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Pro News Updated
by Bradley 19th Dec 2011
Pro News Updates.
Warren Keelen on the TMZ-I rods and Zillion baitcaster reels. For more information click here.
Mark Gercovich on fishing with kids. For more information click here.
Finally More Ballistics are in stores!
by Bradley 10th Dec 2011
More Ballistics arrrived this week and are in stores now.
For more information click here.
Join Us on Facebook
by Bradley 21st Nov 2011
Join us a on Facebook and get the latest gear updates, fishing news, greatest links plus lots of giveaways! This week were giving away 5 copies of the latest “Fishing DVD” to five lucky Facebook fans.
Join us at Daiwa’s Facebook page
Ballistic 2000 and 4000 have arrived.
by Bradley 4th Nov 2011
The Ballistic 2000 and 4000 models have just arrived and will be instores soon.
For more information click here.
T3 Ballistic has arrived
by Bradley 4th Nov 2011
The revolutionary T3 Ballistic has arrived.
For more information click here.
T3 has arrived
by Bradley 4th Nov 2011
The revolutionary T3 baitcaster in righthand has arrived.
For more information click here.
New Service Dept Section now live
by Bradley 20th Sep 2011
The new Daiwa Service Dept section is now live with heaps of information on maintence and servicing your reels. In it you can find the following.
General reel maintenance guide
- General rod maintenance guide
- Warranty section
- FAQ
- Service products
- Service and repair forms
- Service contacts
- Reel Schematics
For more information click here.
Pro News Updated
by Bradley 13th Sep 2011
The Pro News section has been updated and divided into individual sections for each angler. More updates coming soon from other Pro Staff and new stories/reviews. Click on any of the Pro Staff below to go straight through to their sections.
This Week on Hooked with Dave Butfield
by Bradley 12th Sep 2011
This week on Hooked with Dave Butfield, we head to Swansea in NSW and hook up with Jason Nunn to fish . The boys fish Lake Macquarie at night to chase bream using mullet, Dave and Jason show you some of the basic techqenics in catching bream. If you’ve never had much luck catching bream well this is a great show to tune your skill as Dave catches some amazing bream.
You can watch Hooked On Tackle World on Channel 183 every Tuesday night at 7:30pm and Saturday night at 6:30pm. Just so you don’t miss the fishing action Hooked On Tackle World will be aired 28 time throughout the week
Victorian rainbow trout equal to Australia’s best
by Bradley 26th Aug 2011
Trout produced from the Department of Primary Industries’ freshwater hatchery at Snobs
Creek are the equal of their Tasmanian cousins.
Some anglers have historically questioned the genetic integrity of Victorian rainbow trout
compared to their interstate counterparts, however new findings dispel that myth once and for
all.
Acting Fisheries Victoria Executive Director Jon Presser said new research funded by
recreational fishing licence fees showed Victorian trout grew and thrived just as well as trout
in Tasmania. “The research demonstrates the quality of the fish being bred by Fisheries Victoria is equal to
any in Australia, with nearly 460,000 rainbow trout stocked last year,” Mr Presser said.
The three year scientific trial compared the performance of Victorian strain rainbow trout
produced at Snobs Creek with Tasmanian strain fish sourced from the Great Lake population
at Liawenee. The rainbow trout were fin clipped by Fisheries Victoria staff to distinguish them and released
into privately owned catch and release lakes outside Ballarat.
Expert anglers who fish these lakes regularly monitored the performance of the rainbow trout
and kept detailed records of their catches. To ensure the trial was not biased, even the owners of the lakes did not know the origin of the
trout stocked in their waters. The results showed the Snobs Creek trout performed almost identically to the Tasmanian fish
with similar longevity, growth rates and catchability. Both strains survived until they were three to four years old when the trial ended.
Mr Presser said the results were good news for thousands of Victorian anglers who had been
enjoying bumper trout fishing in many lakes that were stocked with rainbow trout from Snobs
Creek following the drought breaking rains of this year and last.
“Many of these rainbow trout are growing exceptionally well in these lakes with many fish now
weighing over 1.2kg,” Mr Presser said.
Bumper snapper season for Port Phillip Bay
by Bradley 25th Aug 2011
Anglers can look forward to another exceptional snapper catch in Port Phillip Bay this spring.
Scientists from Fisheries Victoria are predicting the 2011-12 season will be a repeat of recent years, although catches will be moderate over the next three years. Researcher Paul Hamer said scientists were able to forecast the likely performance of the fishery based on the number of baby snapper that settled in Port Phillip Bay each year. “Baby snapper settle in the Bay during the late summer and early autumn following the
summer spawning season and this settlement determines the size of the catch in years to come,” Mr Hamer said. “Snapper spawned in Port Phillip Bay are the mainstay of Victoria’s ‘western snapper stock’ extending from Wilsons Promontory to the mouth of the Murray River.” Snapper is one of the most highly prized fish caught in Victoria by recreational and commercial fishers. Every year from late spring to early summer anglers launch boats all around Port Phillip Bay to catch snapper as they migrate into the bay for their annual spawning season. “The successful spawning and survival of young snapper in the bay varies greatly from year
to year,” Mr Hamer said. “Ten to twenty fold variations are common and this variation influences future catches. “We know these variations are related to factors influencing the snapper during their first few
weeks of life.”
Ongoing research is determining how water temperature, nutrient supply, river flows and currents influence the food supply, growth and survival of baby snapper in the Bay. Interviews with anglers revealed last year more than 80 percent of snapper caught were above 1kg and were at least 40cm long. One in four were big reds that weighed more than 3kg and were at least 60cm.
For more visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing
New Daiwa Freams in stores this week.
by Bradley 22nd Aug 2011
The long awaited Freams will be instores this week. For more information on these reels click here.
New 2011/2012 Daiwa catalogues available now
by Bradley 16th Aug 2011
The new 2011/2012 Daiwa Dealer and tournament catalogues are now available. to recieve your free copies click here.
New Caldia details revealed
by Bradley 12th Aug 2011
Daiwa has always had a long history of innovation, in 2010, Daiwa pioneered the ground breaking technology- Magseal and Air Rotor, a combination that the new set the future standard for all Daiwa spinning reels. Its unparalleled engineering produced Daiwa’s flagship reels – Saltiga and Certate. Now Daiwa expand its innovation with the new Caldia.
Caldia is a new era for Daiwa, an era where the introduction of innovations where Magseal, Air Rotor and Zaion are now available in mid range reels.
For more information click here.
New Seagate ready to battle the oceans monsters!
by Bradley 10th Aug 2011
The new Seagate is built tough from the start, with virtually all components being corrosion resistant for maximum reliability. Built for traditional boat fishing techniques, it will easily handle ultra-strong braided lines in addition to traditional monofilament. Seagate’s body frame and side plates are all constructed from corrosion resistant composite carbon for added protection and in addition with the CRBB bearing system it supports a rugged work horse train gear system for ultimate cranking strength.
Not only is the Seagate a fantastic traditional “boat” style reels it is also and amazing casting reel, the ultra light aluminium spool starts up quickly and its spool speed is controlled by centrifugal brakes to help control backlash.
For more information click here.
New Super Performance Low Budget Laguna
by Bradley 10th Aug 2011
The new Laguna is Daiwa’s finest budget baitcaster reel ever developed. For superior cast control it features Magforce which controls the spool speed to avoid over runs, but the new design features an open access low profile frame for more thumb control.
Its hand fitting comfort and high performance matched with its amazingly low price makes it ideal for anglers wanting to venture into baitcaster reels.
For more information click here.
New Crosscast X and S long cast reels.
by Bradley 10th Aug 2011
Do you fish from the beach or rocks and want to cast to the horizon? Then you need, Daiwa’s latest ultimate distance casting reels the Crosscast series.
This is the new surf casters dream reel. It features Daiwa’s stainless steel ball bearings for ultra smooth performance, Digigear for ultimate cranking power and Twistbuster to eliminate line twist. The all new long cast spool design will release line for high speed casting for incredible distance, then when hooked up the ultra smooth powerful drag lets you land the fish of a lifetime
If you want to reach far off rock reefs or cast beyond the breakers to catch that fish of a lifetime, then the all new ultimate distance casting reel, the Crosscast is the reel for you.
For more information click here.
Saltist HRF Type II debuts today.
by Bradley 10th Aug 2011
In 2011 Daiwa has upgraded one of the country’s favourite baitcaster reels with an all new UTD drag and cosmetics. So if your fishing takes you into the rugged salt water’s of the Australian coast then the all new Saltist HRF Type II is just what you’re looking for if you need a tough high-capacity, low-profile reel. Designed for either braided lines or monofilament, the Saltist HRF Type II will tackle any medium to heavy saltwater action you care to throw at it, from barramundi and jacks up north to mulloway and flathead down south.
For more information click here.
New Daiwa Aird available soon.
by Bradley 10th Aug 2011
Aird is Daiwa’s latest most feature packed reel ever developed in the price range. With all of Daiwa’s unique designs like Digigear, Airbail, ABS etc this reel is easily mistaken for its more expensive cousins.
For more information click here.
Z200H now available
by Bradley 9th Aug 2011
The new Z200h is now available.
For more information click here.
Pixy PX Type R
by Bradley 9th Aug 2011
The new Pixy PX Type R has just landed.
The finesse anglers dream reel, the new Pixy PX Type R is Daiwa’s ultimate lightweight baitcaster. Developed specifically for Japans high pressure, high intensity bass fisheries, where anglers are required to use ultra light lines and lures to tempt fish into striking.
The new shallow Super duraluminium “air” spool will spin with the lightest of weights, right down to small bream and trout sized lures, casting effortlessly and accurately. While the finesse Magforce Z system will apply breaking when necessary to prevent over-run.
