Fishing Reports 2008 / 2007 / 2006 / 2005

“ON THE HOOK”   With Ross Hunter…20/10/08

YELLOWFIN ARE STILL AROUND AND WE HOOK UP OUR SECOND MARLIN ON BROADBILL

We fished last weekend and were greeted with some beautiful 21 degree water out wide.
Both Billfisher and Broadbill decided to cube for tuna and whilst the water looked good there was little action for an hour or two. Glenn’s group decided to go back to trolling the vast schools of striped tuna and caught heaps.

We persevered with our team headed up by Matt Oaten and it wasn’t long before the big Shimano was screaming and we had our first strike, it was one of two that we caught. The angler worked the big fish and after 25 minutes of grunting and groaning a 30 plus kilo tuna joined the boat. It was Matt’s first and he could not believe the fish’s power. See photos

Don Friedman caught this tuna on Billfisher	Don Friedman's crew had an enjoyable but not so fishy day on Billfisher last week
David Widjaja's crew fished well for this catch	David Widjaja's crew had a great day on Billfisher
Hooked up and fighting Another yellowfin bolts down deep	I know He's down there somewhere
Smiles on dials on Billfisher	Wow I did not know how hard they fought
The girls kick back coming across the bay	Matt Otten's crew scored well with this one on Broadbill

We also took out some USA marines over the weekend. The lads were a great bunch and were on R and R off the big aircraft carrier... We hooked up a marlin on a lure only to have fought it for a while, but the hook came out on one of its wild jumps, much to our diss appointment.

The tuna over the past few trips have been smaller and whilst we would like to catch 30 plus kilo fish all the time, the 10 to 15kg gems are great fun.

DAVID WIDJAJA’S CREW SCORE WELL ON BILLFISHER

 David Widjaja’s group found that out when they fished on Billfisher last week, they ended up with a great haul of yellowfin and albacore for their charter and have not stopped talking about it and eating the catch.

The Georges River is still fishing very well for blackfish Stewart Case and “The Blackfish Guru” Norm Jefferies have both reported great catches through the week.
Flathead too have been caught in Botany Bay, both Towra and Brighton Le Sands have produced good fish on squidgys.

Around Botany Heads salmon have been prevalent and further offshore the 12 mile has been consistent for kings, but a word of caution most are undersize so please observe the limit of 65cm...Big fines apply if you get caught.
Tips for the next fortnight definitely tuna out wide and the onset of some great striped marlin fishing... Also good black fishing in the Georges River.

PT STEPHENS ’09  COME AND JOIN US.

Having fished these amazing waters for over three decades I am convinced that this magnificently picturesque place is one of the most productive marlin fisheries in the world and for us lucky New south Welshman, it's right on our door step.

Imagine catches of 16,18 and 21 marlin in a day or 248 for a season that is world class by anyone's standards.

The average size of a Pt Stephens striped is around 80kg and these double figure, per day numbers are achieved by the charter fleet every season from January to late April.
Each summer season there are many charter boats that travel from as far as Cairns to the north and Batemans Bay to the south to join us locals at Pt Stephens.

Captain Glenn Hunter slews Billfisher after a big striped at Pt Stephens	A common sight Hooked up and fighting Another big striped beindg played
A common sight on our boats	Big dollies like this are common
A superb striped at Pt stephens	Big Dollies a common catch at Pt Stephens
Come and Join Glenn and myself for that trip of a lifetime at Pt Stephens	Another marlin released at the Port
The 2004 Interclub winners tag and release marlin on Broadbill	The view from the Shack You can catch whiting and bream at your doorstep
The magnificent view from the Fishermans shack	God's Country Come and join us

These boats target the abundant stocks of blacks; blues (and the most predominant marlin) the striped on all types of tackle, be-it fly-fishing, spear fishing or conventional tackle.

Us Captains love the place, not just for its beauty in landscape but also for its camaraderie.
The charter industry works well in this Port, there is a lot of harmony between skippers and that always works well, no petty jealousies, just a bunch of likeminded skippers wanting to catch fish,

Many of us not seeing each other for most of the year then catching up for a couple of months doin' what we do best, catching marlin.

In the long run "Happy customers, smiles on dials …that’s what I'm talkin' about". And we get that from catching marlin and we work together to achieve that end result for our clients

I recall Jim Dalling calling me up and saying from his vantage point on the tower of "Reel Chase" "Come over here Roscoe there's a bunch of stripes on a bait ball'.
We caught several fish in a couple of hours, both of us going backwards chasing a hot fish, most of the time.

However it is not just the brilliant marlin fishing, it is also the superb scenery of the place that I never get sick of looking at, it really is a breathtaking port to leave from and then come home to after a busy days fishing.

The entrance to the port is made up of Headlands and Islands that are remnants of an extinct volcano from a long forgotten dinosaur era.

The highest mountain to the south Tomaree forms an embattlement that protects the mariners from bad weather, making the port a most safe passage for our boats.

To the north Yaccabah with its picturesque, almost vertical mountainous slopes and giant wind eroded gorges that the sea pounds into with great force, sending plumes of spray forever skyward.

Always a most spectacular sight as we steam to the bait grounds at first light.
The colours of these beautiful steeped cliffs changes constantly with sunlight, depending on the light of the day.

Then there's Cabbage Tree Island with its western rain forest and gorges full of cabbage trees, home of the tiny Gould's Petrel and a resident family of white-bellied sea eagles.
To the south Little Island and Boondelbah Island they all form the breathtaking oceanic entrance to the Port.

Over the years there have been many fishing milestones, Broadbill's twenty-one marlin in a day in February 2005.

A day when a bait ball was found with an estimated 80 striped marlin working it up all day.
All we had to do was to back up to it, throw two live baits in and immediately hook up a double on stripes.

There also has been many World and Australian records on all kinds of tackle all caught from this world-class fishery.

The area constantly produces record catches of stripes and juvenile black marlin (fish to 150kg) and some "honker" blue marlin up to 350kg.

But there are other species that are targeted and they are mahis, yellowfin and cobia and they come in XXXOS size as well.

Pt. Stephens hosts the largest tournament in the Southern Hemisphere 'The NSW Interclub" 250 boats turn up and fill the port in February each year. To compete in this extremely well organised event. Is a busy and most exciting affair.

Local boat "Born Free" won in '07 with Captain Tim Dean at the helm.
It is a most spectacular sight when all these boats from 6 metre trailer boats to 50metre fuel guzzling battlewagons gather together to fish these waters.

If it is a fisherman's holiday you want and you also wouldn't mind coming back with "Your arms dangling like those of an ape from the stretching they'll get during your stay" then visit us at

 We are taking bookings for PT STEPHENS ’09 If you would like to join us as a group of six or as an individual, we have some days left.

These fishing grounds are simply the best marlin grounds in the world, add to this giant mahis, kingfish and wahoo and this is a fishing holiday of a lifetime.

COSTS ON A SHARE BASIS

At $1180.00  per head including 4 nights accommodation is more than affordable.
 If you are interested ring 9534 2378 for more info or visit look in “Fishing Adventure packages” on this site

As we are getting fairly well booked please do not hesitate to ring and book. You will not be disappointed.
9534 2378

“ON THE HOOK” with Captains Ross and Glenn Hunter

A WILD AND VERY FISHY…OCTOBER LONG WEEKEND

INTEGRA WATER TOURNAMENT

Last week we hosted local Gymea company Integra Water’s fishing competition. This involved nine vessels and over 60 anglers. We assist in organising the event with CEO Matt Dearsley and James Mc Mahon the lads invite many of their VIP customers and suppliers to a days fishing on Mother Ocean. The weather was perfect but the fishing for some a little slow, with leather jackets in plague proportions.

The jackets when they are thick beat all other contenders to the bait and it does make it tough on catches of quality fish like snapper. These vultures seem to have increased in numbers over the last 5 years and there is no end in sight.

Now that's a big jacket caught by Wayne. We caught heaps of them. Matt Deasley look on	Paul catched a nice mowie
The Emu holds up Amanda's first ever kingfish It was released	The smallest fish but not for long Paul caught some beauties
The Integra team always great fun to fish with	The Emu holds up Amanada's kingy The fish was released

But despite this there were some excellent fish caught and all boats performed well in the slow fishing conditions. All boats bottom fished and caught every thing from jackets, mowies, pig fish, a few kings and flathead.

The Sea Runner won with 40 mowies and assorted other reef species The Sheerwater too caught a heap. Broadbill got biggest fish with Wayne’s 54 cm mosaic jacket, believe it or not.

This is the second year of the get together and all skippers and crew look forward to it every year. The presentation afternoon was a lot of fun at The St. George Motor Boat club…….A great day was had by all and we look forward to INTEGRA 2009

BROADBILL CATCHES FIRST MARLIN OF THE SEASON OFF SYDNEY

We predicted it last update and The crystal ball was right. We had a blinder of along weekend catching loads of yellow fin and albacore But the highlight by far was when The Bloodshot Lumo sprocket was devoured by a 70 kilo striped marlin on the way out in 75fathoms on Saturday.

