LOOKING ahead into November, the long-term forecast suggests we may be settling into a stretch of average, unsettled weather.
We may need to prepare for a few weeks of showers and persistent windy conditions.
While this forecast may dampen some offshore plans, it often provides excellent conditions for estuary and freshwater action. It’s wise to take full advantage of this current week’s weather.
Across the region, river, rock, and freshwater fishing have continued to fire, offering anglers a thrilling variety of species, and providing plenty of action.
The Hastings River continues its reputation as a consistent fishery, with reports dominated by flathead and mulloway. These sought-after species are being found throughout the entire system, with a healthy mix of quality adult fish and smaller juveniles.
For those chasing a heavier line-stretching battle, mulloway have been making notable appearances; targeting the deeper sections of the river during the tide change using soft plastics has been the most effective strategy.
The offshore scene is also promising.
Close to shore, snapper have been highly cooperative in the waters south of the Lighthouse, with fish up to an impressive five kilograms succumbing to both well-presented bait and effective plastic lures.
Moving south, the fishing action remains diverse and productive.
Crowdy and further south has produced impressive rock fishing, with drummer being a definite highlight.
Bream have been active around most coastal headlands, but the area around Dunbogan has been particularly popular.
Offshore from this region, reports have included good hauls of teraglin and solid snapper.
Further north, the Macleay River has been a hive of activity, providing anglers with good numbers of flathead and bream, and even the occasional surprise kingfish reported around the river mouth.
Beach fishing near Hat Head has yielded a mixed bag including bream, dart, and flathead, while local offshore crews have also reported promising catches of snapper and kingfish further north.
Finally, freshwater enthusiasts have celebrated a fantastic start to the season, with bass numbers surging.
As the weather warms and summer approaches, the intensity of insect activity is set to increase dramatically.
By Kate SHELTON
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
