Angling Report of the Southern Tasmanian Licensed Anglers Association

ridges ros. Since 1858

Sage – Lamson – Riverworks Dr. Slick – C&F – Redington Veniard – Whiting – Wapsi

& a huge fly tying range

Mail/Phone orders welcome

71 Bathurst St, Hobart, Tasmania 7000 Phone 03 6234 3791 Fax 03 6234 4062

“Hobart’s fly fishing specialist for over 100 years”

1

Index Editorial ............................................................................. 2 Inland Fisheries Service ................................................... 3 

Minister’s Report on Inland Fisheries 2009-10 .............. 3 From the Director ............................................................ 5 

Hydro Tasmania Report ................................................. 10 Rehabilitation for the Lagoon of Islands ...................... 10 

MAST Report .................................................................. 12 Anglers Alliance Tasmania (AAT) Report ................... 14 IFAC Report - Reflections Season 2009-10 .................. 16 STLAA Reports ............................................................... 17 

STLAA Executive ......................................................... 17 STLAA President’s Report ........................................... 18 Club Reports ................................................................. 21 

Australian Polish Anglers Club ................................ 21 Bothwell Angling Club ............................................. 22 Bridgewater Anglers Association ............................. 24 Clarence Licensed Anglers Club .............................. 26 Huon Licensed Anglers Association ......................... 28 Kingborough Anglers Association ............................ 30 Lake Pedder Anglers Club ........................................ 31 Maydena Anglers Club ............................................. 32 New Norfolk Licensed Anglers Association ............ 33 

Features & Special Reports ............................................ 35 The Derwent River – Season 2009-10 .......................... 35 The 18th Annual Eddie Wigston Memorial ................... 37 Summer Streams ........................................................... 38 Season Highlights 2009-10 ........................................... 43 NNLAA Derwent River Interclub Challenge 2009-10 . 45 Bridgewater Anglers in the Bernes Valley ................... 47 Where are they now? .................................................... 51 Huon Anglers Club – Casting Competition 2010 ......... 52 A New Friend – A True Tale ........................................ 53 Season 2009-2010 Photo Gallery .................................. 54 

Our Angling History ....................................................... 72 The Creation of Our Man Made Lakes - Images .......... 72 

Trout 2010 Tasmanian Angling Report of the Southern Tasmanian Licensed Anglers Association is published annually by the Association and it’s affiliated Clubs.

Cover Photo: Beautiful shape & markings of a superbly conditioned 1.46 kg Woods Lake Brown Trout.

Photo – Justin Causby

Report Committee: Terry Byard Bridgewater Anglers Ph 0429 977 185 Norm Cribbin Clarence Licensed Anglers Ph 0408 144 587 Don Emery Bothwell Anglers Ph 0429 344 231 Laurie Harrison Lake Pedder Anglers Ph 0428 626 370 Louis Molnar Bridgewater Anglers Ass. Ph 0419 309 932 Neil Pinkard Clarence Licensed Anglers Ph 0427 346 245

2

Editorial

eason 2009-2010 saw the welcome return of significant rainfall across

the catchments of our fisheries. Slowly the water levels rose, inundating the barren and parched soil. The life giving water soon had the aquatic plants recolonising the margins as we anglers waited for the fish to return to the shallows. As summer approached there was anticipation that the Mayfly would return and all would be back to as it was before the extended dry period of the past serval years. This was the case in some waters and it was truly amazing to see how quickly nature can restore the habitat ravaged by years of drought. There were other waters that did not far so well. Yes the water and aquatic plants returned but the fish did not, at least not to the shallows. These waters, lacking any significant quantities of aquatic invertebrates or terrestrial insects after the drought, yielded fish in poor condition from the lake margins. However the fish in these waters soon realised that the food was located out in the middle of the lake and down deep. Those anglers that adapted to the changed conditions soon found fish and fish in good condition. It is hoped that our fishery will receive good spring rains as season 2010-2011 commences, thus maintaining lake and river levels. The aquatic plants, invertebrates and terrestrial insects should also be expected to be more plentiful this season given good rain and stable water levels.

As anglers the secret is to be adaptive to the changing conditions. Think where, how and on what are the fish going to feed. Answer these questions and you will find fish. As in past years special thanks must go to the Report Committee and Club Delegates who have spent many hours arranging advertising sponsors, following up on reports and collecting the articles that appear within Trout 2010. I would also ask you to acknowledge our advertising sponsors, for without their support it would not be possible to continue to publish this annual report. So next time you are making use of any of our sponsor’s services, take time to thank them and mention that you saw their advertisement in the Trout 2010 book. Norm Cribbin - Editor

S

3

Inland Fisheries Service Minister’s Report on Inland Fisheries 2009-10

am very pleased to once again take on the role of Minister responsible for

Inland Fisheries and to provide my report to the Southern Tasmania Licensed Anglers Association (STLAA) for the 2009-10 financial year. The overriding focus this year has been on water. This is not surprising given the pleasing volumes of rain that fell. Following- three very dry seasons, there was water everywhere. It gave anglers an unprecedented selection of fishing options, heralding the return of some fisheries that were almost on the brink of non-existence. Favourable fishing reports continued throughout the season, and for many anglers, including myself, this was one of the best on record. Raised water levels also raised the hopes of both anglers and irrigators. As the resource became more abundant, some of the tension eased surrounding future irrigation developments and minimum flows. Despite this though, and the general attitude of celebration regarding the improved prospects for the fishery, the Inland Fisheries Advisory Council continued to pursue the need for balance in the state's use and management of its freshwater resource. Many of the high level matters that relate to inland fisheries at a State Government level, such as this, are discussed at the regular IFAC meetings, which are an important vehicle for my consultation and advice. As STLAA members would be aware, concerns were raised last year by IFAC with the previous Minister, David Llewellyn, regarding the impact of proposed irrigation developments on inland fisheries. As a result, my former

colleague established a Special Working Group which includes representation from recreational anglers to provide a mechanism for consultation on the impacts of proposed irrigation schemes. I look forward to receiving input from the group in the future on overall water management planning issues. Water management plans were also on the agenda this year. A good deal of emphasis is being placed on the water management plans as the primary mechanism for achieving balanced water use on a catchment basis. The plans will be a major focus in the future and there will be opportunities for recreational anglers, through the Special Working Group or through public consultation processes, to comment on and provide input into the development and review of these plans. In relation to matters of fish and stocking, I am delighted with the approach of the Inland Fisheries Service in building even stronger relations with the commercial fishery this year. It has enabled the Service to rely on the small number of commercial hatcheries that operate within the State for donations of fish as well as assistance with growing stock and provision of other support. From an angler's perspective, it has meant that we are well looked after particularly with the release of large and trophy size domestic trout and salmon into fisheries designated 'popular waters'. Another fish species, carp, caused concerns this year for fisheries management. Favourable environmental conditions last year led to limited spawning and successful recruitment of

