The mackerel-fishing season is now drawing to a close as the lower inshore temperatures push them back up north.
There have still been a few about, however nowhere near the amount that we have seen throughout what can only be described as a fantastic season.
Mid-sized snapper are showing, and we should see the larger knobbies in greater numbers over the next two months following the drop in temperature.
Kingfish and amberjack up to 12kg have been scoffing live baits on the reefs east of Cape Byron, with much larger ones lurking that just can’t be stopped. If you want to chase these brutes you had best make sure your gear is up to the challenge!
Dolphin fish (Mahi Mahi) have been prolific offshore and are a very spirited adversary on light tackle. Pictured below is Austin Davis with a lovely specimen.
The rocks and beaches have been producing some quality dart and bream, and some larger tailor are lurking around after dark.
Whiting have also been taken on the shire’s northern beaches using worms as bait.
The sea mullet are a plenty at the moment and these are the best baits to land a large mulloway from the beach; the only issue is that unless your bait is live, the hungry whaler sharks are getting to it first.
The annual migration of humpback whales is just starting now and we saw our first mother and calf heading north over the weekend.
Give it a couple of weeks and we should have them in great numbers, so keep your eyes open for these magnificent creatures.
~ Doug Benjamin, Byron Bay Charters 0400 946 066
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The mackerel-fishing season is now drawing to a close as the lower inshore temperatures push them back up north.
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