Catch the Phenomenal Winter Salmon Run!
Finding these fish currently is relatively easy with good numbers holding towards the entrances of our local estuaries. These fish are predominantly dusk and dawn feeders but are currently getting caught throughout the day with consistent catches coming on most tide phases. Salmon are generally predatory feeders, where a majority of their diet is small baitfish.
Normally the saying “match the hatch” is an effective rule of thumb to follow when targeting these fish. Fortunately, in the modern world of fishing there are endless options of artificial and fresh baits that can be used, but below are a few of our shop favourites.
The Takumi hardbody is an extremely effective lure for targeting Australian Salmon. These lures respond well to a variety of retrieval techniques although we have found the “burn and churn” method extremely effective. However, these lures are extremely versatile and double over as a great trolling lure, working at speeds up to 15 Knots.
If you’re after a more cost effect lure that still produces plenty of fish, the Halco Twisty would have to be our next lure of choice. These lures are a predominant fish-catching machine that proves to be extremely effective on salmon. These lures are best worked with a constant steady retrieve with a few twitches thrown in to imitate a darting baitfish.
Chasing these fish on a fly is another great option that provides great sport while also being extremely effective. Currently, there couldn’t be a better time to get the fly gear out, with the fish congregating easily within casting distance. Although there are a plethora of different flies you can use, one of our shop favourites is a Manic Tackle Bucktail 1/0, Clouser.
When deciding what weight lure to use we recommend matching your lure choice against the casting weight recommended on your rod. This will ensure you get the most distance with your casts without compromising your gear.
Along with these artificial baits, a well-presented fresh bait is always an effective method. Bluebait, whitebait and pilchards are among some of the more common baits that can be used. These baits tend to typically be on the softer side so to combat this issue, we recommend using some bait thread that can be wrapped around the bait which aids in keeping it on the hook.
We normally recommend rigging these on a paternoster rig, but a running sinker rig will also work. When it comes to what hooks to use, we find this can vary from person to person although if you are looking to release your fish, we tend to recommend a good circle hook. Ganged-styled hooks are also a good choice and can be effective in combating the notorious hook throw that Australian Salmon are known for. The downside of these hooks is they tend to be more damaging to the fish, so we only recommend using this style of a hook when you’re not looking to release your fish.
Next is finding the right rod and reel to get you out and about. Following the general rule of thumb, a rod roughly 7ft or longer with a line class rating around 3-7kg or 4-8kg. This will match up well with a spin reel around the 3000 or 4000 sizes spooled with either 15 or 20-lb braid. Although this can vary greatly depending on angler knowledge and what style of fishing you're looking to do. Don’t hesitate to give the shop a call or come in to discuss the best combo to meet your desired needs.
Lastly one of the more controversial topics around Australian salmon, are they good table fish? Although these fish can be an acquired taste, if handle and treated correctly these fish can be very underrated. Bleeding, brain spiking and icing these fish immediately when landed will make a huge difference in the taste and overall integrity of your fillet. Like any fish, eating your catch fresh will ensure you get the most out of it. My personal favourite is eating my salmon crumbed in a panko and lemon-pepper mixture, cook over medium to low heat. Cooking on a lower heat ensures all the fat doesn’t leech out of your fillets and keeps them moist and favourable. If you still can’t comprehend eating Salmon, they can still be a great fresh bait option for your outer reef fishing or a perfect bait in your crab traps. Salmon are also extremely hearty and if handled with a little bit of care will release perfectly well.