I

4

juvenile carp in Lake Sorell. This was a major set-back for the Service's carp team which was close to achieving its long term goal of eradicating the pest fish from Tasmanian waters. In response to the issue, the Government set aside an additional $400,000 in the 2010-11 State Budget for carp control. Despite the recent infestation, the carp program at Lakes Crescent and Sorell has achieved excellent results over the past 15 years. During this time, carp have been successfully contained to the two lakes and the populations targeted with innovative monitoring technology. It is with a degree of significance and certainly delight therefore, that I mention that the population of carp in Lake Crescent was successfully eradicated this year. Financially, the Service has made a commendable effort to improve its business approach and gain greater control of its destiny. This year, licence sales were the highest recorded in nearly ten years, which is a positive reflection on the business operated by the Service and bodes well for its long-term sustainability. Finally, it is with sadness that I mention the passing of Les Monson, a great fisherman, wise councillor and legendary fellow. Les was the IFAC member representing the interests of anglers in the North West of the State when he died. Prior to IFAC, he served as an Associate Commissioner before the Inland Fisheries Commission became the Service in 1998. Les was a long-standing supporter of the Inland Fisheries, providing many hours of input into the fishery management over many years, and this cannot be easily measured. However, there is no doubt about the significance of the contribution he made to the fishery or

the number of lives that Les enriched with his passion for it. I look forward to providing a positive report on the fishery at the end of the next financial year. Enjoy your fishing! Yours sincerely

Bryan Green MP Minister for Primary Industries & Water

5

From the Director

his year, the Tasmanian inland fishery saw a welcome return to

more average rainfall patterns resulting in higher water levels and flows in most areas. The Service has continued to strengthen its operations and has delivered once again a host of achievements during the past year. I am pleased to provide information on this progress in the following report. Sustainable Fisheries Management Following three very dry years, the State received well above average winter rainfall and recorded one of the wettest periods for many years. Water levels rose dramatically at inland waters throughout the State at the start of the season, flooding rivers and spilling dams in spring, and they persisted into the summer months. The inundation of freshwater was vital for the sustainable management of the fishery in a number of important ways. In a general sense, the abundant flows dramatically increased the quality and quantity of fish habitat, creating extensive backwaters and fertile feeding grounds, and greatly improving the ecological sustainability of wild and native fish stocks at many inland waters. More particularly, the wet season enabled the recovery and return of several regionally important fisheries in the State’s South and East which had suffered significantly from low water levels due to the ongoing drought conditions in recent years. Water levels at Craigbourne Dam, Tooms Lake, Lake Leake and Lake Dulverton increased dramatically at the start of the season. The Service boosted fish stocks immediately to help rejuvenate the fisheries and continued to prioritise stocking at these waters throughout the season as the good conditions continued.

Another result of the wet season was the improved protection of important Central Highlands waters, from environmental stress due to persistent low water levels and also from angling pressure. The threat to the fisheries at Arthurs, Woods and Great Lake from continued low water levels was alleviated but in addition, these waters, along with other premium Highland waters such as Little Pine and Penstock lagoons, had an opportunity to recover from the intense angling pressure received over recent seasons. The increased availability of attractive alternative fishing locations, meant that angling effort could be spread more evenly across the State, enhancing the sustainability of the fishery as a whole. Licence Sales and Marketing The improvements to the fishery as a result of the wet conditions, in particular the increased availability of freshwater fishing options, is the most likely reasons for an increase in angling licence sales. At the time of writing, total licence sales for the 2009-10 season had risen to 28,902 which is the highest since 1998-99 when 29,690 licences were sold. This represents a 2.7% increase compared with the total number sold in the previous season. Of most importance, was a 2.7% rise in the sale of full season licences which was driven primarily by a 2.3% rise in full season licence sales to Tasmanian anglers reaching a total this season of 20,966. This outcome is pleasing given that a key aim of the Service in the past two years has been to increase the sale of full season licences with a particular emphasis on the local market. Within the category of Tasmanian full season licence sales, the most significant rises were seen amongst senior licence

T

6

sales, which were up by 6.5% compared with the previous year to a total of 888, and pensioner licences, which rose by 3.2% to 5,662. Adult licence sales increased by 1.8% to 13,228 and juvenile licences sales maintained a lesser increase of 1.1% to reach a total of 1,188. The trend of increased full season licence sales to seniors and pensioners is likely to be a reflection of the aging angling market in Tasmania based on the State’s aging population base. Amongst short term licence sales, there was a significant shift away from the 7 Day and 28 Day licences which dropped by 21.9% and 16.7%, respectively to totals of 476 and 912. The sale of 48 Hour licences however, increased dramatically in comparison, rising 64.9% to a total of 2,668. This trend away from the 7 Day and 28 Day licences towards the 48 Hour licence indicates that the two day licence is better suited to the needs of the short term licence buyer. The trend was significant amongst Tasmanian anglers and indicates that the two day licence fulfil its intended purpose of providing for a spontaneous weekend fishing trip. The number of licences sold to anglers from interstate and overseas increased in 2009-10 as did Tasmanian licences sales. Twenty-five more licences were sold to anglers from overseas, totalling 322 international anglers and there were 65 more licences sold to interstate anglers bringing this total for the year to 5,855. Victorian anglers accounted for the majority of interstate licence sales, followed by NSW and Queensland. The Service continued to target full season licence holders this year through the annual licence renewal mail-out. This year, the renewal form included a 2 Day Novice Licence for the full season licence holder to give-away for a free 48 Hour licence. From 22,248 renewals sent

to 2008-09 full season licence holders, 1,159 Novice licences were used during the season. For the second year in a row, full season licence holders were also offered free entry to the Salmon Ponds during the season. Angler Access and Infrastructure The Angler Access program covers a range of activities from negotiating access agreements with landholders to infrastructure development, as well as the production and distribution of angler access information brochures. On-ground works include the installation of directional and interpretive signage, fence stiles, foot bridges and steps, parking, fencing and off stream stock watering, willow removal and associated environmental works. Signage and pedestrian gates were installed to define foot access for anglers to the sheltered western shore of Huntsman Lake. Tourism information panels incorporating general information for visitors and specific information on recreational fishing were installed this year at Bronte Village and Bothwell. Stock exclusion fencing was installed at Bronte Lagoon, angler access signage and associated infrastructure was completed at Bradys Lake, and an interpretation and information project for the Western Lakes is well underway. Several more angler access brochures were produced this year bringing the total number of these popular brochures to 21 covering 30 individual waters. The brochures are distributed through licence agents throughout Tasmania and at selected tackle stores in Victoria and New South Wales, and are also available via the IFS and AAT websites. Specific angler access projects were completed for the River Leven and North Esk River, and one commenced for the Meander River. Further

