Lobsters the big story as the year winds down

Here we are again nearing the end of what has been a busy year in fishing. What a great state we live in, with fishing for trout being a favourite pastime amongst many while those who chase tuna or King George whiting in the saltwater have it pretty good as well.

The big news lately has been that lobster fishers are reaping the rewards.

Most areas are open and reports are indicating good captures among potters and divers alike.

Of course, pressure has been applied to the afore mentioned fisheries and that means that they must be sustainable.

I’m not going to ramble on about what we as fishers need to do, as most genuine anglers have a passion for angling and want to see it continue into the future.

To be able to do this, I think the “only take what you need for a feed” rule should apply, along with the mantra “let the little ones grow”.

Another one which is a favourite of mine is to “think of the link, the sea and your sink”.

Essentialy that means to make sure you do your bit in ensuring there will be fish there for next year.

With this year nearly run and done, it’s time for me to slow down a bit and I’m sure the grandkids and fishing will put paid to any recreational time I can find.

The column will continue as it has for many years over the Christmas New Year break and I welcome contributions — as we have always done — in the form of input and pictures.

It’s a chance for fishers and families to show off what they have caught, on what and hopefully where.

If a picture is published it doesn’t mean we are all going to rush to that spot, which I find amusing, as once the fish has been taken from the “hot spot” it’s gone forever — and sure, a bigger model might move into the vacant hole or cave or whatever, but it’s not likely to happen straight away.

I’ll be out and about with the camera trying for great shots, of which I have many that can be added to a historical collection of fishers and their captures.

It amazes me how I have shots from 40 years ago and the kids in some of the pictures, now have kids themselves and on it goes.

I often get adults coming up to me and saying they can remember the fishing education they received either at school or at the clinics which we used to run around the state.

So too, the people I met at the very first Agfest displays from Sea Fisheries.

Amazing too, how they carry the lessons learned forward to their generation and the upcoming. Let’s hope it continues.

Where to have a fish

GOOD options for the coming week as water temps rise are tidal flats at Cremorne where salmon can be caught or the kids can chase crabs whilst Dad has a fish.

The many beaches along the east coast hold good fish, especially out past the surf line, so a surf rod may be a good option for a Christmas present to oneself.

Please, be safe on the water and make sure the kids have their vest on, if on a wharf or in a boat.