While the plans have been for a new rod and reel, knowing my luck, it will be another pair of socks or a handkerchief. Whatever you get, accept it in the spirit it was given.
Over the weekend, we can expect milder conditions — perfect for catching a fish or two.
Reports I have been receiving are promising.
The river levels have settled down, and the water is clear. This has improved the conditions for bait fishing. At this time of the year, all the usual baits, such as grubs, worms, yabbies and shrimp, plus cheese and chicken, have all been working to attract fish.
Still, you can also use lures such as hard-body style, as well as soft plastics and spinners. It is all about picking the right shape and colour that will attract a fish at the right time. So far as the local rivers and streams go, cod fishing is as good as it has been for a long time.
The best spots for catching cod are the Goulburn, Murray and Broken rivers, the Broken Creek around Nathalia, and Eildon. This time of year is considered a good time to fish for redfin. You can visit Eildon, the Hume Weir and the Waranga basin; all are tried and true redfin-producing spots.
Greens Lake once had an awesome reputation as a hot spot for redfin, and according to a report that I have just received, it is red-hot once again. Greens Lake is located midway between Shepparton and Bendigo, and while it is a relatively shallow waterway, it is worth fishing. Once you find a fishing spot, you will find the redfin will be in a school. Generally, the fish at Greens Lake are bigger than those at the similar Waranga Basin.
Drifting a bait or trolling a lure is considered the best method for redfin fishing; live shrimps, worms and small yabbies are the best baits.
If you are a trout angler, head for the rivers and streams of the north-east.
The best method entails getting in the water with the fish and wading. Cast a bait or lure to a spot where a fish might be.
Some anglers prefer to wear a fully waterproof set of waders, others just an old pair of jeans and sneakers, but the major drawback of being dressed in this fashion is the cold water. A third option is a full-length wetsuit. I tried a wetsuit and found it much warmer than normal jeans — but getting in and out of a wetsuit can be difficult.
Of course, when wading, you need to carry less gear, and a backpack is the easiest way to do this. I like to fish with a partner for a couple of reasons. The first is safety: they can help if you lose your footing and can assist you if you fall. Another reason is to share the load.
I have never learnt the skills needed for fly fishing, but for those who have, this is the time of year to get the best results.
Meanwhile, saltwater fishing is worth trying. According to Rod Lawn from Adamas Fishing Charters at Queenscliff, now is a good time to go.
Rod said kingfish were coming on the bite. Apart from being a great eating fish, kingfish will give you a great tussle when hooked.
Kingfish are found around structures such as rocky outcrops, and if hooked, will dive back to them, so the first few metres of the hook-up is most important. Fishing line and rocks do not mix, so get your hook up clear of them to save getting broken off.
Up north at Eden, John Liddell said the crew from Freedom Charters reported snapper and morwong.
It was a similar story at Narooma further north; Graham Cowley said it was a case of inshore reef fishing for the best results.
Down south at Flinders Island, James Luddington was bagging gummy sharks and flathead.
On behalf of Rod, John, Graham and James, have a happy and safe Christmas. I hope you get what you want for Christmas, and stay safe on the roads.
10°C