For more information click here.
Tanacom Bull 500 now available
by Bradley 4th Jul 2011
The new Tanacom Bull 500 is now available.
For more information click here
New Video Section
by Bradley 28th Jun 2011
Daiwa’s new Video section is now up and running.
For more information click here.
Saltiga Dorado review
by Bradley 16th Jun 2011
For the past ten years the original Saltiga rods set a new industry standard as the strongest and lightest offshore rods available. After a decade these rods are envied by other manufacturers and are a true testament of how advanced the rod’s technology was, they remain unchanged, and technology hungry anglers still regard these as the best available that were until now with the introduction of the Saltiga Dorado rod series.
Designed to match the awesome power of the new Saltiga reels the new rod series heralds a new design concept – 3D carbon design. Combining Daiwa’s famous Bias Wrap Construction for ultimate strength, power, light weightiness and ultra slim blank diameter with the X-Torque design, a design that resists blanks twisting and massively increasing torque, Daiwa has created their greatest ever casting rod design.
Having used all of these rods extensively from the very first development of the first prototypes, I thought I would give anglers a rundown of what each different model is suited for, so check it out by clicking here.
New Daiwa Apparel section
by Bradley 15th Jun 2011
The new Daiwa Apparel section is now online, featuring Daiwa’s latest Tournament shirts, Jigging Gloves, Columbia Clothing and Caps.
For more information click here.
Crosscast 5500 now available.
by Bradley 31st May 2011
Do you want to cast to the horizon? Then you need, Daiwa’s latest ultimate distance casting reels the Crosscast S. Sporting a new shape, look and performance the Crosscast S 5500 introduces beginners to the world of distance surf and rock casting.
This is the new surf casters dream reel. It features 3 of Daiwa’s stainless steel ball bearings for ultra smooth performance, Digigear for ultimate cranking power and Twistbuster to eliminate line twist. The all new long cast spool design will release line for high speed casting for incredible distance, then when hooked up the ultra smooth powerful drag lets you land the fish of a lifetime
If you want to reach far off rock reefs or cast beyond the breakers to catch that fish of a lifetime, then the all new ultimate distance casting reel, the Crosscast S is the reel for you.
For more information click here.
The Fishing DVD no.23 out soon!
by Bradley 27th May 2011
The Fishing DVD #23 out soon is jam-packed with action, information, tips, destinations and product reviews… and you don’t have to read it! In just over two hours of spectacular, high-definition vision, this broadcast-quality “DVD Magazine” brings it all to your lounge room, den, holiday house, office or laptop computer – whenever and wherever YOU choose to view! Watch it all, from start to finish, or choose the stories and segments you like most, then view them over and over, at your leisure. Re-wind, slow mo’, freeze frame and fast-forward to all the juicy bits..
For more information click here.
Pro News Updated
by Bradley 26th May 2011
Check out the latest lure pro news.
Greg Seeto gives some insights into using the Baby Crank, for more information click here.
Chris Seeto gives the low down on one of the hottest lures out, the Gekkabijin Vib 3s. For more information click here.
Pro News Updated
by Bradley 12th May 2011
Check out the latest pro reviews.
Mark Gerkovich gives his insights on winter vibing with the Gekkabijin Vib 3S, for more information click here.
Adam Royter dissects Daiwa’s latest New Era fly reels giving you a full insiders look on its construction. Foe more information click here.
Lake Boga Restocking
by Bradley 11th May 2011
Lake Boga restocking to lure recreational fishers
The Victorian Coalition Government is boosting recreational fishing opportunities at Lake Boga by resuming stocking of the iconic Murray cod.
Minister for Agriculture and Food Security and The Nationals Member for Swan Hill Peter Walsh today helped release 15,000 cod fingerlings into the lake.
“Over time these cod will lure more recreational fishers to our region, boosting Lake Boga’s economy and re-establishing the lake as a popular fishing destination,” Mr Walsh said.
“It will have flow-on effects, not just for Lake Boga businesses which depend heavily on recreational activities such as fishing and boating, but also for Kerang and Swan Hill.”
Mr Walsh said Lake Boga had been doing it tough in recent years after the lake completely dried up in 2008.
“The last time the lake was stocked was in 2005 and 2006 when small numbers of golden perch and Murray cod were released,” Mr Walsh said.
“Restocking is again possible thanks to the spring and summer rainfall which refilled the lake.
“The fish will grow to a catchable size in the next three to five years and will help make Lake Boga a great recreational fishery again.”
Mr Walsh said revenue raised from the sale of recreational fishing licences was funding the restocking of Lake Boga.
“The Victorian Coalition Government is committed to returning all revenue raised from the sale of recreational fishing licences to the industry for infrastructure works, restocking and education programs,” Mr Walsh said.
“We are also providing an extra $16.2 million over the next four years to breed more fish and provide more opportunities for recreational fishers.
“Lake Boga is one of 17 lakes and rivers being restocked by Fisheries Victoria with native fish this month as inland waters recover from the drought,” Mr Walsh said.
T3 Details now online.
by Bradley 5th May 2011
The information on the new upcoming T3 baitcasters due for release in mid winter is now online.
For more information click here.
New Freams coming this winter
by Bradley 31st Mar 2011
The new Freams heralds a giant leap forward in reel innovation. In 2010 Daiwa introduced Magseal in its flagship spinning reels – Saltiga and Certate, this incredible innovation introduced the most technically advanced spinning reel design ever. Though this system is superb it is not that economical to introduce into lower price spinning reels. Daiwa recognized this and developed another system that would suit these reels and called it ‘Oil Seal”.
Available mid winter 2011.
For more information click here.
This Week on Hooked with Dave Butfield
by Bradley 24th Feb 2011
This week on Hooked Dave takes a step back in time and looks at some of the fantastic locations he’s fished throughout the year. On this show you’ll see monster Kings being caught, giant flathead, black bream, big snapper and so much more also we take a look at some of the great viewers photos that have been sent in to the show.
Hooked with Dave Butfield can be seen on the Aurora TV network. For more information go to www.hookedtv.com.au
This Week on Hooked with Dave Butfield
by Bradley 16th Feb 2011
This week on Hooked Dave hooks up the Skeeter boat and heads to the little sleepy town of Moruya on the New South Wales south coast. Maruya is famous for big flathead and also holds some great bream. This week Dave uses the Daiwa tournament master Z interline Rods and also using hardbody and soft plastic lures.
Hooked with Dave Butfield can be seen on the Aurora TV network. For more information go to www.hookedtv.com.au
Pro News Updated.
by Bradley 10th Feb 2011
The Pro news section has been updated with two superb reviews from opposite sides of the country.
Hal Hervey from the Bluewater stores in Western Australia reports on the new Saltiga 5000 and Tournament Master Surf rods. Click here for the pro review.
Sydney Tournament angler Greg Seeto reflects on his experience using the amazing TMZ-i 662ULFS rod. Click here for more information.
Daiwa Exist 1003 back in stock
by Bradley 10th Feb 2011
Daiwa Exist
In 2004 the Japanese tackle manufacturer Daiwa introduced the Real Four Concept – Real engine, Real control, Real endurance, Real custom setting the new standard in spinning reel design and innovation.
After setting the bench mark for high end spinning reel design Daiwa developed the world’s most advanced tournament spinning reel the Daiwa Exist.
The first thing you notice when you pick up an Exist is its weight. The machined Super Metal body and Engine plate is incredibly light weight yet exhibits amazing strength and has been ion treated to resist saltwater intrusion. This construction supports the re-vamped high accuracy Digigear drive and silent oscillation system to produce smoother rotary efficiency and increased cranking power like never before.
The Exist uses Daiwa’s ultimate reel designs, like Silent Oscillation II, Dura-aluminum machined main shaft, 2 sealed ball bearing, titanium coated Twist Buster 2 line roller and rotor brakes to name a few.
Each Exist is individually constructed, serial numbered and is made with the highest quality materials available. Designed for the serious tournament angler, the Exist is sure to set the standard for the ultimate in spinning reel technology.
For more information click here.
New Eging and Finesse reels just arrived!
by Bradley 10th Feb 2011
The new Emeraldas Infeet 2506 and Gekkabijin MX 2004 have just arrived!
For more information on Emeraldas Infeet click here.
For more information on Gekkabijin MX 2004 click here.
New Eging rods just arrived!
by Bradley 9th Feb 2011
The new Emeraldas Infeet guided version and Liberty Club Eging guided rods have just landed!
For more information on Emeraldas Infeet click here.
For more information on Liberty Club click here.
New Eging Gear available soon.
by Bradley 2nd Feb 2011
Daiwa’s range of new eging gear will land on our shores soon. Check out the latest gear below.
Emeraldas Infeet Rods – click here
Liberty Club Eging Rods – click here
Emeraldas Infeet 2506 reel – click here
Daiwa ABT Mallacoota Story.
by Bradley 1st Feb 2011
Jarrod Healey, a 30 year old Landscape Gardener from Noble Park has claimed victory in the first qualifying event of the 2011 Daiwa BREAM Series with a substantial 10/10, 10.43kg limit.
The EJ Todd sponsored angler has been spending his Christmas holidays at the iconic Mallacoota township since he was a child and this year was no different. Healey picked up a cool $2400 for the win, $500 for the 1.49kg big bream and an additional $250 for being the highest placed Mercury owner.
His second career victory since his last at Mallacoota back in 2008, Healey claims he struggled on the prefish to find fish or productive areas.
“I used past experience and would sight cast to feeding or cruising fish along snags or sand flats,” he said.
“Working both the top and bottom lake, I would only get 1 fish at a time, not 2 or 3. Infact, I caught 7 legals on day one and only 6 on day two,” he continued.
