Easter is synonymous with angling whether it's due to religious beliefs, the fact it is a four-day weekend with still warmish weather, or because the fishing is generally pretty good at this time of year.
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This year, we have the added bonus of Anzac day falling in the school holidays, which usually signifies the start of some pretty hot fishing over the next couple of months. And with good weather forecast, no doubt there will be plenty of people wetting a line on all the Mid-North Coast waterways.
On the beaches, the recent southerlies have cleaned the red weed up a little, which is pleasing, although you may still have to hunt around on occasions for clean water. North Beach has been quite consistent for tailor, as has South Beach at Dunbogan. Pilchards, whitebait and lures have all been successful.
Lighthouse has been producing a few nice whiting and bream, with worms and pipis the go. Mulloway have again been a little quiet although the tides in the latter part of this week, and over the weekend, are close to optimum.
In the estuary, mullet numbers have begun to swell in the lower reaches suggesting the annual migration is not far off. This will not go unnoticed by the mulloway.
While the current full moon phase will see bream a little tentative after dark, we are seeing a gradual improvement throughout the lower reaches. Look for this trend to continue over the coming weeks.
Blackfish numbers have been above average, as too their condition, with some nice fish still being taken from both breakwalls.
Up river, flathead have been quite good around Hibbard, while Limeburners and Blackmans Point are both worth a look for whiting.
Off the rocks, tailor remain terrific with the Lighthouse, Point Plomer and ledges further north all worth investigating. Bonito are also around in good numbers with small metals the lure of choice. Bream numbers are on the improve and should be well worth targeting over the coming weeks. Blackfish numbers have been reasonable, with the area around Shelley Beach and Miners well worth a look.
There's still plenty of longtail tuna about for the land-based game enthusiasts with those putting in the time consistently snaring fish.
Hat Head and Point Perpendicular as usual remain the most consistent locations, but most exposed north-facing ledges are viable options for those seeking some solitude.
Offshore, Geoff from Fish Port Macquarie Charters reports mahi mahi are still around the FAD, although the lack of current of late has seen the action slow considerably. Look for this to pick up once again with the next push of warm water down the coast.
On the reefs, reasonable numbers of pearl perch and snapper have been about, with some nice reds to over 5kg close in off Lighthouse beach. On the pelagic front, Barries Bay is still worth a look for mackerel, cobia and longtail tuna, as it is close-in off Port or Lighthouse.
Enjoy the Easter break, especially if you have the chance to make a catch. Until next time, tight lines and good fishing to all.