We saw the superb marlin come up and chase the lure and then attacked with great vengeance The hook up was instant and No3 was on strike. It Was Joe Di Tommaso’s strike and he leapt to the rod as the big fish tore a couple of hundred metres off the big Shimano reel in a matter of seconds.

Broadbill's deckie The Emu carefully traces Joe Di Tommaso's first marlin. The 70kg was released.	Everyone on the boat gasped in awe at the sight of the fishes jumps
The first marlin off Sydney How Good is that The flags are up and we're happy	The first marlin of the season being played by Joe Di Tommaso on Broadbill
What a great sight Broadbill's first marlin of the season

Broadbill’s deckie The Emu cleared the gear as I backed Broadbill up after the fish that by now had 250 metres of 24kg line off the reel.

It was Joe’s first marlin and he settled into the fight like an expert. After 25 minutes the marlin was released to swim the Tasman Sea again maybe a little wiser next time.

First marlin of the season is a most prestigious feat and it really does mean a lot to myself and our crew, not forgetting our angler, congratulation Joe.

THE YELLOWFIN AND ALBACORE ARE EVERY WHERE
ITS’ ON AGAIN A YELLOWFIN FRENZY

The long weekend has been unforgettable for the anglers on our vessels. Friday Saturday, Sunday and Monday both Broadbill and Billfisher’s crew have caught great catches of yellowfin and albacore then add to this the first marlin of the season and you would have to say that the fishing has been “red hot”.

We knew before we ventured out that the fish would be roaming in the 20.5 degree currents It has been a month or so since we have seen good tuna fishing and it is so good to see them back.

A most respectable catch of albies and yellowfin	Billfisher loaded up on tuna on Saturday for his crew
Fresh from the old dart.. Simon is straight into our Ozzie tuna	Love is in the air Johnny Boo and Helga cuddle up
Joe Di Tommaso did not rest on his first marlin He wanted tuna as well	John Boo with a couple of gems
Look what I caught Mum	Girls,, too love fishing Natalie holds up her catch Happy... You bet
Regular Broadbill angler John Vassala with a couple of tuna	Rob Marich with his catch He had agreat day on Broadbill
The Emu with a couple of fat alberts big albacore	yellowfin and albies Sundaylong weekend oct 005
yellowfin and albies Sundaylong weekend oct 006

On Broady on Saturday Steve Fox’s crew (some of the guys were from England) caught heaps as did Peter Marich, Maroubra’s legends and regular fisherman on our boats John Boo Cartlidge andThe Human Winch Anthony Chaffey... Lady Angler Natalie and husband all caught heaps of tuna and albies.

Billfisher’s group headed up by Jose Tang also scored well on yellowfin and albies all fish were caught around the 200 fathom line some cubed, some trolled certainly wild fishing out there at present. If you want to experience this champagne fishing do not hesitate to book as they can go as quickly as they came.

To book ring 95342378

PT STEPHENS ’09  COME AND JOIN US.

Having fished these amazing waters for over three decades I am convinced that this magnificently picturesque place is one of the most productive marlin fisheries in the world and for us lucky New south Welshman, it's right on our door step.

Imagine catches of 16,18 and 21 marlin in a day or 248 for a season that is world class by anyone's standards.

The average size of a Pt Stephens striped is around 80kg and these double figure, per day numbers are achieved by the charter fleet every season from January to late April.

Each summer season there are many charter boats that travel from as far as Cairns to the north and Batemans Bay to the south to join us locals at Pt Stephens.

A common sight on our boats marlin tag flags up the rigger	Big dollies like this are common
A familiar sight Hooked up and fighting another marlin at Pt Stephens	Broadbill with port record 21 stripes in a day
God's Country Come and join us in '09	We released over two hundred last season between us
The view from the Shack You can catch whiting and bream at your doorstep	Where our anglers stay The Fisherman's shack
Heading out for another exciting days fishing from Pt Stephens	The magnificent view from the Fishermans shack
I love every minute of these fish Our first for the season One of the many we will catch here at Port Stephens	Yaccabah and Boondlebah..Pt Stephens

These boats target the abundant stocks of blacks; blues (and the most predominant marlin) the striped on all types of tackle, be-it fly-fishing, spear fishing or conventional tackle.

Us Captains love the place, not just for its beauty in landscape but also for its camaraderie.
The charter industry works well in this Port, there is a lot of harmony between skippers and that always works well, no petty jealousies, just a bunch of likeminded skippers wanting to catch fish,

Many of us not seeing each other for most of the year then catching up for a couple of months doin' what we do best, catching marlin.

In the long run "Happy customers, smiles on dials …that’s what I'm talkin' about". And we get that from catching marlin and we work together to achieve that end result for our clients

I recall Jim Dalling calling me up and saying from his vantage point on the tower of "Reel Chase" "Come over here Roscoe there's a bunch of stripes on a bait ball'.
We caught several fish in a couple of hours, both of us going backwards chasing a hot fish, most of the time.

However it is not just the brilliant marlin fishing, it is also the superb scenery of the place that I never get sick of looking at, it really is a breathtaking port to leave from and then come home to after a busy days fishing.

The entrance to the port is made up of Headlands and Islands that are remnants of an extinct volcano from a long forgotten dinosaur era.

The highest mountain to the south Tomaree forms an embattlement that protects the mariners from bad weather, making the port a most safe passage for our boat.

To the north Yaccabah with its picturesque, almost vertical mountainous slopes and giant wind eroded gorges that the sea pounds into with great force, sending plumes of spray forever skyward.

Always a most spectacular sight as we steam to the bait grounds at first light.
The colours of these beautiful steeped cliffs changes constantly with sunlight, depending on the light of the day.

Then there's Cabbage Tree Island with its western rain forest and gorges full of cabbage trees, home of the tiny Gould's Petrel and a resident family of white-bellied sea eagles.

To the south Little Island and Boondelbah Island they all form the breathtaking oceanic entrance to the Port.

Over the years there have been many fishing milestones, Broadbill's twenty-one marlin in a day in February 2005.

A day when a bait ball was found with an estimated 80 striped marlin working it up all day.
All we had to do was to back up to it, throw two live baits in and immediately hook up a double on stripes.

There also has been many World and Australian records on all kinds of tackle all caught from this world-class fishery.

The area constantly produces record catches of stripes and juvenile black marlin (fish to 150kg) and some "honker" blue marlin up to 350kg.

But there are other species that are targeted and they are mahis, yellowfin and cobia and they come in XXXOS size as well.

Pt. Stephens hosts the largest tournament in the Southern Hemisphere 'The NSW Interclub" 250 boats turn up and fill the port in February each year. To compete in this extremely well organised event. Is a busy and most exciting affair.

Local boat "Born Free" won in '07 with Captain Tim Dean at the helm.
It is a most spectacular sight when all these boats from 6 metre trailer boats to 50metre fuel guzzling battlewagons gather together to fish these waters.

If it is a fisherman's holiday you want and you also wouldn't mind coming back with "Your arms dangling like those of an ape from the stretching they'll get during your stay" then visit us at

We are taking bookings for PT STEPHENS ’09 If you would like to join us as a group of six or as an individual, we have some days left.

These fishing grounds are simply the best marlin grounds in the world, add to this giant mahis, kingfish and wahoo and this is a fishing holiday of a lifetime.

COSTS ON A SHARE BASIS

At $1180.00  per head including 4 nights accommodation is more than affordable.
If you are interested ring 9534 2378 for more info or visit look in “Fishing Adventure packages” on this site.

As we are getting fairly well booked please do not hesitate to ring and book. You will not be disappointed.
9534 2378

‘ON THE HOOK” With Ross and Glenn Hunter…late September Report

It seems that every weekend the winds have blown at close to gale force making us fisherman wonder when we will ever go fishing again.

Glenn Hunter on his boat Billfisher and myself on Broadbill have journeyed to the southern grounds off Bellambi a couple of times and we have caught snapper each trip, some better than others.

The snapper have been on the smallish side for this area ( up to 38 cm) they have been mixed with blue morwong, pig fish and then on the way home a good catch of blue spot flathead have been caught. The area can produce snapper to 8 and 9 kg but they have been late this season and whilst it has always been reasonably productive to make the effort to travel the 20 mile to go there, the big reds have not shown up.

Leatherjackets have been everywhere	Mike and Patto we worked hard all day for our catch
We had a most peacefull day at The Hump.. A good crew, good weather and good catch. Paul with a Mowie	Patto with a couple of the catch They were'nt big but perfect table size
ANTHONYS SNAPPER	Ross and Emu and crew at the Hump
This is how it was every trip last season	Mixed bags of reef fish have been the go lately

Last weekend we fished to the north and caught 50 fish the majority being big leather jackets not mosaic and china men.

We also caught bluespot flathead and blue morwong adding a little colour to the box.
The jackets seem to have come inshore in plague proportions and really are a nuisance when you want to target snapper. They can end up schooling up under the boat and at that point no bait will ever make the bottom before getting nailed by the jackets. They do eat well but we really do get sick of them after a few hours.

