t?

If you've seen a big fish photo, crazy fishing video or tall fishing story that sounds too good to be true send 'em all in to holy@fishmax.com.au and our team of reporters and experts will investigate and tell you whether they are truely "Holy Sh*t" or "Bull Sh*t"!

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Only In America - Fishing Fanatics in the USA


Can this man fish every day for a year?

We often look over to our fishing brothers (and sisters) on the other side of the Pacific and shake our heads. Americans sure love to fish-  catfish in the South, ice fishing in the North, game fish on both coasts, those guys are sure spoiled for fishing choices and there is no doubt that they have some absolute fishing fanatics, and we mean FANATICS!

Take Keith Miller for example. A lawyer from Texas, Kieth vowed in 2009 to catch one fish every day for 365 days! And he came so close! Up until December, he was right on target, but tragedy stuck, and he developed a hernia in the last month. His doctors advised him to have surgery, and  to Miller's dismay, the op was booked in for Dec 29. "I went fishing that morning. And I thought I'd be right back out there without any trouble the next day." said Miller. Unfortunately that wasn't the case, and Miller missed his target by just 2 days.

Miller is not beaten easily though, and on 1 April this year he set out again in a quest to achieve what many of us dream of - fishing every day of the year!


Is this the world's greatest fisherman?
 If you think that's fanatical, what about Minnesota native, Jeff “Kolo” Kolodzinski , who fished 24 hours straight in 2010  to land a record 2,160 fish?!

The catch was a hurculean effort, but in fact it wasn't the first time for Kolo, who had landed 1,628 fish in a previous recordbreaking attempt in 2008.

Kolodzinski set his record at Maynard's Dock at Excelsior Bay on Minnesota's Lake Minnetonka.

The purpose of the event isn’t fame or fortune- Kolodzinski is a big supporter of the Fishing For Life organisation, which works to recruit young anglers and sharing the love of the sport. Fishing for Life’s mission is to serve youth, family and community through fishing and outdoor programs.

 Kolo, a Marketing Executive had the good fortune to have  strong support from his employer, but of course he would, he works for Frabill, a fishing gear manufacturer.

And, before any one asks - catch and release, of course! 

Californian Man Catches 1000 Species
But wait, there's more.  Californian Steve Wozniak (not the guy from Apple Computers),  spent 10 years and visited 63 countries so that he could reah his goal of becoming the first person in the world to catch 1,000 different species of fish.

Its estimated that Wozniak spent more than $100,000 and 20,000 hours standing on riverbanks, piers, beaches and boats trying to catch species ranging  a tiny minnow to a 900lb shark. He has fished dozens of countries (he caughty virtually every freshwater fish native to Britain) and broke 12 International Game Fishing Association records along the way.  His fishing trek included Australia, where he landed a number of species including the pictured, Grouper of Western Australia. Wozniak hit the 1000 species mark when he landed a 2lb coalfish in Norway.

Know of any home grown fishing fanatics? We'd love to hear their stories.

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

burley Up for the Big Carp

Ok, actually this isn't really a fishing video at all, but it just cracked us up. Take a look at this baby duckling in Japan throwing food out to the Coi (Carp). Could it be that he is just burleying up?





Monday, April 18, 2011

Fishing Quote of the Week



"The charm of fishing is that it is the pursuit
of what is elusive but attainable, a perpetual series
of occasions for hope. "
                                         John Buchan                                           


Friday, April 15, 2011

Brisbane Tinnie & Tackle Show 2011

FishMax recently attended the 2011 Brisbane Tinnie and Tackle Show and we weren't alone. Organisers, Marine Queensland, reported that over 34,600 visitors attended.

It was great to talk to many attendees and exhibitors, although many visitors did mention that many of the "exclusive" show discounts and specials didn't appear much better than retailers regular specials, particularly at the lower end rods and tackle.

Almost all attendees we interviewed did agree that its a great opportunity to see a large amount of boats and gear in a small amount of time, and most mentioned the fact that the show was combined with the national 4 x 4 Show was a plus. All agreed the admission fee is about right ($12 adults, $10 concession, kids under $15 free).