7

improvements to the Macquarie River access project were also completed including extensive willow removal at Woolmers Bridge in association with NRM North and Mersey NRM Services. Works were also undertaken to improve the condition of vehicle access at several waters during the year. Prior to the start of the 2009-10 season, the Four Springs Lake road, Fisheries Lane at Brumbys Creek, and the Lake Echo access road to Large Bay were improved, and after the season’s close, the Woods Lake road was upgraded. The Service also commissioned work during the Summer to protect the dam wall at Four Springs Lake against erosion, particularly during periods of high water levels. Carp Program At the end of the 2008-09 season, the carp program appeared to be in the best position to eradicate carp from Tasmania since the program began in 1995. Not only had the pest fish outbreak been successfully contained to Lakes Sorell and Crescent for nearly 15 years but around 10,600 carp had been captured, significantly reducing the pest fish population at both lakes. However, rising water levels combined with warmer temperatures in Spring and Summer produced exceptional environmental conditions for carp spawning. Despite specific strategies to prevent its occurrence, including the installation of extensive barrier fencing across ideal spawning habitat and continuous monitoring of tracker fish by the carp team, some spawning inevitably occurred in Lake Sorell. This led to an outbreak of juvenile fish and a spike in the population of carp in Lake Sorell, which was a major set-back for the carp team. The situation at Lake Crescent, meanwhile, was very positive. After

intense monitoring of the carp population, no female carp were captured and the remaining male ‘tracker’ fish were removed. The significance of this is that carp have been eradicated at Lake Crescent, which indicates the success of the innovative control methods employed by the Service. Hatchery and Stocking Program This was the third year of operation of the Service’s newly constructed hatchery, an environmentally-friendly closed system recirculation hatchery, at the New Norfolk headquarters. The investment has begun to pay real dividends by enabling the Service to increase its production of higher quality wild fish stocks of brown, rainbow and brook trout, which are used to supplement the State’s inland recreational fishery. Steady improvements have been made to the facility since it began operating in August 2007. This year, changes were made to the egg incubator room involving the use and storage of water carried from the Central Highlands to reduce egg mortality. Improvements were also made to the lighting in the facility to benefit both fish growth rates and energy cost savings. The annual stocking program, which is based on the Tasmanian Inland Recreational Fishery Management Plan 2008-18, is aimed at providing a diverse range of fishery types and fishing experiences to meet the demands of the angling market. Stocking is undertaken for strategic purposes to develop or maintain specific fisheries, and to supplement naturally occurring trout populations. Periodic stocking is more opportunistic and aimed at maintaining a number of popular ‘put and take’ fisheries.

8

This year intensive stocking was undertaken with the aim of reinvigorating a number of fisheries that had suffered significantly during recent years due to the continuing drought conditions. Craigbourne Dam, Tooms Lake, Lake Leake and Lake Dulverton received priority stocking by the Service. The fish stock came from a variety of sources including surplus brood and production stock from Springfield and Sevrup Fisheries, from the University of Tasmania’s School of Aquaculture in Launceston as well as wild stock trout fry and adult trout from the Service’s hatchery at New Norfolk and the Salmon Ponds. Over the Spring and Summer period, the Service also continued its stocking program at popular waters in other regions of the State to stimulate interest and satisfy anglers seeking larger catchable fish. These waters, like those in the south eastern region, had also experienced increased water levels, so the stockings were well timed and much appreciated by local anglers. These waters included Four Springs Lake, Brushy Lagoon and Curries River Reservoir in the North, Lake Barrington in the North West, Bradys Lake in the southern central region, and Lake Meadowbank in the South. The Service also stocked a number of smaller waters for junior angling, fishing club and other events during the season, and continued to fulfill its annual stocking program at less popular and/or more remote waters around the State that require periodic stocking to supplement fish stocks. Compliance Anecdotal reports from Inland Fisheries Inspectors indicated that most anglers exhibited positive behaviour and attitudes throughout the season, and there was a general atmosphere of

celebration regarding the rain-induced improvements to the fishery. However it was also noted that there was a slight increase in the number of infringements, mostly relating to anglers fishing without a licence or possessing an assembled rod when unlicensed. Inland Fisheries Inspectors worked in league with Tasmania Police, and Parks and Wildlife Service to patrol remote areas and make arrests regarding illegal fishing activities. The strategy of combining forces at an operational level within the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment has also been progressed this year through the formation of an agency enforcement committee. Several important reports were received from members of the public and this timely information enabled offenders to be apprehended, charges to be laid and successful prosecutions to be achieved. Of particular note were the successful prosecutions for illegal whitebait fishing in the North West. These included the sentencing of a repeat offender who was fined $3,500 for taking whitebait from a closed water, namely Deep Creek, and two other whitebait poachers in the Forth River who were fined a total of $2,040 for possessing more than the legal amount of whitebait and fishing without a licence. Also, as a result of the swift reporting by a member of the public detailing the suspicious behaviour of a person at an inland water in the North West, two giant freshwater crayfish were saved and released. The alleged offender, who was found in possession of the live crayfish, was interviewed for the purpose of prosecution. Finally, timely information was received by Inland Fisheries inspectors that a group of fisherman were in possession of

9

yabbies and mussels at Great Lake in August. This tip-off enabled the inspectors to immediately investigate the case and interview the alleged offenders, as well as ensure that the area was de-contaminated to prevent an introduction of the pest species at Great Lake. As a result of the investigation, the offender, a visiting angler from NSW pleaded guilty to charges of importing fish without authority, conveying controlled fish and to possessing fish near inland waters without authority, under the Inland Fisheries Act 1995. He was fined $6,000. Trout Weekend The Service hosted the Trout Weekend at Liawenee in May 2010 with the invaluable support of angling clubs, Fishcare Volunteers and local fishing businesses and community interest groups. Amongst the clubs, there was the provision of fishing displays, demonstrations, food stalls and help with logistics, which have been ongoing for a number of years at this event. The Devonport Fly Fishers Club organised a fly tying display and demonstration with volunteers from the Fly Fishers Club of Tasmania, North West Fly Tyers Club, Corralinn Fly Fishing and Casting Association, and the Tasmanian Fly Tyers Club. The Clarence Licensed Anglers Club ran a food stall as did the Longford Angling Club who also assisted with visitor parking control. Anglers Alliance Tasmania and the Tasmanian Trout Expo also provided displays. The Trout Weekend event at Liawenee has become a tradition amongst anglers and the angling community, and a celebration of Tasmania’s unique

angling heritage, the State’s renowned inland recreational fishery and the famous wild brown trout. The event centres on the harvesting of eggs from wild brown trout on their annual spawning migration in the Central Highland lakes and rivers, an activity that has continued since trout were first introduced in 1864. The involvement of anglers along with a keen public interest, are part of this unique angling tradition in Tasmania. John Diggle Director of Inland Fisheries