YELLOWFIN TUNA ARE BACK

Out on the wide grounds yellowfin tuna are back, however the biggest problem is braving the wild winds to get to them. We will not risk that scenario on our boats, no yellowfin is worth braving wild and dangerous weather.  The fish are very wide but there’s plenty of them up to 45kg
If you would like a trip on these gut busters ring 95342378 to book. We do gift vouchers for individuals.

The Georges River is fishing reasonably well for blackfish.  Fishraider’s Stewart Case caught half a dozen last week as did The Guru Norm Jefferys.
 Next week after the full moon will be worth a go at all popular spots.
Kingfish have gone quite at The Peak they could return eventually ..Good catches of flathead have been reported off the Maroubra grounds.

FISHING ON BROADBILL WITH ET AND TETSUYA

Had a great day today fishing with ET and famous Japanese chef Tetsuya.
His restaurant in Sydney is very popular and recognised world wide as one of the best.

I have fished with Tetsuya a few times before and he has caught some pretty nice yellowfin to 50 kg with us. I have also fished with ET several times with Troy Casser Daley and a recent segment at Pt Stephens when we caught a paraplegic guy in a wheel chair his first marlin. That was a great personal thrill for us all that day We ended up with three marlin overall and a great segment was run on ET’s Escape program last year.

ET and Tetsyua on Broadbill

The plan was to go tuna fishing but with 16 degree water it was agreed that kingfish would be a safer bet. We wanted a good quality sashimi fish and kings are in that category. We have been very successful on the kings for the past fortnight and although smallish would get the yarn done... So off to the peak we ventured in the 20 knot Sou Wester.

At first the kings were tough and had not schooled, however we persevered and caught several unders and then a few keepers. (The average fish at the moment is 4 to 5 kg, they are small, but they will also find their way to Tetsuya’s restaurant where he will prepare them on camera as sashimi for the show. It was hard to stay over the fish in the wind but by lunch time had caught enough on film to try something else.

We had caught a nice pinkie and a few jackets as a bit of variety. So we then head to the ever reliable flathead grounds and finished off the yarn with a reasonable catch of blue spot flathead.
Weather is major factor when it comes to a successful day and the early winds did make it tougher on the kingfish, but we ended up with a little tenacity having a great day.

Both ET (who is a great natural fisherman) and Tetsuya are beaut blokes to fish with and I will look forward to the segment on Escape in summer sometime.

PT STEPHENS ’09  IT’S ON AGAIN

We are taking bookings for PT STEPHENS ’09 If you would like to join us as a group of six or as an individual, we have some days lef

TWENTYONE MARLIN IN A DAY
PT STEPHENS 2005 ON BROADBILL

It was one of those days when you cannot feel anything but confident; after all, we had already caught a lot of marlin for the season and today was perfect for it …… no wind …… flat calm ocean and very little company. . I glanced southward and spotted a boat on the horizon, apart from that it seemed like we had the ocean to ourselves. Sometimes that can be an advantage, sometimes it is better when a few of the mates are around as we swap info via the radio; such conversations as "We've got a truck load of bait in 03 and just let one go", and so on can help guide us to the most productive spot.

8 tagged for the day in Feb	A high flying striped at Port Stephens
Bent rods and screamin' reels Pt Stephens at its best	Emu traces another striped at Pt Stephens last season
It was non stop action all day	One of the great days in my marlin career. It could not have
Pt Stephens produces some big wahoo as well	That's what I'm talkin' about

The good thing about fishing at the Port is that the skippers are all good friends and help each other, after all the better the reports and results the busier we all are.

Upon reaching the bait grounds in 75 fathoms, I eased the throttles back to trolling speed as Soxie made ready bait jigs, rods, bridle needles and tag poles. We trolled the grounds looking for the bait schools, the sounder redded out with vast schools of blue mackerel under us.

"Give it a jig here, Soxie?" I suggested from the bridge …… Rob dropped in the bait jig and pulled a full string of beaut big mackerel baits. The boys helped Rob take them off the jigs and despatch them into the live bait tank …… three more drops and we had a tank full of giant mackerel baits. On the fourth drop, three striped marlin followed the bait jig up and swam around the transom of the boat. We quickly bridled two baits and hooked two fish, both over 100 kg …… the day had started with a vengeance. The big fish danced every which way as I tried to figure which one to target first; and the fish on the left side stuck his head up I backed over and we released that one. One down, one to go.

The next one took 20 minutes and he too swam away with a tag for the trouble, only one marlin virgin to go. As I glanced seaward, I could see a bunch of shearwaters working a bait patch. We steamed the 500 metres to inspect; when we arrived there was a massive bait ball …… thousands of yellowtail balled up on the surface by a school of striped marlin like I had never seen before. There were perhaps 40 to 50 marlin tearing around the panicking bait, balling it tighter and tighter, until at a given moment they would attack the frenzied bait.

We backed over to the ball, threw in two baits and simultaneously hooked two stripes straight away. We would then chase them down, release and then back the bait for two more.

We could have thrown five baits in and hooked up five, but that would have been too messy and busy …… two was still a challenge; these were all big fish and did not always head in the same direction. Many times we slewed Broadbill on its keel to change direction in order to chase the fish, one around the bow then one to the stern, it was a Captain's dream to back up on this sort of action. We fished like we were in a frenzy and within four hours had tagged 16 marlin, it still only three o'clock.

One of the boys asked, "Hey, Ross, isn't your previous best 18?" I replied, "Yeh!" He added, "Let's see if we can beat it." I agreed, knowing where they were coming from. We had the ocean to ourselves so there was virtually no-one else competing for the bait ball so it made it that much easier.

If there were other boats, the fish may have spooked, but on this day we just kept going back to the baitfish and just kept hooking them up …… the lads certainly were not virgins anymore and by 6.30 pm we released our 21st marlin for the day …… we were all exhausted, but the adrenaline rush and the wild fishing was keeping us fired up. When we caught the last fish they were still snapping. We backed the boat into the pen that night at 8.30 pm.

It was a tired team that night as we struggled down the ladder from the bridge, it was now 15 hours since we first set foot aboard that morning and that is an honest days work, but no pain no gain some fool once said. Soxie and myself had to wake the anglers who had slept all the way home, quite understandably. Milestones were only made to be beaten, whether or not we will ever achieve such a feat again is debateable. We had fished the best marlin day of our career, a day when everything was right—the calm seas, the lack of opposition boats, and a schooled marlin population like we had never seen before.

Pt Stephens to the south	Yaccabah and Boondlebah..Pt Stephens
The magnificence of Port Stephens. Broady heads out for another great day	Broadbill's-deckie-Emu-Stev
Wild rampaging stripes It's On again in '09 Come and join us

I refer back to my days as a wet-behind-the-ears, lure-trolling, marlin fisho in the seventies …… when I longed for the day that we may be lucky enough to catch a multiple of marlin in a day. I had seen a boat that caught three in a day and just gazed in awe at the flags …… and dreamed that one day it may be my boat with that many flags on the rigger!

In the cockpit below, 35 years later, Soxie is putting 21 flags up the rigger. Putting it into perspective, I must admit that I was personally very proud: I consider that I have served my apprenticeship well over the years, I also needed the best crewman to help me achieve the result and in Soxie I had that.

It's sort of funny how after all those years you tend to take things in your stride a bit more. We don't have to prove ourselves anymore; generally people know that Broadbill will never be too far from the action, we have achieved much along the way but we still go out and have runs of catching bugger all and that keeps our feet on the ground …… that's what fishing is all about.

Imagine 21 striped marlin in one day that was achieved in ’05 on Broadbill, it is this sort of fishing that we have become accustomed to from these amazing grounds over the past three decades.
Our packages are for three days fishing including four nights waterfront accommodation .
These fishing grounds are simply the best marlin grounds in the world, add to this giant mahis, kingfish and wahoo and this is a fishing holiday of a lifetime.

COSTS ON A SHARE BASIS

At $1180.00  per head including 4 nights accommodation is more than affordable If you are interested ring 9534 2378 for more info or visit www.gamefishingcharters.com.au look in “Fishing Adventure packages” on this site.

As we are getting fairly well booked please do not hesitate to ring and book

THE BAT WINS CAIRNS LIGHT TACKLE COMP

The Bat alias Scott Taunton won the Cairns Light Tackle Tournament which was run out of Yorkeys Knob. His boat Valhalla won a  clean sweep of all categories.

The Bat and myself worked together for a fun filled decade	The Bat and his angler hold up a small black before release that won the tournament. They were the smallest boat competing

The Bat and I worked to gether on Broadbill for a decade and have remained firm friends for many years now.

I fished this tournament from the mid seventies to the 80’s on Laurie Woodbridge’s Sea baby 11 and also won it back then so it was fitting that my great friend and long suffering deckhand should keep tradition alive.

Great work Bat you are a champion.

NARWEE OLD BOYS REUNION

On a totally different subject we have organised a re union for Narwee High School
The Last Harrah is for any old boy who attended from ’58 to 65.
 Date Friday 26th Sept….. Cruise on Bass and Flinders 1 to 5pm
Give me a call if you are interested.