Many of the visitors we spoke to also commented that they particularly liked seeing the new gear and smaller exhibitors, showing new products that they don't necessarily see in the big tackle stores.

Certainly, the wet weather  and parking diffficulties didn't seem to keep people away, with Tinnie & Tackle Show Event Manager Jason Plant declaring the event a success. "Queenslanders love getting outdoors and enjoying the boating lifestyle," Plant said.

Generally feedback from the exhibitors we spoke to was positive, and in particular, it appeared that mobile refrigerators, electronics and motors were the big winners in terms of sales. Those exhibiting boats at the higher end/price bracket did comment that the show was, as named, more for the "tinnie" fisherman and so interest was slow.

Response to the various speakers at the show seemed to be mixed, but there was no doubt that the show's international guest, extreme fisherman Matt Watson from New Zealand, was a very popular speaker [Editors note: read our interview with Matt Watson next week!] and the kids clearly loved the 4BC Marine Workshops for kids.

One of the State's premier Bream fishing tournaments is run in conjunction with the show, with Team Samurai Reaction winning the 2011 Humminbird Queensland Open trophy and $8,000 and second prize going to Team Sunstate Hobie/TT Lures/Aussie Home Loans taking out second prize.

Marine Queensland, who organised the event, also wish to remind everyone that  the Brisbane Boat Show  will be held from the 25th to the 28th of August 2011 and dates for the 2012 Brisbane Tinnie and Tackle Show will be announced shortly.

Holy Sh*t or Bull Sh*t - American changes his name to Trout Fishing

Last week our mate Curt, sent us an email saying he had heard that there was a crazy American guy who changed his name to "Trout Fishing" and asking if it was true or "Bull Sh*t".

When we first heard this one, we have to say that we thought it was a bit much. Sure, we Aussies have our share of fishing nicknames , including our very own "Snapper" King, but would anyone (even an American) actually change their name to "Trout Fishing"?

Well it turns out that, as it so often does, truth really is stranger than fiction. According to reports from reputable news service Associated Press, a Carpinteria California teenager called "Peter Eastman Jr" changed his name to "Trout Fishing in America" to celebrate graduation from high school in April 1994. He took the name from a book, also called "Trout Fishing in America" written by American counter-culture author and poet Richard Brautigan in 1967.

We are pleased to see that good old "Trout" as presumably his friends now call him, had a supportive family. His father was reported at the time to have paid the $182 name-changing filing fee as a graduation present for his son.

Know of any other strange or unusual fishing names? We'd love to hear about it.

If you've seen a big fish photo, crazy fishing video or tall fishing story that sounds too good to be true send 'em all in to holy@fishmax.com.au and our team of reporters and experts will investigate and tell you whether they are truely "Holy Sh*t" or "Bull Sh*t"!

Thursday, April 14, 2011

20 lb Flying Silver Carp Make Fishing Easy

Now I am not sure we would want fishing to be like this all the time (no rod, no reel!?!) but it sure must be fun when it happens.




Flying silver carp jump and leap out of the water and in to the  boat of Indiana Outdoor Adventure TV hosts Troy McCormick and Mac Spainhour. These guys have to fend off the 20 pound fish as they attack the boaters and provide a boatload of fun and adventure. Thanks to Simmo for sending in this great funny fishing clip.

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Celebrity Interview - Andrew Symonds - never stop looking and learning

Exclusive FishMax Interview

Born in Birmingham, England, but definitely an Aussie larikin through and through, Andrew "Roy" Symond's is perhaps just as famous for "that fishing trip" as he is for his time playing cricket at the highest level.

Seriously though, like his good friend Matthew Hayden (interviewed by FishMax back in November) there is no questioning his commitment to fishing. So instead of getting caught up in talking about controversial cricketing incidents, in our FishMax exclusive interview, we focused on asking Symonds about the important stuff! Fishing!

FM: What’s your earliest fishing memory?
I have had a love for fishing since I can remember.  My earliest memories would have been fishing for black bream in the Burdekin River.