Targeting these large solitary fish meant that Healey’s bag was going to be healthy as long as he could find enough to fill his limit. Day one’s 5/5, 6.13kg bag set up his victory, putting Jarrod over a kilo in front of his nearest rival. Of course this was cemented with his 1.49kg kicker fish, which ultimately won big bream.
Healey used a G.Loomis SR842 matched to a new Daiwa Certate 2004 and a G.Loomis DSR820 with a new Daiwa Certate 2506 both spooled with 3lb Stren Microfuse and 4lb Sunline FC Rock leader.
His lures of choice for the weekend consisted of a shallow Cranka Shad in toffee apple colour, a deep diving Jackall Chubby in brown suji and a Berkley camo worm rigged on a 1/32 Nitro jighead; the Cranka Shad accounting for the big bream.
“The bigger fish are on the banks, but it is a matter of having the patience to be rewarded,” said Healey.
“Day 2 I didn’t have my first fish till 9.15am, I got my five fish, but you are never sure what limits will come in at Mallacoota,” he continued.
Testament to this theory is Shaun Clancy’s victory from 10th place in the 2010 Daiwa BREAM Grand Final with a 5.58kg limit at this venue.
Taking home $1500 in second place was Warrnambool based angler Mark Gercovich with a 10/10, 9.21kg limit. In his first visit to Mallacoota, Gercovich found some good yellowfin bream on the flats during prefish. Remembering back to the 2007 BREAM Grand Final at Lake Macquarie catching yellowfin, Gercovich used a slow rolling crankbait technique to fill his bag.
Gercovich used a Daiwa Interline TMZ776 matched to a Daiwa Sol 2000 spooled with 3lb Yamatoyo Famell Spinning Fluorocarbon and a Daiwa Saltist Hard Rock Fish with a Daiwa Sol 2000 with 2lb straight through fluorocarbon.
He used a Jackall Chubby in suji shrimp and a Zipbait Rigge 46MDR in colour 809 for cranking the flats. On day 2, when there was no wind and bright sunny conditions, he headed to deeper water looking for bream with an Ecogear VX35 in colour 439.
“Using the Humminbird 898SI sounder, I was able to identify some good schools. Using a simple lift, drop technique I was able to pick up a 36cm and a 37cm on the vibs. When the wind picked up again, I then headed back to the flats,” he explained.
Champion non boater for the Atomic Mallacoota Qualifier was Darryl Hislop, a 41 year old brick layer from Colac in his first ABT event (9/10, 6.31kg). Taking home a swag of Daiwa goodies including two rod and reel outfits his wire to wire victory was set up with a 5/5, 4.05kg day one limit fishing with Tony Pettie and completed with a 4/5, 2.26kg limit with Dave Welfare.
Hislop used a G.Loomis 842 rod and a Shimano Sustain 2500 spooled with 4lb Berkley Crystal Fireline and 5lb FC Rock leader.
Heading upriver on day one, the pair worked in 6ft of water around Gypsy Point, Hislop choosing to throw a mid range Smith Camion in natural colours and a deep Jackall Chubby in suji shrimp, all retro fitted with Owner ST11 ultra light trebles.
“I was trying to work the lures across the bottom structure with the occasional flick,” explained Hislop.
Day 2 saw him venture out to the middle of the bottom lake working Ecogear VX40 blades in colour 439 and a variety of Berkley plastics before working the sand drop offs at Goodwin Sands.
The Atomic sponsored event was once again heavily promoted by Frogley’s Offshore. National Sales Manager Jay Morgan handing out a $100 lure pack to every angler at the briefing as well as a swag of Atomic, Bassday and Samurai Reaction rods to those anglers weighing in the largest Atomic or Bassday caught bream over the weekend. The lure displays on site were impressive to the attending public and the amount of kilo plus bream being weighed in on these lures testament to their popularity.
The top 4 boaters and non boaters have now qualified for the end of year Daiwa BREAM Grand Final at Forster and can relax, save and plan for the main event.
The focus now turns to Tasmania where the much anticipated St Helens and Derwent rounds will be held in early March. Let’s keep a close eye on any record breaking attempts, of course, all the action of the Rapala Derwent Super Series event will be streamed live on www.bream.com.au.
For all competition results click here
One Million Cod for Lake Eildon
by Bradley 27th Jan 2011
The Victorian Government today released 30,000 Murray cod fingerlings into Lake Eildon as part of its commitment to restock the lake with an additional one million fish.
Minister for Agriculture and Food Security Peter Walsh said Lake Eildon was being stocked thanks to an $800,000 project funded by fishing licence fees.
“One million cod will be released over three years, in addition to the 50,000 a year already being released,” Mr Walsh said.
“More than 380,000 Murray cod have now gone into the lake this summer stocking season, which is a native fish stocking record for any Victorian water.”
Parliamentary Secretary for Primary Industries Bill Sykes was on hand for today’s release which marks the final stage of this season’s Murray cod stocking into Lake Eildon.
Mr Walsh said the Coalition had committed to increasing funding by $4 million over the next four years in addition to returning all revenue raised from fishing licences to the recreational fishing industry.
“Lake Eildon will also be stocked with 200,000 golden perch fingerlings in autumn along with trout releases during the cooler months of 2011,” Mr Walsh said.
“These cod, perch and trout will grow very well, given the high water level and productive inundated ground that is brimming with microscopic life.”
Mr Walsh said the project, titled ‘Murray Cod Million – Lake Eildon’, also involves active monitoring by a dedicated team of volunteer anglers and fisheries scientists from Snobs Creek.
“We will track the progress of this large pulse of juvenile cod by combining expert angler feedback with formal surveys by researchers,” Mr Walsh said.
Executive Director of Fisheries Victoria Anthony Hurst said Alexandra fisheries officers had reported good angler catches of Murray cod from Lake Eildon over the last year with many fish approaching minimum size and several over 80 centimetres.
“This confirms cod stockings over the last 15 years have worked, which bodes well for the expanded approach we are adopting for the next few years.”
For more information about projects that are improving fishing opportunities by putting fishing licence fees to work visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing/feesatwork.
This Week On Hooked with Dave Butfield
by Bradley 23rd Jan 2011
On this weeks show of Hooked Dave heads to beautiful Sydney Harbour To chase Kingfish. This is a great show with loads of non-stop action. On this show Dave shows you how the catch kingfish around structure using hardbody lures and soft plastics. Dave uses the Daiwa Tournament Master Z inter-line rods and puts them through their paces.
Hooked with Dave Butfield can be seen on the Aurora TV network. For more information go to www.hookedtv.com.au
Daiwa Japan’s TV show “The Fishing” now online.
by Bradley 21st Jan 2011
The long running Japanese Tv show “The Fishing” is now available to watch on line. Daiwa Japan has been the sponsor of this program for the past 27 years and show cases the latest trends in japanese fishing styles and tackle. If you are interested in whats happening in Japan then you can now go online to - www.fishingch.jp/index.html , click on “The Fishing” icon on the far right of the page. Although the content is in japanese many anglers will find it both interesting and fascinating to watch some of the worlds finest anglers using the most advanced techniques.
Hickson Hauls to Victory in Australian Open
by Bradley 18th Jan 2011
Kris Hickson claimed the biggest win in his tournament career to date with a come from behind victory in the Daiwa BREAM Australian Open, 12/14th January. Claiming the win for personal and event sponsor Daiwa, Hickson eclipsed a talented field of anglers with the Port Macquarie breamer charging from 4th on day two to 1st on day three thanks to his 3.54kg final day bag.
Compiling a 15/15, 9.56kg limit to claim the Australian Open title, Hickson also leapfrogged Steve Morgan to become Australia’s number one ranked BREAM angler and secure a long held personal goal.
Falling 370 grams short of denying Hickson his goal was 2008 Australian Open winner John Balcomb who compiled a 15/15, 9.19kg three day bag to come within one decent fish of toppling Hickson from the winner’s dais and adding another event win to his impressive Sydney Harbour tournament CV.
Victory though belonged to Hickson, with the Daiwa bream pro inscribing his name into the records book as the winner of the inaugural boater-only Daiwa BREAM Australian Open.
Fishing a milk run of wind blown marinas between Putney and the Harbour Bridge, Hickson would start each morning at Rozzelle Bay, hitting boats and pontoons that he could see holding fish underneath.
“I used my Blue Eye sunnies to spot fishing hanging and feeding on the floating structure then took my lure straight to them”, explained Hickson.
With his targets located Hickson would cast his 1/28th oz, size 1, TT HWS rigged Squidgy Lobby in dusk colour, at the fish, delicate enough not to spoke the fish, yet tight enough to get their interest. He’d then let the lure sink watching for any signs of interest from fish.
“As it sank you’d see the fish break away and follow the Lobby down, so you’d watch the line closely looking for the slightest tick that indicated a bite”, explained Kris.
If there was no hit Hickson would give the lure a couple of small hops before winding it back in and repeating the process.
The approach was spot on deliver Hickson a string of fish each day, but it was out on the more wind blown locations later in the day where he’d chang his approach and fish more by feel than by sight.
Swapping to 80mm Squidgy Wrigglers in dusk, flash prawn, and wasabi colours, Hickson keyed in on the poles, walls and parallel pieces of man-made structure, pitching the offering tight to structure, sinking it 4-6 feet down then working it back with a hop-pause-drop retrieve.
The modification in presentation was just what the doctor order and the kept Hickson catching when the fish weren’t holding high in water column and feeding shallow.
Hickson hit each of his locations at least once each day, returning only twice a day to a handful of spots that had plenty of fish in residence.