10

Hydro Tasmania Report Rehabilitation for the Lagoon of Islands

estled amongst dolerite hills in Tasmania’s Central Highlands is

the unique Lagoon of Islands. Approximately three kilometres west of Woods Lake and 6 km south of Arthurs Lake, as the crow flies, the lagoon has been through some challenging times. Many anglers will remember the 1960’s when the former Hydro Electric Commission transformed a wetland ecosystem, a bird sanctuary of floating islands, to an irrigation supply dam for users along the Ouse River. The Inlands Fisheries Commission established a recreational fishery and trout hatchery at the lagoon. Damming the wetland in 1964 inundated the floating islands. The burning of remaining island vegetation followed. However, the waters had been stocked with rainbow and brown trout and the fishery became a popular haunt. As had been predicted it became evident that water yield from the lagoon was insufficient to supply irrigators downstream. A plan was hatched to harness the waters of nearby creeks to increase the capacity of the lagoon. In 1984 Ripple Creek Canal was commissioned deviating waters originally flowing to the Shannon and Lake Rivers into the lagoon. This action triggered the deterioration in water quality condition in the lagoon that has lasted to this day. The fish started to reflect the poor health of the lagoon and the value of the fishery diminished. Irrigators downstream complained that the water was unfit for use. In response the HEC and IFC monitored and undertook research on the waterway. Targeted water level management actions aimed at increasing

vegetation growth within the lagoon provided some short lived respite. However, as the alga bloomed exponentially, water user concerns became increasingly vocal.

N

11

By 2006 it was clear that the lagoon could no longer be used as a water supply for irrigators and the fishery was non existent. After much discussion and debate a new plan was hatched. Hydro Tasmania in collaboration with key stakeholders started investigating opportunities for alternative water storages along the Shannon and Ouse Rivers that would decrease the need to retain the lagoon within the water supply system.

Lagoon of Island looking north Establishment of alternate water supply for irrigators and other users along the Ouse River is significant for the Lagoon of Islands as it allows the lagoon to be removed as part of the water supply system and rehabilitated to a more natural wetland state. Rehabilitation entails removing imposed infrastructure by decommissioning Ripple Creek Canal and breaching the dam wall, returning water levels to near original levels, encouraging vegetation regrowth and allowing nature to take its course. This process is expected, over time, to reduce the algal bloom to acceptable levels and to facilitate the recovery of this unique wetland. In May 2010 the first step was taken towards rehabilitation. Creeks flowing into Ripple Creek Canal were deviated back to their natural course and very little water now flows into the lagoon. Breaching the dam wall will be the next

momentous step, the timing of which is still to be determined.

Sampling in progress So for the fishers who remember the good old days of prime rainbow fishing at the Lagoon of Islands and who have seen the deterioration of this waterway, it is hoped that the lagoons slow recovery to a more natural wetland state will provide you with an interesting stop over when visiting the Central Highlands. For those who remember the days of ecological and bird watching wonder, watch this lagoon with interest. With its wetland structure still intact, and vegetation communities waiting to respond to low water levels, the Lagoon of Islands recovery may be slow but is on the right trajectory.

Some of the remnant islands Hydro Tasmania is facing its past, and aiming its future at more sustainable water resource management. Alison Howman - Aquatic Environment Program Manager

12

MAST Report

he past year saw water levels that were higher than for quite a few

years. Arthurs Lake which had been at depressed levels was much higher and apart from the last few weeks of the season the ramps were all fully operational. Hopefully reasonable winter rains will see levels maintained and the drought become just a distant memory. MAST, Hydro Tasmania and IFS released a long term strategy for boating facilities on inland waters in the autumn of 2010. This attracted a good deal of comment from anglers which was very much appreciated. Our three organisations intend rolling out this program over the next few years. For starters in the coming year MAST intends to upgrade the boat ramp at Four Springs Lake to a dual lane facility and to replace the walkway with a more user friendly structure. MAST and Hydro Tasmania are also intending to fund a $60,000 upgrade to the Dam Wall boat ramp at Arthurs Lake including an extension to the rock groyne, installing a navigation light and providing a walkway. In anticipation of higher lake levels MAST is intending to extend the four concrete boat ramps at Cramps Bay, Tods Corner, Swan Bay and Brandum Bay. Over the past few years we have received a number of submissions to upgrade the ramp at the Camping Ground at Lake Burbury. It had been our intention this year to spend a further $80,000 on upgrading this facility, again in conjunction with Hydro Tasmania. However, the water levels in Lake Burbury have not allowed this project to go ahead and it is likely that this will have to be deferred for a while yet.

On a more sombre note there were four boating fatalities in the past boating season. Fortunately none were in inland waters. One issue that does give MAST concern is the use of inflatable life jackets. They are an excellent product, I own four (4) myself, but there have been fatalities this year where the jacket for reasons yet to be determined has not opened. Inflatable life jackets require regular servicing and I would urge all of you to consider doing this during this winter. You can either take your jacket

T

13

to a chandler or direct to Stormy Australia in Mornington. It’s not just Stormy jackets that can be serviced. Alternatively you can test the jacket yourself following the advice in Boatwise, our boating magazine that is mailed to every holder of a boat licence or look at the special segment on our website www.mast.tas.gov.au on how to look after your inflatable jacket. You will find this segment on our video website MAST TV. If you go to our home page and then click on the lower centre panel you will find a range of new video segments about boating. We also have a regular news update so that you can keep abreast of what MAST is doing around the State. We hope that these video segments will make the website much more informative about all aspects of boating safety

MAST has continued with its program of education nights around the State and in particular has held safety and flare demonstrations at a wide range of centres which have been very successful and well attended by both fresh and saltwater anglers. We have found that all boaters carry safety equipment but we there are quite a few who are not completely sure how to use or maintain it. Improving our knowledge of boating safety equipment will continue to be a focus of our safety initiatives in the coming year. MAST has also met with a number of freshwater angling clubs this Autumn to talk about boating safety. MAST is happy to conduct more displays or to meet with clubs if you would like us to attend one of your regular meetings. Colin Finch