FM: Where is your favourite fishing spot?
Still looking for it.  I have a few haunts I regularly venture to but if I told you where they are then they wouldn’t be special anymore.

FM: Your best fishing story?
I hope this is still to come as well.

FM: Favourite fish recipe?
I am happy to be involved in the catching and the filleting but this is where I usually hand it over.  I am a keen crabber and they are pretty simple to cook up;

One Big Pot
Boil plenty of water
Add plenty of salt
Add plenty of mud crabs
Cook till they change colour then eat.

FM: What’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?
I’ve caught bigger fish but my mate Boxy has put me on to some big Red Emperor and they are about as much fun to catch as anything.

FM: How often do you go fishing?
As often as possible is the short answer, about 4 or 5 days a week currently.

FM: Where is the most exotic place you’ve been fishing?
I had a trip up New Guinea a couple of years ago and that is a pretty special place.  Amazing scenery and a real feeling of isolation.  Above all some great fishing. [Ed: Something we at Fishmax strongly agree with!]

FM: Do you have a fishing tip you’re willing to share?
I am still learning my game so my best tip is to listen to the experts.  If I can pass on anything make sure your hooks are sharp.  Its hard enough to get them to bite so no point in missing them with a blunt hook when they do.

Certainly, you won't get any argument from us about Andrew's "don't stop learning, don't stop looking" attitude. For us, its one of the signs of a true fishing fanatic!
Words: Stevo Perry Pics: Boab Boat Hire

Monday, April 11, 2011

Fishing Quote of the Week



"It is to be observed that 'angling' is the name
given to fishing by people who can't fish."
                                         Stephen Leacock                                           


Saturday, April 9, 2011

Fishing better than Golf Says Jack Nicklaus

World's Greatest Golfers Would Rather Go Fishing
Now many fishos also enjoy a game of golf, but there is no doubt that most of us would put fishing before golf every time, especially watching other people play golf!. Well it turns out we are not alone, evening golfing greats prefer fishing!

After Jack Nicklaus and fellow golfing legend Arnold Palmer (Nicklaus and Palmer have 108 Masters appearances and 10 champions' green jackets between them) ceremonially opened the US Masters yesterday, the man they call The Golden Bear was quoted as saying "I'm not going to sit around and watch a golf tournament," and boasted that he was going to pick up his rods and get on the water.

After telling reporters that there wasn't much for him to do at the Masters, Nicklaus, widly regarded as one of the greatest professional golfers of all time, went on to say "I can go sit in an office .... or go fishing. And that's what I'm going to do."

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Holy Sh*t or Bull Sh*t? American Changes His Name to "Trout Fishing"

In our Holy Sh*t or Bull Sh*t" series, we look at some of the wierd and wonderful fishing and boating stories that circulate the' net and dig deep behind the hype to find out the truth. Whether it's big fish photos, crazy fishing videos or tall fishing stories - our fearless reporters  investigate and answer the question -  "Holy Sh*t" or just plain "Bull Sh*t"?

Today we received an email from regular reader Curt asking about a guy who just seemed to love his fishing a little too much:

" Hi fellas, last night me and a few mates were sitting around telling "strange but true" stories, and my mate Davo says there is this guy in America who changed his name to "Trout Fishing". Now we all love our fishing, but that's going just a bit to far - is it true?"

Thanks Curt, we know some of those "septics" can be crazy, but this seems a little bit too much to swollow. Would anyone really legally change his name to "Trout Fishing"? We've put one of our reporters on to this, and we'll shortly be revealing whether this crazy fishing name story is "Holy Sh*t or Bull Sh*t".

Don't forget, if you've seen a big fish photo, crazy fishing video or tall fishing story that sounds too good to be true send 'em all in to holy@fishmax.com.au and our team of reporters and experts will investigate and tell you whether they are truely "Holy Sh*t" or "Bull Sh*t"!

Monday, April 4, 2011

BCF Club Nights - Worth the Effort?

