The wait is over, and the anticipation is building as anglers prepare to tap into the annual sea mullet run, which is expected to bring a surge of these prized fish to our shores. **A Tradition of Beach Netting**
This age-old practice of beach netting for sea mullet continues to connect anglers to the rhythms of the coast, with commercial fishers carrying on generations of family expertise. As the tide begins to change, the beaches start to come alive with the sound of nets being pulled across the sand, and the excitement of the catch begins to build. While some larger schools still inhabit the rivers, they don’t yet appear ready to spawn, and anglers are still waiting for the signal to start their nets. However, the beaches are already showing signs of activity, with tailor numbers increasing along most beaches, leading to some great catches. **Mixed Bag of Fortunes**
The Hastings River this week offered a mixed bag of fortunes, with anglers finding success using weed as bait around the local wharfs and the breakwalls near the river mouth. Luderick were a standout, with anglers finding excellent catches using weed as bait. Meanwhile, beach fishing also provided encouraging signs, with tailor numbers increasing along most beaches, leading to some great catches. Bream fishing remains strong, with impressive specimens over a kilogram reported from Lighthouse and North Shore beaches. **A Rewarding Option for Rock Fishers**
Rock anglers have reason to be pleased, as drummer continue to be caught in good numbers around Point Plomer and the Lighthouse, suggesting the best is yet to come. Luderick also offered a rewarding option for those fishing from the rocks, with some anglers finding success using flies and lures. **Offshore Opportunities**
Offshore, mackerel are providing plenty of action and with decent catches reported just off the coast. Deep sea fishing yielded success too, with snapper present in reasonable numbers around 40 metres. Further out, a lucky few landed prized pearl perch and kingfish. **Increasing Luderick Numbers**
In the Camden Haven River, luderick numbers have shown a noticeable increase, with anglers encouraged to experiment with greenweed, flies, and cabbage to discover the most effective bait on any given day. Flathead remain active throughout the system, making whitebait or lures a good choice for a cast. **School Mulloway**
Off the beaches, school mulloway are appearing between Dunbogan and Diamond Head, and anglers are reminded to handle these often undersized fish with care and release them responsibly. **Adaptable Rock Fishers**
Rock fishers targeting the turbulent washes are finding good numbers of bream, luderick, and particularly drummer, a welcome sign for this time of year. Locating sand-free rock pools is key to success, but these spots can shift daily depending on swell conditions, requiring anglers to be adaptable. **Offshore Opportunities**
In the Macleay River region, those venturing further offshore for a deep drop may be rewarded with quality kingfish and bar cod. Luderick numbers are also on the rise, with the breakwalls offering promising fishing locations. **Getting Involved**
As the sea mullet run gets underway, anglers are encouraged to get involved and share their experiences with the community. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s never been a better time to grab your gear and hit the beach.
| Location | Fishing Opportunities |
|---|---|
| Hastings River | Luderick, weed, bream |
| Beach | Tailor, mackerel, snapper, pearl perch, kingfish |
| Rock | Drummer, luderick, bream, flathead |
| Offshore | Mackerel, snapper, pearl perch, kingfish, bar cod |
**Definitions**
*
: A prized fish species known for its excellent fighting ability and strong flavor. *
: A species of fish that is prized for its strong fighting ability and excellent flavor. *
: A species of fish that is known for its distinctive drumming sound when it jumps out of the water. *
: A species of fish that is prized for its excellent flavor and fighting ability. *
: A species of fish that is known for its strong fighting ability and excellent flavor. By following these tips and getting out on the water, anglers can tap into the sea mullet run and experience the thrill of catching these prized fish. So why not grab your gear and get involved – the wait is over, and the anticipation is building!