Peter Finch 4X4 PARTS SALES SERVICE

HOBART

Peter Bonavia Phone: 6273 3480

1/481 Main Road, GLENORCHY Mobile: 0419 337 619

W/Shop Mb: 0407 325 376 Fax: 6273 3484

SOMERSET Leigh Walters

Phone: 6435 1884 24 Wragg Street, SOMERSET

Mobile: 0408 178 361 Fax: 6435 2696

www.peterfinch4wd.com.au

14

Anglers Alliance Tasmania (AAT) Report

he implementation phases of Tasmania’s Recreational Fishing

Development Plan (RFDP) together with my own involvement with AAT will have drawn to a close by the time the STLAA annual report is published. I take this opportunity to thank the STLAA and its Committee for the stoic support given to AAT over the last years and particularly for the efforts of Vice Chair Terry Byard on behalf of all anglers. The RFDP has achieved much since its general acceptance working with the IFS to achieve major changes to the fishery and its management. AAT would not presume to claim the credit for all these changes but the plan and the partnerships that it has created have acted as the major motivating catalyst to enable the IFS to achieve many of its goals. I would accept that the implementation of the RFDP has perhaps sometimes made the core purposes of AAT unclear resulting in some membership dissatisfaction and I am happy to accept responsibility for this. It is nevertheless a matter of concern that some personal views are considered before the good of all. However at the outset of AAT a number of goals were set using the RFDP including: • Solid and financially secure IFS to

remain as a separate statutory body. • A marketing plan to increase visiting

angler participation to assist stagnant license sales.

• The implementation of an Angler Access programme (special thanks to Neil Morrow)

• An angler insurance scheme

• A government network through which to guide change and create partnerships.

• A junior Angler Programme. • Improved licensing systems • Greater angler communication • Creation of a recreational fishing

brand. The above together with many other issues have been achieved and I cannot help but wonder how dissatisfaction amongst some anglers has impacted on AAT as a membership body and particularly when it could be seen that the RFDP was drawing to a conclusion. In the face of the major changes achieved over recent years it is extraordinary that the RFDP is receiving criticism rather than being the catalyst of change and one has to wonder how many of AAT’s critics have actually read the demand side plan for recreational fishing and I warrant very few indeed! The marketing plan within the RFDP has many long term goals which will now be overseen by the IFS with the assistance of the brand creation “Fishing Tasmania” and the other very considerable tools that are left behind for their use through the implementation of the RFDP in future years. My involvement of some 6 years has now come to a close and I am proud of the progress that has been achieved through the many partnerships that AAT has created. I would accept that the enormity of the tasks undertaken and the need to take a firm hand may not have suited all anglers who see the fishery as an angler possession rather than a resource belonging to all Tasmanian’s.

T

15

Now that the firm hand has stepped down I would urge all anglers to unite in AAT and provide a collective view to the IFS and Governments as a whole. Failure to retain a united view and voice will result in a return to divided factions resulting in no individual or single

body’s opinions being accepted by those charged with administering this State’s exceptional fishery. Richard C. Dax (Consultant Executive Officer)

16

IFAC Report - Reflections Season 2009-10

ortunately the opening of the 2009-10 fishing season saw many of the

rivers across the state in flood and a number of Hydro storages returning to healthy levels. Most areas of the state received good winter rain falls and a number of dams and Hydro storages were spilling with good fishing reports from around the State. The Inland Advisory Council held four meetings during the year around the State: 12th August 2009 at IFS offices at New Norfolk, 20th November 2009 in Launceston, 26th March 2010 at New Norfolk, and 21st July 2010 at Latrobe. Many issues were considered by the council during the year including stocking levels of various waters, the management of the state’s bream fishery, native fish management, the development of water management plans, carp eradication plans, access issues, boating infrastructure plans, and managing the lakes for recreational uses. Clearly the main issues during the year were water quality and the development of water management plans around the state. A number of reports were given to the council from the Irrigation Working Group that had been established by the Minister Llewellyn to provide angler input into the various irrigation projects throughout the state. Meetings were held with the Minister and it was agreed that there was a need to change the focus of the working group away from dealing with the various irrigation schemes to

focus on the development of river and catchment management plans that recognise the interests of all stakeholders. This agreement has seen recent invitations from the Department of Primary Industry, Water and the Environment for recreational user input into the development of water management plans. Sadly, earlier this year we lost one of our longest serving members, Les Monson. Les had been a member of IFAC since its inception and before that he was a commissioner of the Inland Fisheries Commission. He had given a lifetime of service to the management of inland fisheries in Tasmania and his knowledge and contribution will be greatly missed. The result of the state election in March saw the retirement of Minister David Llewellyn and the appointment of Minister Bryan Green, who is no stranger to the portfolio. We wish David Llewellyn all the best in his new life and look forward to working with our new minister. Minister Green attended our July meeting and it was refreshing to hear the Minister’s enthusiasm and positive attitude about the issues facing the fishery. At the Minister’s invitation, one of our challenges for the next year will be to review the role and operation of the Inland Fisheries Advisory Council. John Cleary - Chairman Inland Fisheries Advisory Council

F

17

STLAA Reports STLAA Executive

OFFICE BEARERS 2009-2010

POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 697 Moonah 7009

PATRON: Mr Bob Ward

PRESIDENT: Mr Norm Cribbin VICE PRESIDENT: Laurie Harrison

SECRETARY: Mr Louis Molnar

HONORARY TREASURER: Mr Neil Pinkard

HONORARY HISTORIAN: Mr Ray Aitchison

AAT DELEGATES: Mr Norm Cribbin, Mr Terry Byard

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: Messers Norm Cribbin, Louis Molnar, Neil Pinkard, Laurie Harrison and Don Emery

CLUB DELEGATES:

Australian Polish Luke Stefankowski, Anthony Young Bothwell Anglers Don Emery, Shane Jones, Mark Whittaker Bridgewater Anglers Terry Byard, Louis Molnar Clarence Licensed Anglers Neil Pinkard, Charlie Harris Huon Anglers Rob Chandler, David Roberts Kingborough Anglers Association Steve Long Lake Pedder Anglers Laurie Harrison Maydena Anglers Club Bill Cornelius New Norfolk Licensed Anglers Duncan Hughes, Justin Causby

LIFE MEMBERS:

E.T. Smith 1970 A. Maclaine 1979 C. Smith 1983 R. Cairns 1983 K. Morley 1983 R. Ryder 1983