“There were a few spots where you’d hook a fish, pull it out and there’d been a heap of others following it out. So I’d rest it and come back later and pick up another one”, explained Hickson.
Managing his fish to perfection Hickson showed equal foresight during the official prefish, using his time more to locate fish rather than to catch them. The later being a mistake that many tournament anglers all too regularly make.
“I spent most of Tuesday just driving arriving looking for fish hanging under structure and throwing topwaters when I wanted to see if they were going to respond to lures”, explained Kris.
Hickson’s restraint paid off with Australian Open champion landing 30 fish on the first day, and despite missing a few crucial bites he found himself sitting mid field and firmly in contention heading into day two and three. Especially on a waterway that regularly produces four and five kilo plus bags.
The bigger bites came and stuck on day two with Hickson weighing in 3.43kg and jumping to 4th place. Day three was when it all came together with Hickson dropping only one big fish and catching his biggest bag for tournament (3.54kg).
“Driving back to the weigh-in I thought I may be in with a chance, but for it to happen meant that the leader (Steve Morgan) would have to stumble and nobody could nail a big bag”, explained Kris.
And that’s exactly what happened. Holding the hot seating with only one more bag to weigh, it was only Steve Morgan that stood between Hickson and the win. Needing 2.92kg to win Morgan fell short, weighing in only 2.35kg and handing Hickson his first Daiwa BREAM Australian Open trophy. As a Daiwa sponsored angler it was perhaps karmic influences as well as shear angling talent that saw Hickson claim victory in the Daiwa sponsored event.
The tackle his used of course was dominated by Daiwa, with Hickson using a Daiwa 701 LFS Sol rod, Daiwa Sol 2000 reel, spooled with 6lb Daiwa Tournament Hi Visibility braid, and Daiwa TDR Competition fluorocarbon when throwing his HWS rigged Squidgy Lobbies, and a Daiwa Interline TMZ-I 662ULFS rod, Daiwa Sol 2000 reel, spooled with 6lb Daiwa Tournament Hi Visibility braid, and Daiwa TDR Competition fluorocarbon when using fishing 80mm Squidgy Wrigglers.
Post victory Hickson was ecstatic with his start to the new tournament season and his third tournament win in 12 months.
“One of my goals for the season was to maintain the consistence that I’ve achieved over the last couple of years. If I continue this then the rewards such as ranking points, prize money and Grand Final qualification will more than likely come also”, explained Hickson.
With a full calendar of BREAM events ahead of us the battle to see who grabs the lion’s share of rewards will be an exciting one to watch. Will Steve Morgan regain his number one ranking from Hickson or will a new angler emerge, on time and tournaments will tell.
For event runner-up John Balcomb is was another success tournament on Sydney Harbour with the tackle store salesman falling just short of claiming his second open victory.
Fishing the marinas that had served him well in the past, Balcomb focused on particular locations, namely Balmain, Birkenhead, Walsh Bay, and a rock wall situated at the back of Blackwattle Bay.
Fishing 2″ Berkley Gulp Minnow Grubs in camo and watermelon colour and rigged on 1/16th oz and 1/20th oz, size 4 and size 2 Nitro jigheads, Balcomb’s approach was tight, structure fishing to say the least.
“It was essential to drift the plastic in and under the pontoons and structure and into the kelp that hung down”, explained Balcomb.
Once the lure was in the kelp Balcomb would let it sit for a while before ripping it out to continue its sink.
“It was as soon as the plastic came free from the kelp and started to sink that most of the fish would hit the plastic”, explained Balcomb.
If no hits came Balcomb would simply wind it back in and make another cast.
“The fish were holding tight to the kelp so you needed to make sure you got your plastic in there, if you didn’t you didn’t get the bites”, explained Balcomb.
As the tide rose later in the day Balcomb changed tact and headed into Blackwattle Bay to fish a rock wall that was primed to fire with the high tide on it, and that’s exactly what it did with Balcomb picking up the tournament’s second biggest day one fish 1.03kg) and the biggest fish (1.29kg) on day three.
“The technique was the same as on the marina, cast it close to the structure, drift it in and wait for the fish to hit it”, explained Balcomb.
The approach fired on day three will John weighing in the biggest bag for the day (3.56kg) and the second biggest for the tournament. If it wasn’t for losing a couple of fish in the kelp and a conservative day two bag (2.64kg) he may have had enough to claim his second Australian Open title.
Far from disappointed with the outcome Balcomb was pumped to simply be on the water.
“Any day on the water is a good day, and I’m just stoked to finish second and pick up $3000 and the Daiwa prizes for the two big fish”, explained a jubuliant Balcomb.
The tackle he used to catch his cash and prize winning fish included a 7’2″, 2-4kg Quantum Response rod, Quantum Energy reel, spooled with 6lb Rovex Viros braid, and 4lb Sufix fluorocarbon leader.
Balcomb wasn’t alone when it came to sharing in the spoils of the Daiwa Big Bream Prizes, with a Daiwa Tournament Master X Interline 762LFS rod and 2000 Daiwa Luvius reel outfit awarded to the biggest bream each day and a Daiwa Saltist Rockfish RF75PE rod, and 2004 Daiwa Infeet reel outfit awarded to the second biggest bream each day. Joining Balcomb on the list of big bream winners were Corrie Stewart, Josh Carpenter and Scott Butler.
With the new individual format of The Open proving a huge success and silencing most doubters the 2012 Daiwa BREAM Australian Open is destined to see the field swell and anglers champing at the bit be part of one of the most unique and prestigious events on the BREAM calendar.
Attention now turns to the Daiwa BREAM Series with round two slated for the 29/30th January at Mallacoota. With the opening round on the Gold Coast rescheduled due to the Queensland floods anglers will be extra keen to hit the water and get breaming.
Daiwa BREAM Australian Open Final Results
by Bradley 14th Jan 2011
Steve Morgan stumbles and Kris Hickson nails the fish on the final day of the Daiwa BREAM Australian Open to take victory in the one of the most prestegious events on the BREAM calendar.
Catching his biggest bag for the tournament on the final day Hickson (15/15, 9.19kg) relegated a strong finishing John Balcomb (15/15, 9.05kg) to second place and Russell Babekuhl (15/15, 9.01kg) to third place.
Full story and updated ranking points to follow soon
The New Revolutionary Vibe coming this Autumn.
by Bradley 6th Jan 2011
The Gekkabijin Vib 3S is an all new “vibe”. Imitating the small shrimps that are so prevalent throughout estuaries, bays, rivers and streams, the Gekkabijin Vib 3S will definitely be one of the lures to watch on the ABT Tournament trail in 2011. Guaranteed to be a live well filler for bream, it will be equally effective on bass, trout, estuary perch or just about anything that eats small shrimp!
Unlike any other available it features a hollow plastic body, giving it a full body profile and the internal weight system causes the lure to sink nose forward to avoid snagging. On a slow crank it produces a wide wobble but speed it up and the tight high pitched wiggle attracts any predatory fish.
Handmade to the highest standards, these lures feature 3D realistic eyes, ultra sharp HD chemically sharpened treble with lifelike skirt and are painted internally with chip proof paint for an incredible lifelike finish.
Available early Autumn 2011 the Gekkabijin Vib 3s will be available in four fish attracting colours.
More information will be available soon.
Saltiga 2010′s Zaion Air Rotor
by Bradley 5th Jan 2011
The New Saltiga introduces revolutionary technology. To understand this Daiwa’s Development Engineers explain this leading technology. Zaion Air Rotor – the advancement of rotary revolution.
Rotor Revolution
Making use of the magnetic fluid technology, which prevents foreign matter like seawater, salt and sand penetrating the reel, the new Saltiga has become the most advanced spinning reel in the world. The basic structure of the spinning reel has remained the same for the past 80 years. Early reels had the spool buried completely in the rotor and this created many issues with line flow.
Then 44 years ago Daiwa introduced the spool out system, a system that has become the standard design today of every reel manufacturer. Line flows easily from the spool to the line guide creating unparalleled casting distance and accuracy.
There are several main roles for the rotor in the spool out system.
The first is to rotate around the spool to wind on the line. The second is to support the bail arm and line roller assembly. The third is to prevent foreign material penetrating the reel’s body.
It has been Daiwa’s desire to create a rotor that would increase sensitivity, reduce weight and retain strength. The new design needed to be lightweight, rigid, have equivalent strength to alloys and be a progressive design philosophy of functional beauty.
Daiwa attained this goal with the introduction of Zaion Air Rotor, and a rotor revolution was produced.
Zaion
Randomly shaving the meat from something is not necessarily a good idea if you want to save weight. Though Air Rotor looks like it has been shaved down it has not. The functional beauty of Air Rotor is like no other – a revolution in sensitivity through design.
The new rotor serves several functions.
Firstly, it supports the line roller. In older reels, line is pulled instantly from the spool to the line roller creating stress and flexing. The new arch in Air Rotor disperses pressure to the entire lower section of the rotor, dramatically decreasing stress and flexing.
Sensitivity is a feature of Air Rotor. The rotor is made from Zaion and it transmits vibration through the reel more efficiently than ever before and it is 35% lighter and stronger than a conventional rotor made from the same material. By hollowing out the rotor system Daiwa has created a lighter component with more surface area. This increases strength and better transmits vibration. With less weight there is also better balance, helped by a lower centre of gravity. All these attributes combine to give you a reel that transmits ‘feel’ like never before.
Working in conjunction with Mag Seal, the Air Rotor has been hollowed out to create airflow through the whole rotor system. This prevents foreign material such as water, salt, sand and dust collecting inside the reel. The added air flow eliminates moisture build up in the reel preventing corrosion issues.