“ON THE HOOK” With CAPTAINS ROSS AND GLENN HUNTER

MID AUGUST REPORT

YELLOWFIN TUNA

That magnificent 20/ 21 degree water that held vast quantities of yellowfin with  it Our boats fished these warm edges BROADBILL and BILLFISHER catching record catches of big tuna every trip in late May / June and early July.. This water has now  receded to the north, but look out when it runs southward as Sept will be a wild month for yellowfin.

See Fishing Stories and Hints section of this site for some great photos of big tuna caught in those wild heady months and they will be back soon. We catch tuna right up until November off Sydney.

Book now and get the best moons… The run up to the full moon is dynamite for these fish. If they are not running then we recommend to our clients that a day on the kings or the big snapper be considered.

Cost $ 1550.00 for a max of seven anglers

A big tuna caught in late July on Billfisher	Cowra's darling Samantha Nichols with a nice king Not bad for an 11 year old
A great catch on Billfisher	a great table size fish
Broadbill's deckie Emu Steve with a nice snapper	Getting bigger
Greg Lee with a couple of respectable reds	Greg Lee with a great catch on Billfisher last week
The snapper have been constant but smallish	Snapper everyones favourite fish

SNAPPER AND KINGS

Billfisher and Broadbill fished down south for snapper and at the Peak for kings
The southern grounds worked well for small reds up to a couple of kilos ( my favourites and the best table size) These days I personally enjoy my snapper fishing immensely.
 Motors turned off, a little music on the stereo as the boats sits beautifully on anchor. Add to this formula some great snapper action fishing sp’s and floaters and you would not be dead for quids.
I headed to the Peak on Sunday and bagged out on kingfish in big numbers, but only kept a few as they were all “unders” .

KINGFISH GALORE

We released 50 kings. Best techniques was the use whole pilchards or jigging. ( the bait technique out fished the jigs) We had many double hook ups on the pillies. It’s a shame they are all rats but alas one can only catch what’s there and by and large the customers love this active action.
We are targeting the bigger kings out wide in the next few weeks

BEAUTIFUL BLUE SPOT FLATHEAD (To complete a great day)

We then hit the flathead grounds on the way home and caught 30 fish to 65 centimetres They were a mix or marbled and blue spots. By and large both boats had successful days without  being spectacular

Plenty of bent rods and that’s smiles on dials and happy campers………….I guess.

Double trouble on the pilchard rigs	Good on ya Con!
Got him on	Gusty westerlies have pre vailed all month. They will settle soon in the spring
Mark with a throwback king	On a big red
Playing a king on the light gear	The Cowra connection We had a great day until the wind came
Wow! they pull on that light tackle	Small but fun

PT STEPHENS 09 PT STEPHENS THE MARLIN SPECTACULAR…….2009

We are almost fully booked for the Pt Stephens marlin adventure.

See "FISHING ADVENTURE PACKAGES"  on this web site for more details.

These grounds are the best and most productive in Australia for giant mahis, wahoo and marlin, striped, blacks and blues.

You cannot be on better boats than Broadbill or Billfisher  they are most competitive and constantly produce the results.

Ross and Glenn are champions at the art of marlin fishing and will show you a great time on these trips.

We offer three day packages at $1250.00 per head, including accommodation for four nights and will take individual bookings or groups up to 6 people.

We will be at the Port from mid Jan to mid April 2009
Do not leave it too late to book.
Pt Stephens is one of the great fishing grounds catch black, blue and striped marlin, wahoo, giant mahis and tuna.

IN 2008 BILLFISHER AND BROADBILL RELEASED 211 MARLIN BETWEEN THE BOATS

IT SIMPLY IS ONE OF THE BEST FISHING HOLIDAYS YOU WILL HAVE.

TIPS FOR SEPTEMBER The return of some great tuna and lazy days on big reds The kingfish will remain as well.

“ON THE HOOK” with Captains Ross and Glenn Hunter  late July

Fishing on the Sydney scene has gone quite offshore, but on the inshore scene has picked up.
The yellowfin tuna season has been brilliant since early June, but alas the currents have receded that have been holding the big tuna and the tuna simply swam away with them with no thought at all for us fisherman.

Such is the fickle business of fishing for these big pelagic species.

Yellowfin tuna are very much followers of the thermo clines and iso therms that make up our oceanic currents and if the temperatures and the salinities are not what holds the nutrients and food source for the tuna then they simply do not live in that bit of ocean.

The past two weeks has seen some big tuna caught up to 66 kg but these have been in the minority and there has been a lot of fuel burnt and a lot of pilchards thrown in the ocean for little result by many of the boats

DON’T DESPAIR THEY’LL BE BACK SOON

When the fishing goes bad we attempt to convince our clients to try something else and the past three trips fishing off Coogee on our favourite bit of reef we nick named “Hunter’s Hill” we have caught brilliant catches of snapper, pearl perch,( what are they doing off Sydney in the cold 16 degree water) kingfish and big blue morwong.

A couple of cracker pearlys	Smiles on dials
Late june...early July the tuna thinned but there were still some good catches made	Billfisher excels
I caught one too	John with one of two perl perch he caught on Broadbill last week
Now that's a great feed	We also caught kings

We fished on anchor on Broadbill and had amazing catches for the past three trips and that’s better than travelling miles to the tuna grounds for zilch.

We are starting our annual snapper trips to the Bellambi grounds in July August, these are most popular and last year produced some great catches of quality reds to 7kg
The yellowfin will be back soon as the big warm eddy that is currently holding the fish,  is now heading back southward towards Sydney            

The Georges River is constantly fishing well for blackfish both Norm Jefferys, John Kearns and myself have had some good catches up river last week.

Mulloway have been caught in both Pt Hacking and the Georges River around the Bridges both on soft plastics and squid.  Fish the tide changes.

Tips for the next fortnight Yellowfin will return to the wide grounds and good snapper fishing down south.

A GREAT DAY ON THE REEF ON BROADY

Because of the uncertainty of the yellowfin tuna fishery of late I have lost the desire to be a professional “pilchard chopper upperer”.

Sure, there has been a couple of good fish caught, but there have been a lot of pilchards thrown in the creek and a lot of precious fuel burnt for zilch result by the unlucky ones.

So after a few trips of little result ( a couple of fleas and a blue and mako shark..they simply do not rate a mention) on the tuna we have begged our tuna charterers not to go after the illusive yellowfin, but to have a better day on the reef fish.

We have only tried the reds at the “Hump” twice and whilst we caught snapper every time, they were on the smallish side (up to 2kg which compared to the 6kg gems we caught regularly last season was a little disappointing).

This will improve soon with the cuttlefish run maybe in the next fortnight.

So rather than travel the 18 n mile southward we decided over the past few trips to fish our old reliable “Hunters Hill” a reef area north of Coogee nick named after our boats by others.

This area has, over 30 or so years produced some amazing catches of snapper, mowies, kings and misc table fish for us and the 6 n mile run makes it much closer.

Well, last week it fished so well from the moment we first anchored Broadbill we never stopped catching fish inc kings to 6kg and some throw backs around the 65cm mark. Two superb pearl perch ( in 16 degree water, I thought they preferred the warmer stuff) and a few reds and loads of mowies.

A great day was had by all of us, certainly better than catching no tuna.

PT STEPHENS 2009

To all our valued customers who have enjoyed the exciting fishing at my favourite part of the world Pt Stephens with us on Broadbill and Billfisher.

If you would like to join us in ’09 please ring 9534 2378 soon as bookings are already filling.

COSTS FOR ’09 IS $1250.00 PER HEAD (NB this figure could rise slightly with increases in diesel in ’09)

The above figure includes three exciting days fishing,  including 4 nights accommodation.

We have some share charters available but if you have a group of 6 then do not hesitate to ring.
Remember bookings are taking on a first in best dressed basis.

IF YOU WANT TO ENJOY A GREAT FISHING HOLIDAY THEN BOOK NOW.

“ON THE HOOK” …With Ross Hunter..JULY 1ST

THE BIG TUNA RUN…. IT’S BEEN RED HOT ACTION

THE BEST TUNA FISHING FOR A DECADE
Yellowfin tuna and albacore have provided offshore fisherman with spectacular fishing over the past fortnight.

It has been the wide grounds to the south that has seen some of the best tuna fishing for years and that has brought many smiles on our customers dials which gives us charter Captains a lot of joy. ……Happy customers ….job done

Famous ex Wallaby Bill Young socks it to a 200kg mako	yellowfin on broadbill Boadbill's deckie Emu gets ready to gaff a 30kg tuna
Another 30 kg tuna on Broadbill	A celibratory drink for the angler James Rodely's first tuna
A great day on Broadbill was had with Justin's group	A smaller fish caught last week
Back at the wharf ...the crew have caught yellowfin and albacore on Billfisher	Emanuel's first tuna He caught it on Broadbill last trip

The fish have been big and solid with some of their tuna weighing 50 kilos the albacore (my personal favourite as a table fish weighing in at 10 kg).

On Broadbill and Billfisher we generally allow one fish per angler to be kept for the table, after that we release.