C. Bourke 1985 L. Ward 1987 B. Creed 1992 P. Lowe 1992 R. Aitchison 1995 K. Jones 1999

D. Cranfield 1999 R. Bradshaw 2002 T. Byard 2004 L. Harrison 2008 K. Hansson 2008 P Wood 2009

CERTIFICATE FOR SERVICES TO ANGLING AWARDS:

R. Bradshaw 2000 P. Wood 2000 L. Datlen 2000 K. Hanson 2000 W. Knight 2000 N. Cribbin 2001 B. Sherriff 2001 D. Triffitt 2001 T. Sutton 2001 W. Seabrook 2002 N. Pinkard 2002 F. Johnson 2002

J. Bluett 2003 B. Jordan 2004 E. Aitchison 2004 K. Walker 2004 B. Johnston 2004 M. Sherriff 2004 R. Walker 2004 D. Cranfield 2004 D. Driver 2005 P. Richards 2005 K. Russell 2005 M. Russell 2005

H. Chivers 2005 M. Pinkard 2006 R. Aitchison 2006 S. Granger 2007 B. Andrew 2007 J. Barratt 2007 B. Barratt 2007 M. Harrison 2008 C. Harris 2009 J. Groves 2009 K. Cooper 2009

18

STLAA President’s Report

t is with much pleasure that I present the President’s Report for the 2009/10

angling season. The past year continues to see the association remaining effective and relevant to member clubs. This success has largely come from ensuring that the association listens to and adapts to the changing needs of the clubs and their members. Change in the level of direct involvement required by member clubs to address issues affecting our fishery has been the most significant. Anglers Alliance Tasmania (AAT), with representative input and support from the association and other angling bodies, respond to issues affecting our fishery. This change has resulted in more time now being available for angling and social interaction between clubs, whilst knowing that clubs will be kept informed of issues. Not withstanding this more relaxed posture, clubs stand ready to unite, when required, to protect our fishery. Unfortunately our fishery once again seems to be under attack from a number of fronts, these being the resurgence of the European Carp at Lake Sorell, the continued threat of biological pests such as Didymo and real and emerging threat to sustainable lake levels by irrigation abstraction and uncapped water rights. The IFS reported in early 2010 that despite the Carp Management Team’s intensive efforts to prevent the remaining adult carp in Lake Sorell from spawning in late 2009, it became apparent just prior to Christmas that some carp had been successful. An intensive treatment operation was put in place to remove as many juvenile carp as possible whilst they still inhabited shallow vegetation areas before dispersing into deeper water. Rotenone, a derris based fish poison, was used to kill over 14,000 fish during a 6 week

period. Early indications suggest that the IFS may have already removed up to two thirds of this cohort. It has been pleasing to see our local AQIS personnel are being proactive in spreading the message to anglers of the risks of introduced pest species to our waterways. Sabatino Cesile-Communications Officer (Quarantine Services) has been promoting Quarantine Awareness and Didymo prevention activities at a number of Agricultural Shows including AGFEST and at the IFS Open Weekend at Liawenee. Unfortunately he has been advised by some returning anglers that they have not being checked if they are carrying used fishing gear and waders back into Australia at Sydney or Melbourne Customs. I urge all anglers to ensure that they get their gear inspected and cleared on return to Australia, we do not want to see these unwanted pests in our water ways and fisheries. Irrigation abstraction and uncapped water rights remains our most significant issue at this present time. Terry Byard continues his position within the executive of Anglers Alliance Tasmania (AAT) and currently represents AAT, and the association by affiliation, on the Irrigation Development Board Advisory Committee. Terry regularly reports back to the association executive and delegates at our monthly meetings. Many issues remain to be resolved regarding the sustainability, impact to ecological values of our fisheries and the consequential effects to the angling experience, of the currently proposed irrigation schemes. On a more pleasing note, a highlight of the year was the presentation of two (2) Life Memberships to the association at the last AGM. The first was to Kevin

I

19

Hansson of the Bridgewater Anglers Club for his long association with the STLAA and a lifetime connected with angling. His angling career has included being his club’s secretary for the years 1978-1981 and club president from 1989-1993. Kevin was awarded life membership of his club in 1987. He has been a club delegate to the STLAA and FACT and in 1988, was a controller at the World Flyfishing Championships and the Commonwealth fishing day at London Lakes. Life Membership recognition was also given to Laurie Harrison of Lake Pedder Anglers Club. Laurie has been on the committee of his club for more than 14 years and has been an active clubman and president. He is involved with Camp Quality, ensuring that those younger children get the opportunity to have a go at fishing regardless of their disabilities. This has culminated in the very successful “Back to Pedder” angling competition where all monies raised are donated to charity. Laurie continues his involvement in the STLAA and is currently the association’s Vice President. Despite the torrential rain that resulted in the rescheduling of the Family Day BBQ to a later date and revised venue, the event proved again to be highly successful and well attended. A review of the Family Day BBQ found that the return to the Salmon Ponds during the summer months should be continued. I thank the members for their support of the association’s social function. I have recently being reviewing some of the past association angling reports. The earliest copy that I have is for Season 1919-1920. This was a little document and comprised just 8 pages, however by season 1959-60 the Annual Report had grown to 92 pages and included many advertising sponsors. In reviewing the

1959-60 report I found many similarities to the association’s current angling report “Trout”. It contained club reports, feature articles and reports from the “New Inland Fisheries Commission”. It is pleasing to see that the association has been able to maintain the unbroken chain of reports to the present day. The preparation and production of the “Trout” angling report continues be a feature of the association and I would like to acknowledge the contributions made by members, delegates and advertising sponsors. Without the combined support of all involved there would be no angling report. On the fishing front, it was pleasing to see water levels on the rise after more than 3 years of drought conditions. It is hoped that a return to more average weather patterns will continue to restore the water levels to our many and varied fisheries as we look forward to season 2010-2011. In closing I would like to thank the association Secretary, Louis Molnar, for his dedication and diligence in dealing with the varied association matters that have arisen throughout the past 12 months. Thank you also to Laurie Harrison who has ably stepped in as Vice President when work has kept me from attending to STLAA duties. Thanks must also go to Neil Pinkard, the association Treasurer for ensuring we are always on a sound financial footing. A special thanks also goes to our Patron Bob Ward and STLAA Historian Ray Aitchison for their continued commitment. Last but not least thank you to the delegates who attend the association meetings and provide that valuable conduit to and from the Clubs. Tight lines for the season ahead. Norm Cribbin – STLAA President

20

Bothwell Garage

Open 6.00 am – 8.00 pm 7 Days

Reg. Fire-arms Dealer Permits & Ammo Fishing Licences

Bait & Tackle BBQ Gas, Groceries, Videos

Auto Parts Newspapers & magazines

EFPOS & lots more

Proprietors: Geoff & Julie Herbert

Telephone: 6259 5599 Fax: 6259 4051

21

Club Reports Australian Polish Anglers Club

t’s been my first year as president after many years in the club as both a

junior and senior member, so I am proud to present this report of last season to you all. Over the course of last season I have noticed that there has been a change in the behaviour of the APAC club member, once a dawn to dusk fisherman, braving adverse and trying conditions for the elusive brown (or rainbow) trout, now has discovered the social aspect of it all. On many occasions last season, nearly all members attending a competition, could be found round the campfire at 10:00am or 11:00am or maybe 3:00pm, or maybe all those times, enjoying a quiet refreshment and a yarn to fellow members.