Historically Daiwa used magnesium to reduce a reel’s weight, and then in 2008, Daiwa developed Zaion. Zaion is a new material, composed of carbon resin and long carbon fibres. This high density material is light, strong and resists corrosion. This material has generally been used in reel bodies but, with continual development and by introducing carbon fibres, Zaion material far exceeds the strength of magnesium in a strength per unit weight comparison.
Zaion Air Rotor has made sensitive fishing possible, not just because of the carbon material but also the balance point. The new rotor has allowed the reel’s centre of gravity to be placed at the rear of the reel, directly below the rod’s reel seat and angler’s hand, creating better balance and sensitivity.
The world of sensitive saltwater lure fishing is brought to you by Zaion.
YOUR FISHING LICENCE FEES AT WORK IN LAKE WENDOUREE
by Bradley 29th Dec 2010
Freshwater anglers at Lake Wendouree have plenty to celebrate now the lake is full, trout stocking has resumed and two fishing platforms built with licence revenue can now be used.
The City of Ballarat built the northern Durham Point fishing platform many years ago, followed by another one at St Patrick’s Point, completed in 2006 when the lake was dry.
Both fishing platforms were built using $78,386 from the Recreational Fishing Grants Program, which reinvests money from the sale of fishing licences into projects that improve angling opportunities.
Built over dense bank side vegetation, the St Patrick’s Point fishing platform ensures land-based anglers have access to the deeper sections of the lake and enjoy clear casting to open water.
These platforms contribute to a broader rejuvenation program in the Lake Wendouree precinct.
With both platforms providing access for all, the City of Ballarat is improving visitor facilities for the lake, focusing on path, bridge and beach access points.
Revenue received from the sale of recreational fishing licences has also been used to stock Lake Wendouree once again.
Executive Director of Fisheries Victoria, Anthony Hurst, said the high lake level and improved water conditions allowed the release of 90,000 rainbow trout fry in November.
“We are looking forward to restoring Lake Wendouree to its former glory as one of Victoria’s most popular and productive trout fisheries,” Mr Hurst said
Since its inception in 2001, the Recreational Fishing Grants Program has funded over 345 projects, worth more than $13.5 million.
For more information about how angling licence fees are being spent to improve fishing opportunities visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing/feesatwork or ring the DPI Customer Service Centre on 136 186.
Restocking hooks anglers more rainbow & brown trout
by Bradley 22nd Dec 2010
More than 187,000 trout have been stocked into formerly drought-affected lakes and reservoirs across Victoria, thanks in part to $231,000 from fishing licence revenue. Ballarat’s Lake Wendouree received the majority of 90,000 rainbow trout fry stocked in November while another 75,000 brown trout fry will be released into waterways around the state this month. Peter Walsh, Minister for Agriculture and Food Security, and responsible for fisheries,said a large number of small trout had been sourced at short notice from the Department of Primary Industries’ own hatchery at Snobs Creek and other private trout hatcheries in northeast Victoria. “We have been fortunate to find so many trout available, given few growers had anticipated such a wet season after many years of lower than average rainfall,” Mr Walsh said. “To have so many lakes fill with water in one year, and to stock them so quickly, exceeded most freshwater anglers’ expectations.” Mr Walsh said anglers could look forward to improved fishing over the next few years with an increase in funding under the Coalition Government. “The Baillieu-Ryan Government has committed to returning all the revenue raised from the sale of recreational fishing licences to the industry for infrastructure works, stocking and education programs,” Mr Walsh said. “In addition, we will increase funding to the industry by $4 million over the next four years.” Other stockings into recovering waters include: . 4,000 into Greenhill Lake, near Ararat, and 2,000 into Lake Beaufort . 15,000 into Cairn Curran Reservoir near Maldon . 3,000 into Teddington (Top) Reservoir and 1,500 in Teddington (Bottom) Reservoir . 10,000 into Hepburn Lagoon and 7,000 into Newlyn Reservoir . 2,000 into Deep Lake at Derrinallum . 4,000 into Barkers Creek Reservoir, Harcourt, in addition to 1,000 stocked in June . 10,000 into Rocklands Reservoir, Balmoral, in addition to 5,000 stocked in July . 10,000 into Tullaroop Reservoir, Carisbrook …/2 . 10,000 into Tooliorook Lake, Lismore . 5,000 into Bostock Reservoir at Ballan . 5,000 into Lake Bolac . 4,000 into Batyo Catyo Lake at Rich Avon . 5,000 into Lake Burrumbeet, near Ballarat Fisheries Victoria executive director Anthony Hurst said while the trout stocking season was drawing to a close, preparations were underway for the beginning of native fish stocking season. “Several recovering lakes will receive Murray cod and golden perch this summer, so it’s an exciting time now the rain has finally come,” Mr Hurst said. For more about fish stocking visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing
Murray Cod Return To Charlegrark
by Bradley 14th Dec 2010
Murray cod have made a welcome return to West Wimmera’s Lake Charlegrark after an 11 year
absence thanks to some foresight and careful planning more than a decade ago.
The commercial harvest of other fish species from a nearby lake, salvaged as the region’s
wetlands dried out in 1999, have funded the Murray cods’ return tickets.
This week, 300 Murray cod were released in Lake Charlegrark, a popular recreational lake at
Minimay near the Victorian/South Australian border.
Fisheries Victoria Executive Director Anthony Hurst said the stocking was carried out by
Fisheries Officers from Department of Primary Industries (DPI) in conjunction with members of
the Wimmera Angling Association.
“Before the big dry, lakes in this area were popular fishing spots including nearby Lake
Booroopki, an iconic Murray cod recreational fishery.
“When Lake Booroopki began drying out in the late 1990s, local anglers agreed to let the lake be
harvested by a commercial fisherman who relocated any Murray cod and sold other fin-fish.
“Funds from this sale were placed in a trust fund, which is now being used to stock nearby Lake
Charlegrark.
“Than
ks to the forward thinking of the local angling community we have, after all these dry years,
finally been able to bring the icon species back to the region.
“The Murray cod that have been stocked are yearlings weighing 150-200 grams each and
measuring 15-20 cm.
“They are expected to reach breeding maturity within three to four years and the legal minimum
length size of 60 cm within four to six years, depending on lake conditions.
“Murray cod are an important species in this region and their return will enhance both the social
and economic fabric of the community,” Mr Hurst said.
Bass Fishing at Lake Glenbawn
by Bradley 14th Dec 2010
As a parent, I think it’s natural that we secretly hope that our children will share our passions. I think it is also one of the greatest privileges to watch them as they succeed in their endeavours.
So as a keen fisherman, you can imagine how proud I was to fish a Bass Tournament with my 10 year old Daughter, Anja, and to watch her land her first Australian Bass. The following are her own words as she recounts our weekend on the water together.
Last weekend my family and I drove to Lake Glenbawn. There was a Bass fishing tournament taking place and I went to fish with my Dad, Greg Seeto and his friend Josh Carpenter. I’ve fished in a tournament with Dad before, but I was very excited because this was my first Bass tournament and I am always asking Dad when I can fish another comp with him.
We entered the tournament as Team Daiwa. Each morning we got up at 5.00am to be on the water for the start at 6am. We fished for 8 hours on Saturday and for 5 hours on Sunday. Brad from Daiwa lent me a D-Shock and a Royalcast rod and reel for the weekend and I caught my first ever Bass on Saturday.
Josh kept telling me to cast as close to the edge as possible and wind my lure past the trees and weed in the water. I caught my fish on a spinnerbait in clear water, using the D-Shock rod and reel. Dad was so excited.
Listening at the weigh in, a lot of the people caught their Bass on spinnerbaits. I was so proud of myself because this was the first Bass I have ever caught and it was the second biggest out of the three we caught on the first day. I didn’t catch any fish on Sunday, but I still caught more than Dad. Luckily Josh caught two for us. So our total for the weekend was 5 out of a possible 8, not bad considering Dad and I don’t go Bass fishing very often.
I had a great but very tiring weekend. It was cool to try the 2 new rods and reels as well. The D-shock is like my other fishing rods that Dad taught me to use, but the Royalcast was easier to cast. I love to fish with Dad and can’t wait till we do another tournament together.
If you’re looking for a fishing combo for the kids, the D-shock and the Royalcast are great inexpensive options, depending on the level of experience of the children.
D-shock is a spin outfit with many features found in Daiwa’s high end reels, including ABS, Twistbuster and Digigear. The Royalcast reel on the other hand is a Spincast reel, perfect for kids. Available in a matched rod and reel combo it will assist with line management, reducing tangles and allowing for easy casting.
Greg Seeto
www.lureandfly.com
Vic Fishing Licenses Funding New Projects
by Bradley 13th Dec 2010
Revenue from the sale of recreational fishing licences continues to fund projects that
improve angling opportunities throughout Victoria, with a further 14 grants provided
through the Small Grants Program.
Half of the projects involve promoting recreational fishing to children through active
participation while others focus on research and minor infrastructure development.
Since its launch in March 2010, the Small Grants Program has funded 45 projects worth
more than $141,000. The program is open year round for small grants up to $5,000.
Executive Director of Fisheries Victoria, Anthony Hurst, said the 14 projects ranged from
junior clinics in regional centres to education products aimed at increasing awareness of
revised regulations.