BE AWARE AND DO NOT WASTE OUR PRECIOUS RECOURCE
These fish are in decline because of overfishing by both Australian long liners and the International fleet, fishing 200 miles offshore. These vessels set upwards of 4000 hooks and indiscriminately catch every thing that swims near the lethal long line. Sharks, marlin, broadbill swordfish and of course all the tuna species are all suffering the same fate.

Whilst we realise that there is a world demand for these species, fisherman throughout history have had an abysmal record for overfishing until the stocks are endangered and then they go broke after the damage has been done and there’s no sustainable industry left.

We need millions of dollars poured into these fisheries and our oceans in research by all nations as to the sustainability of our fish stocks, before it is too late.

Ben Johnson hooked up on 15kg The big fish went 45kg	Even Captain Glenn Hunter gets on a rod when the fishing is this hot
Hooked up and fighting	James Rodely with his first yellowfin Happy you bet!
Justin's crew on Broadbill last week..... A great catch	Justin's first tuna...happy you bet
Now they are big tuna	Paul Caruanas 45 kg yellowfin tuna caught on Billfisher last week

It was the Howard Liberal government that offered long-liners and all commercial offshore fishermen a 220 million dollar buy out; this reduced our fleet from 120 to less than 20 with many thankfully accepting the buy out.

This will reduce the pressure on our pelagic stocks and see a regeneration of tuna over the next decade.

However, we as recreational anglers must realise that Mother Ocean not a bottomless pit and treat her inhabitants with respect, Never kill more that you can eat, every fish released helps and also sets an example for others to follow.

HAPPY ANGLERS ON OUR BROADBILL AND BILLFISHER
I guess when you’ve been catching tuna for 40 years there are a few tips one picks up on the way, a bloke would have to be pretty silly not to gain a little, along that sort of journey.

It is this reason why we are more successful than others by a country mile when it comes to catching tuna.

It is the ability to read the oceanic currents and to go to the right areas, even if it adds some hours to the day we make the effort.

A thumper of an albacore	Albacore have been plentifull as well.. These were trolled
Snapper on the last trip were small, but a great day was enjoyed	The lads from the Bass Angler Penrith get into the action on Broadbill
Then it is Emanuel's turn	A great fish caught by Phil from The Bass Angler

It is results that we strive for and most times achieve. So many boats go to Browns Mountain, but sometimes that is just not place to be as the fish are to the south or elsewhere.

This sort of experience cannot be read in fishing mags or by watching DVD’s it is accumulated knowledge that is learnt from the thousands of tuna trips our boats have done over that long period of time.

That is why you cannot go past fishing with the best boats with Ross or Glenn both third generation family fishermen, they simply get the job done and catch the tuna more regularly than others and the records are constantly there.

We may be a little more expensive but we have the best boats and in this business you get what you pay for.

There is no substitute for experience and dedication

We have had success every trip on yellowfin and albacore, sure some better than others but that’s fishing there are no guarantees. Glenn Hunter especially has caught some amazing fish for his clients Fish up to 50 kg, throw in a few makos and albies and there has been some wild action in June.

Check out the photos of some great fish and to all our anglers and there are too many to mention.

Thanks for your company during these great tuna sojourns and congratulations from Glenn and myself on your catches of some spectacular yellowfin

SNAPPER TRIPS
We did our first snapper trip to the southern grounds and whilst we caught a dozen or so the fish were small and the day was a beauty we had a beaut time and ended up with a feed of platers up to 1.8 kg. Most of the fish were caught on floaters.

These trips last year produced fish to 7 kg with regular catches of fish in the 3 to 4 kg size.  See Fishing Stories and Hints on this site. Scroll back for a preview of last seasons catches.

The grounds we fish are 18 miles southwards and really do produce some great snapper through July August.. Great days light tackle fishing these magnificent grounds

COSTS FOR YELLOWFIN AND SNAPPER TRIPS $260.00 per head
Note well this may rise with fuel costs

BOOK NOW RING 9534  2378

TIPS FOR THE NEXT FORTNIGHT

Yellowfin, albacore and blue fin out wide and an improvement of snapper fishing down south.

“ON THE HOOK” with Ross Hunter………………3/6/08

Having just returned from a few weeks sailing the Capricorn coast with our friends Brian and Jan Hooker on their yacht “Hooks”.

We visited Lady Musgrave Island, 1770, Pancake Creek, Bustard Head, Yellow Patch, Hummocky Island and Keppel Island.  We caught Spanish mackerel and eat mud crabs regularly ……What a wonderful experience to be able to appreciate this beautiful country we live in from the ocean.

Having enjoyed the breathtaking scenery from this part of OZ, it really makes me realise how lucky we are to be afforded the privilege in living in this magnificent country. 

YELLOWFIN TUNA FRENZY OFF SYDNEY

40 KG of pure power	A 20 kg model
Another good fish on Billfisher	Another late bite
Anthony Chaffey The Human Winch with his big fin	Billfisher's deckie The Emu traces a 45kg yellowfin
Brett Skinner's group caught some beauties on Billfisher	Captain Glenn Hunters Billfisher The angler Mark Josephs about t land a 45kg tuna

CAPTAIN GLENN HUNTER CATCHES HEAPS ON BILLFISHER

Whilst I have been having a holiday Captain Glenn Hunter on his boat Billfisher has been catching amazing catches of big yellowfin.

He has fished 12 days in a row and caught tuna every trip, the fish have ranged from 20 to 58kg
Local Cronulla anglers Dwayne Ellis’s group caught big fish as did Sydney surgeon, Dr Mark Joseph. Mark excelled by catching a 45kg yellowfin on fly gear and that’s not easy when they are big powerful fish that fight to the last..

Entertainment Book Creator..Ben Johnson,  scored big fish each trip up to 30kg on both trips
Peakhurst’s Mark Stirton’s crew caught big fish as did retail store “Bing Lee’s” Greg Lee .Greg is a most experienced angler who loved the wild action catching 9 tuna in two trips, 7 of those fish were released

Glenn has caught over 60 yellowfin for his anglers over the past two weeks.
 (quite a few have been released, we never encourage overkill on our boats)  
A great effort by this most professional skipper, making me a very proud Dad.

On many occasions he has been fishing at 6.30pm at night, not getting back into port until 8.30 but that’s when they’ve been coming on the bite………………….. That’s why he has caught more tuna than others, such has been the determination of this dedicated tuna skipper..

I can see this run of tuna lasting for a while and whilst we will be land based for a few days with some wild weather, the fish will still be there for the long weekend and beyond.

THE FISH HAVE BEEN BIG AND TOUGH

Dr Mark Joseph with his 45kg tuna caught on Fly	Dr Mark Josephs on a big tuna on fly gear
Now that's a great tuna	Fire up the barbeque Mum
Fish up is the cry.. Glenn heads for the gaff	Greg Lee hooked up on the Saltiga
Greg Lee's big tuna caught on Billfisher last week	Greg Lee's second tuna

When yellowfin grow to the 50kg size we are talking about a great challenge even on 24kg. These fish fight and fight hard right to the end and I have never heard an angler say “That was easy” after a back breaking gruelling effort on a big fish.

I caught a 97kg fish on 15kg at “The Peak” many years ago and after 4.5 hours on the rod made the decision, having caught the fish that it was to be my last, such was the pain .
I have caught a few smaller fish since them but these days leave the jumbos to someone else.

There has been many other anglers who have fished with Glenn If I have missed a group or two I appoligise and trust that you maybe in the photos.

Happy.... what do you reckon	Hooked up as Glenn gets ready for a second run
Hooked up and fighting	Johhny Boo Cartlidge gives the angler a little encouragement
Mark Josephs dishes it out on fly gear The fish went 45 kg	Now that's a big tuna
Dwayne Ellis with his big tuna on Billfisher	Paul gets lucky on Billfisher

BOOK NOW FOR THIS WILD JUNE TUNA ACTION

We always tell people who ask “What is the best time for tuna a mate?’
Our reply is:
“When they are here!” and believe me They are here, thick and fast and they are big

This is some of the best tuna action we have seen for many years and if you and your friends want to enjoy this ball busting action on one of our boats then book now , not in a months time, make the effort to get in whilst the bite is on and you and your friends will have a ball.

Peter Mc Nally with a great tuna	The legend Johnny Boo with a great fish
The Maroubra connection with the best of the day	The Winch and Boo with a couple of honkers
They have all been fat fish

DETAILS ON COSTS

Groups of up to 6 people $1550 for the boat or $260.00 per head …duration of the day 10 hours and we supply every thing but food and drinks
We take all c cards but Diners Amex attracts a2% surcharge

NB All prices are subject to fuel costs and may rise slightly in accordance with that.