Boats have been taken to lakes and not put in the water, an expensive keychain perhaps? However, this behaviour has produced a lower number of fish landed this season, but, by far, doesn’t mean last season was a failure. I think it’s great to see families and kids heading up the lakes fishing and should be encouraged as they will form the future members of this club. That said, for those that put in the hours on the water, some great bags of fish were taken, with some nice specimens amongst them. That to me, outlines a great season for the club. Luke Stefankowski - President

Season Summary Location Entrants Fish Caught Total Average

Derwent River 1 16 13 9.72 kg 0.75 kg Derwent River 2 16 0 0.00 kg 0.00 kg Lake Binney 18 33 18.29 kg 0.56 kg Wayatinah Lagoon 18 19 7.73 kg 0.41 kg Arthurs Lake 21 97 63.01 kg 0.65 kg Lake Echo 1 10 14 7.22 kg 0.52 kg Lake Echo 2 13 23 13.68 kg 0.59 kg Lake Pedder 6 2 1.71 kg 0.86 kg Season Totals 116 201 117.35 kg 0. 58 kg Honour Roll: Heaviest Fish (SENIOR): Adrian Kniaz Heaviest Fish (LADIES): Beata Jurek Heaviest Fish (JUNIOR): Katie Blackwell Most Consistent Angler: Luke Stefankowski

I

President: Luke Stefankowski Secretary: Kristel Banaisik Treasurer: Rodney Haigh Postal Address: 486 Lachlan Rd Lachlan 7140 Contact: Ph 6261 3711 Meetings: 2nd Wednesday Monthly

22

Bothwell Angling Club

hope that all of you had some good trips and even better catches this past

season with a better season to come. I would sincerely like to thank all our Executive Office Bearers, Patron, Delegates, Weigh-in Stewards and all those who have attended meetings, competitions and helped out in many different ways when needed. Pam Jones remains as our Secretary (a job that not many will take on), Felicity Jones Treasurer, Don Emery – STLAA Delegate, Shayne Jones and Mark Whittaker as proxy STLAA Delegates and Andre Datlen as Vice President. A club is not a club without support such as this. Our Annual Dinner and Presentation Evening was held in July with an enjoyable night had by all our members, their families and our official guests. Members also attended and represented the club at the S.T.L.A.A. AGM & Dinner enjoying another good dinner and evening. A minute's silence was held for Patrick Branch who passed away this season. Patrick was a life member of the club and one of our weigh-in stewards and he was involved in the club for over 30 years, he will be sadly missed. We have had our usual competition weekends, most of these have had good nominations but with some quiet results. Over 30 members and their families enjoyed this years annual Fun Fish in February which was open to all waters with the family barbecue, weigh-in and drawing of the raffle and nomination prize ending this enjoyable day at the Bothwell Football Ground. We had 5 more senior members and 2 new junior members join for the season, this is good to see our membership grow and

hopefully see some new faces at our meetings and club activities. The clubs monthly meetings are held on every second Thursday, it would be good to see some new faces even if you can only attend some of the meetings, either to put forward your ideas to the club or find out what is happening at club and S.T.L.A.A. level. As a small club we receive correspondence from groups such as Angling Alliance, Central Highlands groups, IFS, Hydro, other clubs and drafts and plans from other groups with a vested interest in our waters. The club has replied and has had input into many issues. Come along and find out what is happening to our great fisheries. New faces and/or new members are always welcome. This year we again donated a book for Anzac Day. This is laid at the local Cenotaph and then goes to the Bothwell Area School library. A very special thank you must go to all our sponsors, without their continued support, some over many years, our events such as our presentation dinner would not be the success that it is. A list of these sponsors goes to all members and their support is greatly appreciated. Thank you to the Central Highlands Council for the use of the hall, club rooms and in kind support such as photocopying. A thank you also goes to all property owners who allow anglers to access some of the best fishing in the world. Congratulations to all our trophy winners, these were announced at our Dinner with some new faces receiving prizes, & good luck for the coming season. Leanne Datlen - President

I

President: Leanne Datlen Secretary: Pam Jones Treasurer: Felicity Jones P.O. Box 44 Bothwell 7030 Ph 03 6259 8373

23

‘T & M Mechanical Services’ New Norfolk Specialist for all your passenger & commercial vehicles, engine tuning, brake & clutch repairs, wheel alignment & balancing, parts sales, battery sales including Century & Island batteries, carpet cleaner hire service.

T & M MECHANICAL SERVICES

MENTION THIS ADD AND RECEIVE 10% DISCOUNT

Also specialising in Log Book Servicing, EFI diagnosis & fault code retrieval with the

latest Scanning equipment, Holden key coding & PIN Number retrieval

Call in and see Tony and Margaret for expert advice 26 THE AVENUE NEW NORFOLK TAS

Ph 03 6261 2244 Fax 03 6261 2255

TACC

TM

Member

MENTION THIS AD

24

Bridgewater Anglers Association

t is with much pleasure that I present the President's Report for 2009/10

angling year. Congratulations, this is our 75th AGM since the Club was reconstituted in 1936 and going strong ever since. Records indicate that a group of Anglers were alive and well in 1884 and going strong in the 1920s as seen by the STLAA Report which includes a section on the Bridgewater Club. Unfortunately the old Minute Books were destroyed in the Railway Station fire. At the time of the last AGM we had some rain but by late August and through September we had significant rainfall with a considerable flood in the Derwent by our August 29th and 30th competition such that parts of the New Norfolk Esplanade were under water. Sorell and Crescent were full by the end of November and many other lakes were either spilling or greatly replenished. This was very good but made fishing difficult particularly in the Derwent and other rivers as well as Arthurs Lakes. Unfortunately this rise in water allowed some carp to escape the barrier netting in Lake Sorell and by late December it was discovered that many had spawned. What a blow to the IFS carp team. Everyone was looking forward to an improvement in the water quality of Lake Sorell and more use of our Club facilities at Dago Point. The Club records with sadness the passing of John Taylor (5/9/1943-23/9/2009). John was a recent member and fished many competitions with Arthur Weigand and was one of the Club members involved in the six week free fishing course for fifty students from Bridgewater schools.