The 14 projects are:
•
$5,000 to assess fish populations in the Anglesea River after recent fish deaths
•
$4,960 to conduct a ‘Junior Fishing Day’ event at Corinella Jetty
•
$4,560 to evaluate pipi stocks in the Cape Liptrap Coastal Park
•
$2,500 to co-fund 2,000 pipi buckets to promote the reduced bag limit at Cape
Liptrap Coastal Park
•
$4,500 to conduct a ‘Learn to Fish’ convention at Lakes Entrance
•
$3,950 to conduct a ‘Mates Day on the Bay’ fishing event
•
$3,664 to conduct six ‘fishing for diversity’ events at Barwon Heads
•
$3,400 to conduct a ‘Family Fishing Day’ at the 2011 St Kilda Festival
•
$2,965 to replace parts of the fishing platform at Deep Lake Recreation Reserve
•
$1,900 to conduct a ‘Student Fishing Day’ at the Curdies River
•
$1,975 to conduct a ‘Junior Fishing Clinic’ at Lake Boga
•
$1,530 to conduct a ‘Junior Angler Workshop’ at Kyabram
•
$1,215 to co-fund a pilot program to install fishing line disposal bins at 21
locations around Port Phillip Bay and
•
$1,425 to conduct a Family Surf Fishing tuition day at Venus Bay.
“These projects are terrific examples of ‘your fishing licence fees at work’ to improve
recreational angling opportunities and I encourage any organisation to consider applying
for a grant,” Mr Hurst said.
Since its inception in 2001, the Recreational Fishing Grants Program has funded over
345 projects worth more than $13.5 million. For more information or to apply for a Small
Grant, visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing/feesatwork
This Week on Hooked with Dave Butfield
by Bradley 12th Dec 2010
On this weeks show Dave’s back in Victoria fishing Port Phillip Bay for snapper. He hooks up with Matt from Real-Time Fishing charters. Dave has a unbelievable day fishing with snapper after snapper coming over the side. Also Dave shows you all the techniques in catching this magnificent fish on bait and soft plastics. Dave also shows you just how well the Daiwa tournament Masters Z interline rods work on snapper.
Hooked with Dave Butfield can be seen on the Aurora TV network. For more information go to www.hookedtv.com.au
New Horizons for Bass in Victoria
by Bradley 9th Dec 2010
Freshwater anglers are set to benefit in years to come thanks to an expanding Australian bass
stocking program that released over 100,000 fingerlings into seven Gippsland waters, including
three rivers for the first time.
Executive Director of Fisheries Victoria, Anthony Hurst, said recent advances in the genetic
knowledge of Victorian bass stocks confirmed Gippsland bass are essentially one stock rather
than several, as previously thought.
“This means broodstock bass from many Gippsland catchments within their natural range can
now be used when breeding fingerlings, which has increased broodstock collection opportunities
and consequently, fingerling production,” Mr Hurst said.
“Australian bass are a highly regarded sportfish and these stockings cement the Department’s
commitment to developing new fisheries for this species.
“Stocked bass fisheries in north-east New South Wales and south-east Queensland have proved
very successful so we are keen to ensure that Victorian anglers get the opportunity to enjoy bass
fishing.
“Lake Glenmaggie, near Heyfield, received 22,000 bass while Blue Rock Reservoir, near Moe,
received 15,000.
“These two lakes were stocked last summer with 30,000 and 22,000 bass respectively so we will
have consecutive year-classes in the water, which is ideal.
“The Macalister River below Lake Glenmaggie was stocked with 4,000 bass while Lake
Narracan received 20,000.
“New to the list of waters to receive Australian bass fingerlings are the Mitchell, Avon and
Thomson rivers, which contain low density populations of wild bass, some of which have been
used to breed the fingerlings being stocked.
“The Mitchell River received 15,000 bass, the Avon 15,000 and the Thomson 11,000 at Cowarr
Weir.
“These bass fingerlings are about 1 gram and 3cm long when released and are expected to take
several years to reach the legal minimum length of 27cm.”
The expanded bass stocking program has benefited from extensive broodstock collection by
researchers from the Arthur Rylah Institute (DSE) and is well supported by VRFish, Native Fish
Australia and local Gippsland anglers.
For more information about fish stocking visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing
Daiwa Bream Australian Open
by Bradley 7th Dec 2010
The Daiwa BREAM Australian Open has been renovated to provide an opportunity usually reserved for anglers fishing the final day of a BREAM Super Series or BREAM Grand Final event. This year, it’s an individual event. You versus fish on one of Australia’s greatest tournament arenas.
Featuring a 100% cash payback, fantastic prizes from Daiwa and the ability to earn BREAM Rankings points at the same rate as in the Grand Final, we’re sure that the best of the best breamers will be keen to test themselves. Man versus fish!
For more information go to – www.bream.com.au
New Certate Hi Gear released today!
by Bradley 6th Dec 2010
Daiwa is proud to release its brand new high speed versions of the most advanced spinning reel ever developed…the Certate Hi Gear Custom. for more information check it out in the reel section.
This Week on Hooked with Dave Butfield
by Bradley 6th Dec 2010
On this weeks show Dave heads to Victoria to a beautiful location called Sandy point. He catches up with Ryan from anything fishing charters and heads out to chase the famous VIC Whiting. Also on the show Dave shows you how to catch nippers on the sand flats using a yummy pump. It is a fantastic show with lots actions tips and techniques, that’s next time on hooked with Dave Butfield
Hooked with Dave Butfield can be seen on the Aurora TV network. For more information go to www.hookedtv.com.au
Saltiga LD large models just arrived!
by Bradley 3rd Dec 2010
The 35, 40 and 50 size model have just arrived and will be shipped to stores early next week.
Over the past decade Saltiga reels have built an enviable reputation as the strongest reels ever developed, reels that set a standard that can only be surpassed by developing new technology and introducing new models. In 2010 Daiwa introduces their finest ever developed lever drags, the Saltiga LD series.
With the durability and performance expected from a Saltiga the new LD series is built upon a precisely machined aluminium fame and sideplate for unmatched strength. This super strong frame supports a massive stainless steel helical cut gear system that produces optimum power and ultra smooth winding power. Match this with Daiwa’s finest ever lever drag system – UTD (ultimate tournament drag) and you have incredible fish stopping power and when the going gets tough the one touch gear shift allows you to change gears fluently for low down power or ultra fast hyper speed cranking.
Built to handle the toughest fish that swim the new Saltiga LD series is the ultimate in compact lever drags.
High Speed Exceler just arrived!
by Bradley 29th Nov 2010
Introducing for the first time a high speed Digigear drive spinning reel – the Exceler TSH-DA – with just one turn of the handle you will notice the ultra smooth blazing speed of the Exceler. Developed with all of Daiwa’s innovative features like Digigear, Airbail, Twistbuster etc this is one feature packed series and for a first it features a spare spool of a different size for a wider choice of lines classes.
This Week on Hooked with Dave Butfield
by Bradley 22nd Nov 2010
Part 2 .This week it back to the steel city of Whyalla chasing big reds. Whyalla holds some of the biggest snapper you’ll ever see. We also take a look at some new Daiwa gear in Dave’s Tackle Box.
If your a big snapper fan well this is one show not to be missed.Hooked with Dave Butfield can be seen on the Aurora TV network. For more information go …to www.hookedtv.com.au
This Week on Hooked with Dave Butfield
by Bradley 17th Nov 2010
It’s that time of the year when the big snapper come out to play off Whyalla. We catch up with Darren from Whyalla Fishing Adventures and use Daiwa’s latest rods and reels like the TMZ interline, Saltist Demon Blood, Seagate 3500 and Phantom J.
Hooked with Dave Butfield can be seen on the Aurora TV network. For more information go …to www.hookedtv.com.au
Shaun Clancy’s ABT Grand Final Story.
by Bradley 12th Nov 2010
Shaun Clancy has taken out the 2010 Daiwa BREAM Grand Final. In one of the closest BREAM Grand Finals in ABT’s history Clancy’s 15/15, 13.24kg overall tournament bag secured the title, and the accompanying ten thousand dollar first prize cheque. By producing heavier tournament limits for each day of the tournament, Clancy steadily moved from 19th to 10th and ultimately took out the title with the tournaments heaviest bag on day three with 5.58kg
“I couldn’t believe it when the scales finally stopped and I realised that I had secured the win. It was unexpected and a great honour to achieve this result against the best bream anglers in the country. One of my goals was to represent myself and all my sponsors by competing over the entire event. I am especially pleased at finishing strongly with a good bag. To achieve this result at Mallacoota, my home waters and a system I love to fish, is very special.”
On day one Clancy initially travelled to a shallow water bay in Bottom Lake. Fishing in 1-4 feet of water using an Ecogear SX40 Long Cast (Colours 369/307) Clancy found no fish. This prompted a move to rockwall structure in Top Lake. The first legal fish soon followed, before a move to deeper water in Bottom Lake provided the fish Clancy was ultimately searching for. Fishing in 4-5 meters of water Clancy used Ecogear ZX35 (colour 416) and VX35 and VX40 (colours 401/439/443/445) to fill his five fish limit and upgrade once.
“The key was the Humminbird Side Imaging feature. I was able to identify where patches of fish were concentrated and effectively target them”.
Day two saw Clancy return to his first two locations from day one, again for no luck. Heading back to his deep water spot in Bottom Lake, Clancy had his first legal fish with his first cast. With Clancy’s non-boater Tyler White contributing to the shared weight with an impressive 38cm fork length yellowfin bream, caught on an Ecogear VX35 (colour 443), Clancy ultimately filled his limit with one upgrade before heading to Top Lake.
Fishing stretches of bank identified in the prefish proved difficult as other competitors were already working the areas. Eventually finding his own patch, Clancy tried to find further fish with no luck.
“I had an edge bite plan and knew that my areas held good fish. As it turned out the edge bite didn’t really materialize during the first two days and when wind came through on day two the bite shut down”.
“The key with the wind and conditions on day two was being able to use my Humminbird sounder and the spot lock feature on my Minnkota electric motor, to find the fish and stay on them when they were active”.