SNAPPER TRIPS JUNE, JULY AND AUGUST

 We are starting our snapper trips soon for those interested the big fish are running and June , July. August and Sept are the months. We take 6 anglers and the cost is $260.00 per head. We catch fish to 7 kg on a regular basis on these sojourns Great days indeed fishing light tackle floaters for big reds. We will cater for individuals on these trips

RING 9534 2378 TO BOOK NOW

VALE…………. STEVE THE SHOOTER

It is with great sadness that we morn the loss of our dear friend and fellow fisher man Steve “The Shooter” Odelli … I have had the pleasure of fishing with Steve for many years catching marlin, tuna and snapper. He was a total gentleman and a pleasure to fish with.

The Winch and The late Steve Odelli on our last snapper sojourn on Broadbill. RIP my friend

Steve was a patient and excellent fisherman who died in the pursuit of his first love fishing when the vessel he was in suffered an accident at Bermagui on the south coast Both Glenn and myself offer our condolences to his family and friends.
We will both miss his smiling face.

REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND

IF YOU FISH WITH THE BEST YOU ARE GIVING YOURSELF A HEAD START TO SPECTACULAR YELLOWFIN FISHING

ON BROADBILL AND BILLFISHER WE HAVE BEEN CATCHING THEM ALL OUR LIVES AND THAT’S EXPERIENCE THAT HAS BEEN EARNED
FROM A LIFETIME OF CATCHING TUNA

“ON THE HOOK” with Captain Ross and Glenn Hunter…Mid May Report

THE SHIRES JOHN Mc INTIRE CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF FISHING

Fishing has been most productive both inshore and offshore over the past fortnight.
Out wide  the yellowfin run has started. Glenn Hunter’s Billfisher caught two yellowfin to 41 kg as did Rob Curry on Marquis and Mark Mikellsen on Triton.

The yellowfin were trolled on bibles minnows out wide.
The big fish were caught in the John McIntire tournament run by the Port Hacking Gamefishing club to celebrate John’s 50 years of gamefishing.

The event was enjoyed by all competitors with 15 boats fishing celebrating John Mc Intire’s amazing lifetime of gamefishing Well done Macka!

There was a 269 mako caught on 15kg by Chill Factor and Just Chill won tag and
Release.
Billfisher caught a 40.9 kg tuna for angler Peter Mc Nally a personal best.

We are taking bookings now for tuna trips and will be starting our snapper days down south in June.

Ring Glenn or Ross 0418 462 476 0r 95342378 to enquire about details

Broadbill	Two great yellowfin on Billfisher on Saturday
Nemo's marlin..238kg Steve Schnepp angler	We will be starting our snapper trips in June

SNAPPER TRIPS STARTING IN JUNE

For all those groups who fished with us last season and caught all those big reds It’s on again We are starting our snapper tours in June BOOK NOW as these are most popular trips amongst our clients

The is still the odd striped marlin around the 120 fathom line I raised a striped last trip
Blue marlin are also worth targeting The Botany Bay Gamefishing vessel Nemo scored a 238 kg blue last week for angler Steve Schnepp it was a personal best.

In the Georges there has been some great fishing especially big flathead The Towra Peninsular has produced some beauties up to 8kg mainly on soft plastics and live bait.
Blackfish too have been excellent with all popular spots on the Georges, fishing to bag limits last week
Norm Jefferys and myself caught a good feed in the upper Georges last week and this will improve with the better tides this week.

In Botany Bay tailor have been thick at the hot water as well as mulloway and bream at the runway.
There has been a good run of big whiting as well. Worms are a must as bait.

On the inshore reefs off Botany to the north and south good catches of flathead, jackets and mowies with the odd red as a bonus have been the results.

BOOK NOW FOR THE START OF THE YELLOWFIN RUN

BOOK THE BEST DAYS AROUND THE FULL MOON.

FISH ON SYDNEYS MOST RESPECTED BOATS THAT PRODUCE THE FISH CONSTANTLY.

“ON THE HOOK” ….With Captains Ross and Glenn Hunter..
MAY REPORT

BROADBILL AND BILLFISHER BACK IN SYDNEY

Life has been very busy for the past few weeks and we have not had time to update the reports, sorry about that.

Both Broadbill and Billfisher have fished the most spectacular marlin grounds of Pt Stephens (100 nautical miles north of Sydney) since mid January and whilst we are back in Sydney now, it is always a little nostalgic leaving our second home.

Summarizing the season, both boats worked 60 days each and we tagged and released 108 marlin that may sound pretty successful but in fact going by other seasons, it was a little mediocre.

In early January the fish were every where big mahis,stripes (Broady’s best day was eight stripes), blacks and even the odd blue marlin , however by late February the fish were thinning out with catches of one’s and two’s per day, the average.

Then came mid March and we were all wondering where to go to catch a fish.

April did not come good, like it can do at Pt Stephens, however it did improve marginally.

I recall in ’97 catching 18 in a day in late April but then again that was the greatest of all marlin seasons, a season when we caught 248 on Broadbill. Catches of 10’s and 12 were common every day. Will the glory days return? Yes! I believe they will but when I would not predict.

SUMMARISING THE 2008 PT STEPHENS MARLIN SEASON

We have had the privilege of fishing the season with some wonderful people Fishermen and woman of varying degrees of experience, Some marlin virgins others having caught heaps.
I guess that’s the trill of what we do especially catching an angler their first marlin always a special thrill for a dedicated skipper.

We had that experience on several occasions There were some great groups, to many to individualise.

Chris Herbert's Absolute we had a great day on her tagging 6 for the day. A Beautiful boat to drive	Broadbill's deckie The Emu rigs up some skippers..We caught 8 stripes that day
We worked 60 days and that's along time at the helm	Daniel socks it to a big striped marlin
Eight tagged for the day That's how good it was in January early February	Theis big striped had only a stump of a bill
We released 103 marlin for the Pt Stephens stay	A typical winter fin off Sydney..They will be running soon
The yellowfin season is just around the corner

Our regulars, The Fish raiders, Clinton Bartholomew’s and his team, Chris O’Neil and the lads. Mike Rowe and the Interclub team and so many other groups that have fished with us for in some cases 18 years. All our clients caught fish, some more lucky than others, but I guess that’s fishing and always will be.

To all our customers both Glenn and myself thank you for your company and we look forward to Pt Stephens ’09 with you all.

TASSIE TROUT FISHING THE CAPTAIN HITS THE FRESH WATER

Having returned to Sydney last week it was onto a plane and down to Tasmania for a week of trout fishing with my friend Gordon Johnson.

We fished the highland lakes mainly Lake Arthur, Woods Lake a Lone Pine lagoon.
Lake Arthur on the first day fishing from local Launceston trout guru Paul Ellis’s boat, we caught eight browns. The fish were all caught on sinking fly.

Paul at the helm on Woods Lake	Gordo and Paul Ellis at Woods Lake
Jonah point	Paul with a brown from Lake Arthur
One of the better browns at Lone Pine Lagoon	The beauty of the highland lakes Gordo at Lone Pine
We fish the Meander River for 5 small browns..Pretty but not so productive	A friendly platypus comes over to say hello

The second day we heard that Woods lake was red hot so that’s were we headed but alas the trout did not agree so back to the Pump house at Arthur where we managed a couple of fish. We bid Paul Good Bye and Gordon and I headed to the lone Pine Lagoon in The campervan. Here we caught a couple of beat browns and lost a couple more.

It was a great sight seeing the big trout tailing in the shoreline weed beds in the early morn We fished the highlands for a couple of days then headed to a few streams to try our hand.

The first stream was the Meander River, here we caught 6 trout all on “dry above nymph” from this pretty river. We then camped at the Mersey River and caught nil fish, but did see a platypus from a metre away and that’s the closest I have ever been to one in the wild. We the n fished the St Patrick River and caught a couple of small browns.

The weather was spectacular and we saw some beautiful country.
I have very much fallen in love with Tasmania it is indeed a beautiful place and a most exciting venue to fish.

The fishing was not brilliant but we did catch a few excellent trout.
We both had fly fisherman’s shoulder upon our return such was the casting effort
We are both looking forward to next year already.

THE SYDNEY SCENE …YELLOWFIN, KINGS AND SNAPPER

Marlin will be prevalent until June and we can expect the start of the yellow fin run any day now.
We will be starting our snapper safaris in June..Last season we caught snapper to 7kgs these trips are most productive for big snapper and are most popular.

To book ring 9534 2378
Costs $1500.00 per day for 6 anglers max

“ON THE HOOK” With Ross and Glenn Hunter……April 1st

We are still fishing the magnificence of my afvourite port in the world Pt Stephens Our Tally is 83 marlin and whilst that sounds pretty good it really is a little down on other seasons we will end up around 100 marlin for the season .
Our best day has been 8 to none .. From hero to zero they say in the proffesiom
We have two weeks left and will predict that the next weeweek will see a major improvement in the fishing There is a big flow of 24 degree water coming through and this will improve the steady fishing.

Congrats to Captain Tim Dean on his boat Calypso on his ladies fly fishing 12 pound test 62kg striped.

A black flies high off Broughton Island Billfisher caught three that day	A black marlin flies high off Broughton Island
Black Marlin	A big striped about to be tagged in The Northern Waters Tour
A big black	Absolute with tag flags. We had a great day catching 6 stripes

I had the pleasure of driving my good friend Chris Herbert’s 53 Bertram Absolute last week  (what a superb boat, it’s twin 1000 hp Mans push her along at 30 knots  so getting out and back is never a long haul).