When BCF first appeared on the scene back in 2005 there is no doubt that they shook up the way many of us thought about fishing & tackle stores (and the way many of us shopped for fishing rods, lures and other fishing gear). There are now over  60 BCF stores located all over Australia. The BCF chain is owned by listed company SuperCheapAuto Group Ltd, which incidently also owns the Ray's Outdoors chain with 48 stores.

This is one fishing tackle superstore chain that can't be ignored and has the capability to reach an enormous number of Australian fishermen.  When BCF does something, Aussie fishermen and other fishing tackle stores need to pay attention.

One of BCF's initiatives is their in store BCF club nights (We recently attended a BCF Club night at one of their Brisbane stores).

While BCF has its strengths and there is no doubt it's a place to buy some cheap fishing gear, we do seem to be hearing a lot of talk ( unfortunately not all good) about the club nights. Are the speakers really interesting enough to pull you out of home after a hard day at work? Are the specials which are claimed to be only for members, really that "special" ? Do the staff really know their stuff? Are there things BCF could do better to serve their BCF club members?

We'd love to hear what you think, so please leave us your comments (here or on our facebook page). Please be frank, but remember, this is a family fishing magazine so mind the language :)

Sunday, April 3, 2011

Travelling to Queensland to Fish?

Queensland is one Australia’s greatest fishing locations, with fantastic locations right across the coast that provide not only a great catch, but a great atmosphere for long days on the rod.


Fishing Fraser Island's Beaches
Located north of Brisbane, World Heritage listed Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island and features some 40 lakes. For anglers, Fraser Island is best known for the northern run of tailor which occurs between July and October. Large schools of tailor can be located by looking for circling sea birds and the distinctive ‘boiling’ water action that large schools of tailor produce.

If you have a 4wd and want to find yourself some cheap accomodation , you can always opt for camping, one of the best ways to enjoy Fraser.


On Cape York Peninsula, Weipa and nearby Albatross Bay offer excelent shallow water inshore angling for barramundi, , mangrove jacks, flathead, estuary cod, queenfish and trevally. The Wenlock River further north is famed for huge barramundi. At the tip of the peninsula, around Cape York, there are many deep drop-offs and reefs where coral trout and golden snapper can be found.


Fishing near the Urangan Pier
In Townsville, Cleveland Bay has large mangrove areas, especially around creek entrances. Fish these areas for mangrove jacks and barramundi. Try the main boat harbour in Townsville for bream, flathead, whiting, trevally and barramundi. The Ross River holds plentiful fish species and is best fished at low tide.


Around the tourist hotspot of Hervey Bay is more great fishing, for coral trout, red emperor, parrot fish, pink snapper, sweetlip, trevally, cobia and mackerel. For shore fishing, try Urangan Pier. Fish in winter for bream, tailor and dhufish, and in spring and summer for flathead and whiting.

Pics courtesy of Tourism Qld

Saturday, April 2, 2011

Dick Johnson's Famous Garlic Prawns

Recently we were lucky enough to interview Australian motor racing legend and avid fisherman, Dick Johnson.

 Johnson has claimed over twenty awards and honors including the V8 Supercar Hall of Fame into which he was inducted in 2001, but some of his greatest prizes have been on water (including a 950 pound marlinhe caught off Port Douglas he proudly told us about).

During the interview, Dick was also kind enough to tell us about his favourite seafood recipe, entitled (perhaps a little tongue in cheek), Dick Johnson's Famous Garlic Prawns!

INGREDIENTS :

1 kg green prawns
1 onion (chopped)
1 clove of garlic (slivered)
1 teaspoon crushed garlic
Pinch of salt
2 tbsp cognac
300ml cream
2 tbsp butter
Parsley (chopped)

METHOD :

Peel prawns and de-vein.

Cook green prawns in pan with butter.  Remove prawns and set aside.
Add chopped onions, slivered garlic and crushed garlic to remaining butter and liquid in pan.  Do not burn.
Add salt, cognac and cream and boil rapidly for about 5 minutes, stirring all the time.

Add cooked prawns and do not overcook.  Cook only for about 1 minute.

Add chopped parsley.

Serve with steamed rice.

To read the interview with Dick Johnson, click here.stars