“Also of important note was how a competitor, Spiro Spyropoulos, was catching fish. Spiro was nearby to where I was fishing at one point, and was boating far more fish than anybody else. I studied his action and emulated it to good effect. As such I need to thank him for the demonstration”.
“Come day three I was worried about the wind in the morning and its repercussions. I headed straight to the deep water spot from the previous two days, sounded fish and used spot lock, but wasn’t able to get any fish. I travelled into shallower water at the same location, again with no luck. I then travelled back to the bank area I had fished the previous two days with no luck to try and find fish”.
Using an Ecogear prototype lure, a sinking stickbait, rigged on 3lb Famell Spinning Fluro straight through, Clancy worked shallow rocky edges in search of fish. With the first legal hitting the boat shortly afterward, Clancy employed a drogue and his electric in tandem to combat the wind blowing across the bank.
“After hooking fish I would use the electric to motor into deeper water where I would fight the fish. I employed spot lock so after landing the fish I could retie the lure, check my hooks and return to the same place I hooked the fish in the shortest possible time. By employing this method my time was maximised, I could return to areas where the fish were active and I was confident that my setup was capable of handling the next potential capture. Spot lock was the key to making it all happen”.
“My key area was 200 meters of a 600 meter stretch of bank. By focusing my efforts on this active stretch I was able to catch my five fish limit by 9.30 am. The Blue Eye sunglasses I was using made the job a lot easier. After I got my limit I was able to still find two further upgrades with one 39cm fork length fish replacing a 30.5cm fork length model. In the end my fork lengths read as such; two 39cm fish, a 36.5cm, a 36cm and a final fish that weighed no less than 900grams. As it turned out I still had time to travel to Top Lake where I didn’t find any upgrades. As it turned out my day was finished by 10.30am”.
Clancy’s outfits consisted of a 701 Daiwa Tournament Master ZG MLFS rod teamed with a Daiwa Luvias 2000 reel spooled with 3lb Famell Spinning Fluro and a 701 Daiwa Luvias LFS rod teamed with a Daiwa Sol 2000 reel spooled with 4lb Daiwa TD Sensor braid and 4lb Yamatoyo Harris Fighter FC leader. “Heading to the weigh in I knew I had a good bag, over 5kg. It was always going to depend on what other competitors had caught. Being in 10th place heading out on the final day I was hoping for a top five finish. At the tubs I saw a couple of the other anglers had got their five fish. After I weighed in I secured the hot seat and just had to wait. I was 1.44kg behind the tournament leader Chris Wright after two days. I knew Chris had caught fish, but didn’t know the quality. In the end it was between me and Chris, I knew what he needed and when the scales went down I looked across and realised that I had won by 110 grams”.
“To take the win and have the quality of competitor such as Chris Wright there congratulating me is something I will never forget. Accepting a humble, genuine congratulations from a friend and one of the best bream anglers in the country, made the moment all the more special”.
“Obviously without the support of friends, family and my sponsors I would find it difficult to attend tournaments so a big thanks to all those people. A big thank you to my two non-boaters, Andrew Hamilton and Tyler White, for their efforts and contributions. To my close friends Wayne Friebe and Jarrod Healey, we worked as a team and shared prefish knowledge in order to help one another. Without their support I would have found the tournament far more arduous, so a big thanks”.
Warren Keelan joins up with Daiwa.
by Bradley 9th Nov 2010
After almost a decade writing and touring in the Australian original music scene, Warren decided to devote more time to his other passion – fishing. In 2007 he designed and built a successful online fishing community website called The Fishin Hub, which has since gone on to host numerous fishing expos and charity events, all in the name of bringing people together, sharing information and enjoying this great Aussie pastime.
Waz Keelan is a self taught web developer and runs his own business – Shellfish Creations, building many websites in the industry for clients including Boab Boat Hire and Daiwa’s own Alistair McGlashan. It was at this point where he decided to step it up a notch by delving into the world of fishing photography and journalism, and is now a regular contributor to many of this country’s leading fishing magazines including Modern Fishing, Freshwater Fishing, Sportfishing Australia and Fishing Monthly.
His passion for fishing and his ‘count me in’ attitude has seem him venture to many of Australia’s best locations, catching native fish in the New England River system, bluefin tuna off Bermagui and monster flathead on the NSW South Coast, not to mention chasing barramundi, mudcrabs, golden snapper and GT’s in Australia’s Top End.
After trying his hand in the comp scene, Waz and his boating partner qualified for the grand final of the 9 round Squidgie Southern Bream Series events – enjoying the pressure and the excitement of catching fish when it counts. Though competition aside, he’s more at home chasing many of the estuary’s finest species, and loves nothing more than capturing it on film and writing about it.
Warren has just released the first of his Blue Yonder Adventures DVD’s (Northern Territory and Cape Don) and is currently working on the second edition, which will feature a recent trip to Seisia in Cape York – catching GT’s, golden snapper and everything in between. He’s also been busy onscreen and is featured in Al McGlashan’s highly successful Strikezone TV series, targeting marlin, bluefin, kingfish albacore and a list of bread and butter species along the east coast of NSW.
“I am over the moon with the support from Daiwa and I can’t wait to put my new gear to the test”.
Shaun Clancy wins ABT Daiwa Bream Grand Final
by Bradley 7th Nov 2010
Congratulations to Shaun Clancy for winning the 2010 ABT Daiwa Bream Grand Final. Details on his win coming shortly!
New Shinobi Braid
by Bradley 2nd Nov 2010
Great news for those anglers on a tight budget is Daiwa’s latest release due out in stores soon is Shinobi Braid Super PE. This smooth, round profile braid is constructed using PE for improved casting distance and high abrasion resistance. Perfectly suited for spin and baitcaster reels, the Shinobi is a super high visibility yellow braid that is ideal for lure casting applications.
It also comes in a unique dispensing spool, this design allows you to apply tension to the spool when winding onto your reel.
For more information check out Shinobi Braid in our Line section.
This Week on Hooked with Dave Butfield
by Bradley 31st Oct 2010
It’s part 2 of our Darwin adventure. This time the crew move in close to Darwin and hunt down Black Jewfish on plastics and Golden Snapper. Once the sun sets the fishing continues with some night fishing, and just wait and see what the boys pull in.
Hooked with Dave Butfield can be seen on the Aurora TV network. For more information go …to www.hookedtv.com.au
This Week on Adventure Bound
by Bradley 19th Oct 2010
This week on Adventure Bound the crew are getting into the squid at Queenscliff in Victoria with the latest Daiwa Emeraldas rods, reels, line and jigs. In an action packed morning Lee Rayner the presenter and owner of the Fishing Fever store in Mordialloc Victoria will show you some incredible fishing. With plenty of Calamari to 2.3 kg, this will sure to be an excellent show. Pictured is Lee with a 2.3 kg calamari caught on an Emeraldas SZ-RV jig, Emeraldas interline and Emeraldas 2506 spinning reel. Adventure Bound can be seen on TVS, TVW and Channel 31 and check out their website at www.adventurebound.com.au
This Week on Hooked with Dave Butfield
by Bradley 19th Oct 2010
This week Dave catches up with Peter La Blank to fish the reefs off Pittwater. Dave shows you all the tips in fishing the local reefs for snapper. Also the boys drift for flathead using soft plastics and Daiwa Bay Rubbers.
Hooked with Dave Butfield can be seen on the Aurora TV network. For more information go …to www.hookedtv.com.au
Daiwa Hobie Opening Kayak Rounds
by Bradley 17th Oct 2010
The first two rounds of the Daiwa-Hobie Kayak BREAM Series provided quite a contrast in results for competitors. In Round 1 held at Mandurah WA, anglers reportedly fished in the toughest bite in the history with only eight fish hitting the scales in the opening round held during the Club Marine Mandurah Boat Show on 9/10th October. Round 2 at Ballina in NSW thankfully saw the bream come to the party.
Mandurah produced crystal clear water, blue skies and light winds and anglers battled hard to crack a consistent pattern, with only two fish hitting the scales on the opening day of competition.
Day two offered and delivered more with overcast and windy conditions delivering anglers a more consistent bite pattern and a much welcome glimpse of the quality fishing that Mandurah has to offer.
Mastering the challenging conditions and bite the best was Shane Owen (4/6, 2.59kg) of Perth with the 20 year old breamer capitalising on a small pattern he identified late on day one and turning it into a limit producing, tournament winning pattern on the final day. Owen was not alone with his insightful day two pattern with event runner up Brett Ozanne (1/6, 0.635kg) taking his unproductive day one approach, modifying it and turning it into a fish catcher on the final day.
Victory though belonged to Owen with the tournament young gun fishing the pontoons and jetties close to the start line on day one before changing tact and heading up stream to the canals in search of legal fish.
Fishing the pontoons, boats and jetties in the canals Owen keyed in on particular pieces of structures as the hot ones to target.
Using a cut-in-half 6″ Berkley Gulp Worm in natural colour rigged on a 1/28th oz, size 2H TT jighead, Owen had a presentation that proved to be just the ticket for clear water shut down breaming.
For Owen it was a dream start to his kayak career, with the WA breamer securing a Grand Final qualifying berth and adding his name to a growing list of event winners including current Daiwa-Hobie Angler of the Year Greg Lewis, Scott Lovig, Daniel Brown, and Jason Meech.
Owen added to his rewards for the weekend, picking up the $100 Boss Hog Prize thanks to 935 gram kicker fish.
For event runner up Brett Ozanne it was a great start to the two WA rounds in the series with the kayak fishing fan overjoyed to have qualified for the GF.
Rewarded for his patience and focus Ozanne landed the second biggest fish for the tournament and found himself $230 richer as a result. The lure that delivered him his Sunday pay day was a gold coloured 1/12th TT Ghostblade, with the retrieve comprised of a slow sink, and a short, quick twitch followed by another pause.