We caught 6 big stripes and had a great day, we then went back bright eyed and bushy tailed a few days later and never saw one, such is the changeable fishing at the moment.

We have raised a fish or two every trip, but by and large the fishing has been steady, but there is good times coming in April.

APRIL IS THE MONTH

We really do have great expectations for April We have caught 18 marlin in a day in April and normally it really fires in April as does Sydney.

We have a spot for a group Aril 7th and the weekend of the 12thCosts 1800.00 per day for up to 6 anglers or 300.00 per head .

If you have a bunch of friends who would like to enjoy some great marlin and mahi mahi action then give us a call on 0409 047 727 to discuss

BROADBILL AND BILLFISHER BACK IN SYDNEY ON 17TH APRIL

BOOK NOW FOR YOUR SYDNEY ADVENTURES

Fishing is red hot in April 9 in ‘97 Broadbill caught and released  13 marlin in a day and also caught The Sydney Waters record Blue marlin at 297 kg on 24kg

Costs…………….. $1500.00 per day for six anglers @ 250.00 per day each

ON THE HOOK  with Captain Ross and Glenn Hunter March 2008

BROADBILL and BILLFISHER PASS THE 50 MARLIN MILESTONE

We have now caught 53 marlin and whilst that sounds great it is not quite as good as we would like. Our best day has been 8 marlin and our worst zeros.

The area is still more than reliable with both boats doing ones to threes a day The mix is predominantly stripes from 60 to 110 kg .

We have had many great groups but because of the time factor I cannot do as good a report as I would like.

We had our private Northern Waters tournament as previously reported and then the Interclub run by the NSWGFA Around 208 boats fished the get together and whilst the first and second Saturdays were cancelled because of the bad weather the fishing was constant without being brilliant.

A black marlin jumps for the Fishraider A boofhead photo	A striped flys high on Broadbill
A nice striped ready for tagging	Action a plenty
Another Pt Stephens marlin	Striped tagged and about to be released
The big striped swims free after a tough fight	Serious backing up
Danny Goode's huge mahi on Billfisher	Part of the weather, lots of rain and this water spout

I fished the 55 Maritimo which was great experience What a magnificent vessel  boasting pure luxury and brute speed This 30 tonne beauty can do a genuine 36 knots leaving high speed trailer boats in its wake . It certainly was a lifetime experience to skipper this amazing boat.

We caught four fish but that was not good enough, but our crew had a great time for the tournament.

When more time permits I will do a more detailed report.

We are now looking forward to another six weeks without the overcrowding we have experienced with all the visiting vessels and that will make a great difference to the Pt Stephens fishery.

Living in luxury as Roscoe pwers the 55 Maritimo homewards after a days fishing	Clynton wins champion angler for his 160 kg blue marlin
Tony Ceccatto wins runner up champion boat in the Northern Waters	Scott Thorrington takes out champion boat on Freedom

“ON THE HOOK” with Ross and Glenn Hunter mid February.

PT STEPHENS MID FEBRUARY

FLASHES OF BRILLIANT MARLIN FISHING WITH SOME DAYS TOUGHER THAN OTHERS.
We have just finished 3days with one of our favourite groups “The Fishraiders”. Owners, Stew and Donna Case run the best Fisherman’s web site in Australia Fishraider .com .au
The weather was not so kind to us with rainy cold almost miserable days at sea.

Maryanne plays her first marlin on Broadbill	Fishraider boss Stew Case having just released a big striped marlin
This water spout missed us by metres Typical of some of the bad weather we have had	Living in luxury as Roscoe pwers the 55 Maritimo homewards after a days fishing
Giant dollies on Billfisher

We did get one day when the fishing and weather went hand in hand we caught nine marlin.
For Maryanne, Grant, Stew, McGoose and Boofhead it was the loss of their marlin virginity but for Donna and Brett Skinner they are both seasoned veterans.

We really did enjoy the guys and girls company and look forward to their return maybe later on in the season.

THE NORTHERN WATERS INVITATIONAL

It was then our own Northern Waters invitational get-together, a most popular and a most relaxed get together of 10 boats hosted by the Salamander Shores and fished with Fun foremost in mind.

The boats as entered were:
MARITIMO
BILLFISHER
FEEDOM
ABSOLUTE
SEA WARRIOR
WAHOO
OUT WIDE
DUTCHIE
TRITON
PACIFICA

I had the great pleasure to have skippered the brand new 55 Maritimo for three days and whilst my dear old Broadbill fits like a well worn glove, it was pure luxury to skipper the big boat. This is one of the finest vessels in the big boat market today with twin 1000hp Caterpillar engines that give her 37 knots top speed. The boats cruises through the big seas with great ease.

I will be skippering her again soon and look forward to it immensely.

DAY ONE
Northern waters day one, we were greeted by 25 knots sou- easters and 3 metre seas, but that did not deter many as they batted out to the Mosh Pit through the big seas.

It was Maritimo, first on the board when we switched a nice striped for last years winners, the Nivea team headed up by Clynton Bartholomeusz.

Absolute called in a big mahi and Wahoo, Rob Duddy’s 7 metre trailer boat called in two marlin, a striped and a blue caught late.

By and large the boats worked hard in the rough conditions to catch fish
Sea warrior also released a striped.

DAY TWO
Once again we punched big seas that were showing signs of abating out to the grounds It was Scott Thorrington’s Freedom that excelled with three marlin for the day shooting his crew to the lead.Ot wide skippered by Tony Ceccatto fished up north and in close and called in a black marlin of 80 kg on Out Wide too scored a fish. Glenn Hunter on Billfisher raised an few but could not convert and this was common with many of the fleet Raise ‘em but can’t catch ‘em was the call on the radios.

DAY THREE
At last better weather we all headed for the wide grounds, however Out Wide chose to stay inshore and called in two more black. Tony’s hunch paid off in two marlin, now  equaling Freedom and then Wahoo called in a fish at the death nock.

Maritimo spent an hour catching a blue marlin of 160 kg The angler Clynton Bartholomeusz did a great job on stand up to tame the big fish.

Glenn Hunter on Billfisher struck gold with two stripes and five huge dollies to 20kg

The presentation night was great with some great entertainment from singer and guitarists Peta and yours truly, contributed with a few songs as well.

All in all a wonderful three days with some great mates and we all I am sure will look forward to Northern Waters 2009 at Pt Stephens.

There was a total of 15 marlin released for the three days. Last year the results were 26 marlin, so it was a tad quieter that’s for sure, but that’s the wonderful world of marlin fishing.

Champion boat Freedom..Scott Thorrington accepts the trophy	Champion boat Runner up Outwide at the presentation night
Cheff John provided us with a beautiful Sally Shores meal	Danny Goodes accepts the trophy for his 20 kg mahi
Tournament Wanker Roscoe

RESULTS NORTHERN WATERS 2008

CHAMPION BOAT and R MARLIN …………FREEDOM  Capt Scott Thorrington ( 3 marlin on a countback)

RUNNER UP CHAMPION BOAT ….OUTWIDE …Tony Ceccato on a countback

BIGGEST DOLPHIN FISH …BILLFISHER …ANGLER DANNY GOODE
(A 20 KG MAHI)

BIGGEST MULLOWAY…….DUTCHIE HOLLAND

CHAMPION ANGLER - NEIL GREEN……WAHOO

MOST MERITORIOUS FISH….Clynton Bartholomeusz ……..160 kg blue marlin on MARITIMO

TOURNAMENT WANKER……..Ross Hunter for losing 4 fish in a row on the big MARITIMO

SUMMARIZING THE SEASON SINCE JANUARY
We have seen flashes of the Pt Stephens of old and tough days were the fish went off the bite and this combined with rough weather made fishing tough.

We have released over 40 fish in less than a month so it’s not all doom and gloom, our best day eight for the day.

We too have caught some big dollies up to 20kg Billfisher caught five beauties yesterday.

It is my prediction that the inshore fishery will hot up soon for blacks and stripes
Let’s hope so!

“ON THE HOOK” with Captains Ross and Glenn Hunter
Early February

PT STEPHENS 2008
Sorry regular readers for no updates but our workload has not allowed us time to sit and report We have released 24 marlin since arriving and whilst that sounds great, it is not up to what we have come to expect from these world famous marlin grounds..

PT STEPHENS THE FIRST TWO WEEKS

Pt Stephens The first two days….Well it has been a dream start for our first couple of days with Singaporean Shimano rod builders Kervin, Daniel and camera man Tong.
The boys are all marlin virgins and traveled to Oz to make a movie on some marlin fishing and dolphin fish action.

Every thing went our way when we released 10 marlin and released 20 dolphin fish. We only marlin fished yesterday for 3 hours and then headed to the FAD for some dollies. The marlin were all stripes to 110 kg and the dollies all rats.

Then the next group headed up by Greg Towel, Hal Sarrow Daniel Camalliri,Greg Wicking and South Australia’s Col Whiting and Gary Gonish.

FIVE MARLIN

The lads caught 5 marlin with the biggest going around 100kg It Was the elder of the group who performed so we Hall Sarrow caught his first marlin ( a 70 kg Striped)  as well as the biggest mahi so far around 7kg.
The boys were great fun to fish with

Then my great friend and schoolmate Ray Patterson.
Patto’s group arrive and unfortunately the marlin fishing went a little cold , however the sight of a 300 plus mako, cart wheeling out of the water 25 metres from the boat was sight enough for some great memories for the lads The big fish bit us off after a while and I was not disappointed. We reef fished the last days and caught an good feed , went into Broughton Island for lunch and generally had a beaut day We did raise a few marlin for the first two days but luck was not with us in catching them.

Kervin socks it to a big striped on stand up	And another is released
Broadbill's deckie Emu Steve lays on a good striped	The Emu was kept busy on deck with 8 released marlin this day
Striped tagged and about to be released	Hal Sarrow with his nice mahi
That's what I'm talkin about 8 for the day

For our long time charters Rod Mackander the fishing stayed diss appointing with a couple of stripes raised and even one hooked bout no fish landed. But as the lads said quote ‘Roscoe we’ve been spoilt over the years with multiple catches each day in the past we cannot complain”.

Then the weather closed in for the unlucky Maroubra boys the lads had Billfisher and Broadbill booked with 12 anglers .We fished the Monday which was as miserable a day at sea one could imagine Pouring rain, 300 metres visibility, blowing 20 knots out of the squalls , just plain miserable.
We caught a few mahis.

Because of the weather we w canned the next day and had a lay day.

However the Wednesday turned out to be a beauty as we headed ou bright eyed and bushy tailed and whilst the fishing had improved it still is not the Pt Stephens we’ve come to expect.

We caught a 100 kg striped it was Rob Ekin’s first marlin encounter and he did a great job in subduing the big striped after half an hour. Keith Harris was unlucky when a fish he had on threw the hook after a short battle , meanwhile across the way Glenn Hunter on Billfisher was cleaning up on double hook ups.

It was Moff’s turn to break his marlin virginity on a big striped.
To sum up the fishing was wild when we first arrive in mid Jan but has tapered off, but will come back.

We have been most successful live baiting, switch fishing and skipping dead baits.
More reports soon.

“0N THE HOOK” With Captains Ross and Glenn Hunter   January 2008

My Grandfather told me when I was a child as we sat together in his rowing boat, fishing“Son good things come to those who wait !” Well that happened yesterday when both Billfisher and Broadbill caught and released striped marlin.

It was a special thrill for both anglers that caught the big fish, as it was their first marlin experience
Both David Strom and Peter Watling battled their marlin with the skill of veterans, we were thrilled as a crew to be apart of the action and the excitement, it is what us skippers live for.

Rob “Soxy” Cox was at the helm in lue of Glenn Hunter on Sunday when a 60 kilo striped jumped on a soft plastic saurie in the gusty nor east conditions.

Rob did a great job chasing the fish down in the rather sloppy conditions.
It is indeed encouraging that the bait schools have showed and with them are the marlin.
Not to be outdone or to rest on laurels Soxie went back out on Sunday and it was Greg Towel’s turn to break his marlin virginity and he was a happy angler,when 80 kg’s of striped marlin danced for 40 minutes on the end of his rod.

The fish was released after a great fight

A full string of big slimeys	A 60 kg striped ready for tagging on Billfisher
A great sight for an angler and crew	A Rob Cox photo of the striped in flight
And the crew watch on	A great sight for an angler and crew
Beautiful action shot	Peter Watling with his marlin tag flag about to go up on Broadbill
Tagged and released	Tagged and released

PT STEPHENS HERE WE COME

Both Broadbill and Billfisher head north to Pt Stephens this week and I am looking forward to that.
It is our second home and one of the best marlin fisheries in the world.

We still have two weekends available One is the January long weekend. The other the first weekend in April

COSTS $1080.00 PER HEAD FOR THREE DAYS FISHING INCLUDING ACCOMMODATION

Having fished these amazing waters for over three decades I am convinced that this magnificently picturesque place is one of the most productive marlin fisheries in the world and for us lucky New south Welshman, it's right on our door step.

Imagine catches of 16,18 and 21 marlin in a day or 248 for a season that is world class by anyone's standards.

The average size of a Pt Stephens striped is around 80kg and these double figure, per day numbers are achieved by the charter fleet every season from January to late April.

Each summer season there are many charter boats that travel from as far as Cairns to the north and Bateman Bay to the south to join us locals at Pt Stephens.

These boats target the abundant stocks of blacks; blues (and the most predominant marlin) the striped on all types of tackle, be-it fly-fishing, spear fishing or conventional tackle.

Many of my long time friends are in this regime, very experienced skippers and the most respected marlin captains in the world, all turn up on que- Captains Glenn Hunter on Billfisher, Jim Dalling on Reel Chase, Tim Dean Calypso, Scott Thorington Freedom, Bill Billson Viking 11, Brian Felton Inya Dreams Cory Hard Maunikia, Bob Jones Fascination 11, Paul Whelan Devil's Pride, Sparrow Denham Square Bear, Biggles on his boat and yours truly on Broadbill we all drift in and out for the season.

Us Captains love the place, not just for its beauty in landscape but also for its camaraderie.
The charter industry works well in this Port, there is a lot of harmony between skippers and that always works well, no petty jealousies, just a bunch of likeminded skippers wanting to catch fish,
Many of us not seeing each other for most of the year then catching up for a couple of months doin' what we do best, catching marlin.

In the long run "Happy customers, smiles on dials …that’s what I'm talkin' about". And we get that from catching marlin and we work together to achieve that end result for our clients

I recall Jim Dalling calling me up and saying from his vantage point on the tower of "Reel Chase" "Come over here Roscoe there's a bunch of stripes on a bait ball'.

We caught several fish in a couple of hours, both of us going backwards chasing a hot fish, most of the time.

However it is not just the brilliant marlin fishing, it is also the superb scenery of the place that I never get sick of looking at, it really is a breathtaking port to leave from and then come home to after a busy days fishing.

The entrance to the port is made up of Headlands and Islands that are remnants of an extinct volcano from a long forgotten dinosaur era.

The highest mountain to the south Tomaree forms an embattlement that protects the mariners from bad weather, making the port a most safe passage for our boats.

To the north Yaccabah with its picturesque, almost vertical mountainous slopes and giant wind eroded gorges that the sea pounds into with great force, sending plumes of spray forever skyward.

Always.a most spectacular sight as we steam to the bait grounds at first light.
The colours of these beautiful steeped cliffs changes constantly with sunlight, depending on the light of the day.

Then there's Cabbage Tree Island with its western rain forest and gorges full of cabbage trees, home of the tiny Gould's Petrel and a resident family of white-bellied sea eagles.
To the south Little Island and Boondelbah Island they all form the breathtaking oceanic entrance to the Port.

Over the years there have been many fishing milestones, Broadbill's twenty-one marlin in a day in February 2005.

A day when a bait ball was found with an estimated 80 striped marlin working it up all day.

All we had to do was to back up to it, throw two live baits in and immediately hook up a double on stripes.

There also has been many World and Australian records on all kinds of tackle all caught from this world-class fishery.

The area constantly produces record catches of stripes and juvenile black marlin (fish to 150kg) and some "honker" blue marlin up to 350kg.

But there are other species that are targeted and they are mahis, yellowfin and cobia and they come in XXXOS size as well.

If it is a fisherman's holiday you want and you also wouldn't mind coming back with

"Your arms dangling like those of an ape from the stretching they'll get during your stay" then visit us at PT.STEPHENS you will not be disappointed.

Do not hesitate to book for '08 the season January to April

NAUTILUS MARINE INSURANCE AND THE HUNTER LADS

It was February last year at Pt Stephens when Ian Frith, Mark Crockford and Jared Kaplan invited Glenn and myself and our vessels BROADBILL and BILLFISHER to join the NAUTILUS INSURANCE TEAM.

Having known Ian Frith as a personal friend and observed from a distance the inroads he had made in marine insurance, there were no second thoughts; Glenn and I were there, decision made.

“Frithy” is a champion man who has been around the fishing scene all his life, it is this hands on experience that gives him the edge in understanding the finer points of fisherman’s specialised needs when insuring their boats and equipment.

To be a part of a winning team headed up by these guys is a privilege, not only the fact that were invited to represent the Nautilus group as their flag ships from the charter industry ( a choice of which we both feel most honoured) but also because they are a bunch of good blokes who understand the fisherman’s insurance needs and we are proud also to put our names and reputations on the line without a second thought.

Nautilus insure all recreational vessels and commercial as well…The fact that Broadbill and Billfisher are both insured with Nautilus is testimony enough in our belief in this great insurer.

We recommend that if you are looking to insure your vessel that you give Nautilus a call and get a quote …………they simply are the most efficient way of insuring your vessel and the price and service that will have you smiling.

Follow the link on our home page to the Nautilus web site or ring 1300 780 533