Placings: 1 Shane Owens; 2nd Brett Ozanne 1 0.635 1 0.635 $230+ Atomic & Berkley lure pack; 3rd Alan Durkin 1 0.495 1 0.495 $130+ Atomic & Berkley lure pack
Round 2 Ballina NSW
Ballina lived up to its reputation producing wet conditions and plenty of fish in the first east coast round of the Daiwa-Hobie BREAM Kayak Series, 9/10th October.
Constant rain, fresh in the river and howling winds tested anglers’ commitment with Brisbane breamer Will Lee (6/6, 2.69kg) rising to the challenge to secure his first BREAM Kayak win.
Fishing the rockwalls and jetties near the Ballina RSL on day one Lee used a soft plastic approach, fishing 80mm Squidgy Wrigglers (evil minnow) rigged on 1/16th TT jigheads, casting them tight to structure and fishing them with a lift n’ drop retrieve.
“It was standard plastic pattern, a lift and drop with the fish hitting the plastic as it wiggled back down”, explained Lee.
The approach delivering Lee his limit by 10am and a solid, still in the hunt 0.96kg limit.
“I only wish I’d landed the big fish that bricked me. If I got that I would have been a lot higher than 8th place at the end of the first day”, explained Lee.
With more freshwater in the river on the second day Lee went looking for clean water and headed straight to the southern rockwall at the mouth of the river. It was here that he struck paydirt. The approach he used to catch his fish was in vast contrast to the day before, with Lee swapping from soft to hard and fishing a combination of the deep Atomic Hardz Cranks (muddy prawn) and Daiwa Double Clutches (lazer ayu).
Throwing the Hardz up into the wash Lee used a slow rolling retrieve bumping the lure across the rocks and into the path of feeding bream. With his limit in the well Lee made a switch, cutting of the Hardz and tying on the Double Clutch.
“I wanted a big lure that would perhaps pull bigger fish”, explained Lee.
And that’s exactly what it did, with the Double Clutch producing two upgrades and upsizing his bag to a tournament winning one. While the clutch got him across the line it was the kicker fish (0.89kg) in his bag that came on a Hardz that value added his winnings as the event’s $100 Boss Hog.
Claiming his best result to date in the Daiwa-Hobie BREAM Kayak Series was event runner-up Jonathon Chen of Canberra. For the 21 year old environmental heath student it was a dream start to the season, with a shallow water crankbait his path to tournament success. Chen caught all his fish slow rolling brown stripe and orange coloured Jackall Chubbies. The remainder of the tackle he used to catch his fish included a Shimano Rack Raider rod, Shimano 1000 Sienna reel, 4lb Berkley Fireline and 6lb fluorocarbon leader.
Placings: 1st Will Lee 3 0.93 3 1.76 6 2.69 $600, $100 Boss Hog (0.89kg), $100 1st Pro + Ballina Lakeside Holiday Park Voucher; 2nd Jonathon Chen 3 1.09 3 1.14 6 2.23 $350; 3rd Nicholas Meredith 3 0.92 3 1.18 6 2.10 $190.
The next round of the 2010/2011 series is in Sydney on November 21 at Hen and Chicken Bay Visit www.bream.com.au for more information.
Daiwa Bream Grand Final Streamlined Live in 2010
by Bradley 15th Oct 2010
BREAM tournament fans who won’t be able to make it to the daily weigh-ins at Mallacoota for this year’s Daiwa BREAM Grand Final will not miss out on the action.
The daily weigh-ins from 2pm each day on the 5-7th November will be streamed live over the internet.
“We’ve streamlined the system at a couple of events this year and it’s all good to go for BREAM’s biggest event of the season,” said ABT Tournament Director, Simon Goldsmith.
The Daiwa BREAM Grand Final assembles 56 of the Australia’s best bream lure anglers and pairs them with 56 co-anglers who have qualified through the 14 event season. Come the Sunday, the field is cut to the top 20 boaters, who shoot it out for the title and a substantial cash prize.
Links to the live stream will be available on the front page of www.bream.com.au the week before the event. - ABT
The Seeto Brothers Join Up with Daiwa
by Bradley 14th Oct 2010
Daiwa Australia is glad to announce three new additions to our team. The Seeto brothers (Greg, Ian and Chris) have always devoted themselves to anything they have done. Fishing has always been a part of their lives, but it has recently become their all-consuming passion.
The first thing anyone will learn about the Seetos is that they are a family unit. Fishing to them is not an escape from family, it is something to bring the family together and seeing wives and kids at a tournament weigh-in is commonplace.
They are also so of the most approachable people on the tournament fishing scene – Chris once went missing from collecting his prizes on stage because he was too busy talking to a passer by about general fishing tactics.
Whilst they are very competitive on the water they also bring a very relaxed ambience and their jovial nature has led to industry people referring to them as the “Three Monkeys”.
Greg, the eldest and father of three, owns his own printing business with his wife and has fished the tournament trail for the last four years both as an individual and in a team and achieved many top ten finishes in that time.
Ian Is a husband and new father and has parlayed his qualifications as both an automotive mechanic and a marine mechanic into being a maintenance planner for Caltex. He has also been fishing the tournament circuit for four years with good success.
Chris, the youngest and affectionately known as “Boof”, is studying a Masters of Marketing at university. He also works in the family printing business with his parents. The same four years has also brought tournament success both individually and as Ian’s partner in team events.
Importantly, they’ve all progressed through the ABT’s non-boater system. They all fish as Pros now, but have an excellent understanding of the challenges of fishing from the back deck. Over the past year the three guys have donated 25% of their tournament cash winnings to the NSW Cancer Council.
Chat with the Seetos when you next see them at a tournament or out on the water – they’ll be able to show you through their range of Daiwa gear.
Wayne Friebe on TMZ-I Interline Rods
by Bradley 12th Oct 2010
After experiencing Daiwa’s last interline venture first hand, I was excited by the news that they were not only releasing these amazing fishing tools again, but they were improving them! My only concern was that they would not be able to cast the variety of light weights that we use in today’s modern breaming techniques. But after a lot of testing in different situations, I am happy to say that they perform exceptionally well.
From a technical point of view, the interline concept makes perfect sense. The fishability of the TMZ interlines is vastly improved by the reduced weight and incredibly smooth action and put simply they are a real joy to use. No guides on the rod blank creates a perfect working arc in the rod, allowing for incredibly smooth drag pressure under load, and for very accurate casting into structure. Equally, the reduced friction normally associated with line passing through guided rods allows for long distance casting in flats and open water situations.
Most tournament anglers have specific rods for certain situations, and I use my TMZ 762LFS extensively for making long searching casts over flats and open water. It is equally at home slow rolling crankbaits, hopping vibration baits in open water and searching shallow margins with topwaters and stick baits. I match this rod with a Steez 2508 with 4lb Daiwa Dyneema braid, or with a Luvias DAcustom 2000 with 3lb fluorocarbon, depending on the situation.
Other things about the TMZ make me smile too. They are a joy to store, and quickly take from my boats rod locker, with no guides and line to tangle with other outfits. They also look pretty awesome too, which is a big tick among a group of anglers that are becoming increasingly more savvy as each tournament year rolls by.
On my home waters in Port Phillip Bay, I have also found a great niche for my TMZ 762LFS, giving the local squid population a hard time. It gives me the power to make longer searching casts over reefs while fishing land based, and also allows for a more finesse approach with lighter line on shallow inshore reefs.
In short, the TMZ 762LFS is my favourite all round fishing rod, both for tournament and recreational fishing. They are exceptionally easy to thread and rig, with the help of the interline rigging wire, and are easily the smoothest actioned rod I have ever used.
Visit your local Daiwa dealer and have a cast, or ask one of the many Daiwa anglers at your next tournament. You’ll like what you see.
Mark Gercovich on Interline Rods for Trout Fishing
by Bradley 7th Oct 2010
I usually don’t use my best gear for river trout fishing. The very nature of local river trout fishing in SE Victoria, clambering around steep banks, dodging overhanging trees and keeping it in the car for quick impromptu sessions can be hard on your gear. Therefore my interline rods were being left behind on such trips, however soon I began realizing some significant benefits of interline rods were being sorely missed. There’s nothing worse than clambering down into position to fire off a cast into a likely spot, then having the lure go nowhere because the line catches around a guide. Because so often that cast is along the bank into a stiff wind at this time off year this was occurring frequently enough to becoming more than just annoying. In situations where you are only getting one cast at a fish you don’t want to blow that chance by a dud cast due to guide wrap.
The Interline also has proved beneficial this season in lake trolling situations. By running a lure way back you are not only keeping it out of the way of the other deeper trolling/downrigger rods but the lure is travelling well away from any disturbance made by the boat. Known in game fishing terms as the ‘shotgun’ lure, this lure is run often as far as 50-60m behind the boat. The shot gun lure has been producing well for us this season at not only just in the dawn dusk low light periods that usually lend themselves to flat lining, but throughout the day. Using a longer rod like the Daiwa Interline 7’6” model helps keep the line out of the way of the other rods in the set and assists in positive hook ups despite the amount of line out. The longer rod also helps when managing a large frisky trout around the boat side particularly if there are other lines and downriggers still in the water.
The shorter 6’6” model has proved to be a very compact and manageable down rigging rod. The usual annoying problem of line tangling round the guides or rod tip as you attempt to attach the line to the downrigger clip is eliminated by there being no guides. The lack of guides on the interline models also helps reduce tangles should another line come in contact with the rod when turning the boat. The line simply slides along the blank and back to its normal position once the boat has straightened.
Mark Gercovich
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