The Club had a very active programme during the season including seven General Meetings and eleven competition weekends or days. General Meetings were well attended (15 No. av.). Speakers included Alistair Creed (How to look after and properly sharpen knives), Gary Chaffey (Fish filleting), David Gregory (Tas. Men's Health Ambassador, Prostate Cancer); Tom Crawford (Fishing Connection), Neil Morrow (Tas. Anglers Access Project), Terry Byard (Irrigation Proposals), Peter Hopkins (MAST). Competition participation for Seniors increased for the first half of the Season but catch rates were down 72% mostly due to the rivers being in flood. Junior participation dropped off significantly. At Competitions: Fish caught 58 (208, 2008-09); Total Weight 44.720 kg (149.995 kg); Average weight 0.771 kg (0.721 kg). Competitions were conducted on: Derwent River 1st Aug. + BBQ (14 Attendees), Derwent River 2nd Aug (18 Attendees); Derwent River 29th Aug + BBQ (13 Attendees), Derwent River 20th Sept + BBQ (14 Attendees), Huon River 11th Oct (10 Attendees), Arthurs Lakes area 22-25th Oct (13 Attendees); Western Lakes 14-15th Nov. (6 Attendees); Bronte Area 23-26th Jan (3 Attendees), Cremorne 21st Feb + BBQ (18 Attendees); Bronte Area 24-25 Apr (4 Attendees). Two different events were organised this season: ANSA & Bridgewater Club Compo on 27-28th Mar. (9 Attendees) on the Swan and Little Swanport Rivers under ANSA compo rules. Life Member Robert Bradshaw organised and guided a

I

President: Peter Wood Secretary: Gary Chaffey Treasurer: Bernard Creed STLAA Delegates – Terry Byard Meetings: Last Tuesday of each month except January & June - wetfly@tasmail.com

25

group of 8 members on a seven day Trekking & fishing expedition to the base of the Walls of Jerusalem. Social events included the usual Christmas barbecue at Tolosa Reserve, back to Sorell gourmet meals and the Bradshaw Cremorne barbecue. Two of our Life Members turned 80 this Season and functions were organised to celebrate these. Mr Bob Ward: 50 members and friends attended a dinner at the Shipwrights Arm Hotel and Mr. Frank Johnston: 24 members and friends attended as part of our Back To Sorell gourmet meal weekend. The Club continued its community work within the Brighton Municipality with the annual clean up of rubbish at the Bridgewater boat ramp, Wood's and Mason Point. The Club shack working bee completed the BBQ shelter shed and carried out the usual maintenance. Congratulations: The Club was successful in winning the STLAA Bridges Bros. Perpetual trophy. This is a long standing award that is made to the Club which is judged to have achieved the most for the year within the Association. The award was shared with the Lake Pedder Anglers Club. STLAA Life Members Mr. Kevin Hansson was awarded Life Membership 2008-09 and presented by the President of the STLAA Norm Cribbin at our September General Meeting. Mr. Peter Wood was awarded and presented Life Membership at the recent STLAA AGM. To guest speakers, trophy donors, members of committees, participants at working bees, material and fund donors, I on behalf on the Club I extend our thanks and gratitude.

In closing thanks to the Secretary Gary Chaffy for all his hard work, Treasurer Bernard Creed, STLAA delegate Terry Byard, Shack Booking Officer Angus Maclaine, long time retiring Committee man John Bluett, retiring Committee man Ron Twining and all the Committee and Members for their hard work and support for a great year. We need rain in the South and tight lines for Season 2010-11. Peter Wood - President

26

Clarence Licensed Anglers Club

ell the 2009/10 has been another great season for the Clarence

club. The club this year has had numerous field trips and fundraising events. The club this year has been flat out this year fundraising for the funds to erect the new shack it purchased this year. The club members this year began holding barbeques at anaconda. I would like to thank Greg Browne for organising for the club to have this opportunity. I would also like to thank all the hard working members for helping out at these barbeques as I know I know it eats into your valuable trout fishing time, all the members appreciate your efforts. The club also attended the annual Liawenee open weekend which the members thank the regular crew that attend the weekend for the effort. The club had quite a number of field trips and club functions this season. It was fantastic to see the lake levels rising early in the season finally. The trips this season had good attendance with the

members that attended enjoying great fishing and mateship with their fellow members. The club this also brought in family field trips which it was great to see wife’s and kids out and about on fishing trips. In general the fish numbers been caught during the season are up a little. This year the club also had a guided tour of the inland fisheries new hatchery. this is a wonderful new facility that will provide fish for us to catch for years to come. I would like to thank the inland fisheries for the opportunity to tour this great facility. Finally I would like to thank the committee whom has put in a wonderful effort this season in keeping the club moving forward. I also would like to thank Norm, Neil, and Charlie for there on going work with the STLAA this season. Lastly I would like to wish the new president of the Clarence club all the best for the coming seasons Tim Holloway - President

Season Awards Trophy Location Angler Fish Method Weight Heaviest Fish for Season - Senior Men (Trout)

Huon River Vince Coyte Brown Lure 2.54 kg

Heaviest Fish for Season - Senior Women (Trout)

Tooms Lake Leigh Garth Brown Lure 1.20 kg

Heaviest Fish Field Trip (AC Walker Memorial Trophy)

Huon River Vince Coyte Brown Lure 2.54 kg

Club Member Award Leigh & Scott Garth

Junior Club Member Award

Dylan Brown

"ACE" Award Charlie Harris Heaviest Atlantic Salmon for Season

Lake Meadowbank

Leigh Garth Atlantic Salmon

Lure 3.13 kg

Consistent Angler Vince Coyte 263.1 Points

W

President: Timothy Holloway Secretary: Neil Pinkard Treasurer: Gary Davey Postal Address: PO Box 281 Rosny Park 7018 Contact: 0408 144 587 Email: norm.cribbin@hydro.com.au

27

Field Trip Awards Date Location Angler Fish Method Weight

01/08/2009 Derwent River Vince Coyte Brown Lure 0.49 kg 29/08/2009 Brumbys Creek Dorothy Shaw Brown Bait 0.38 kg 12/09/2009 Craigbourne Leigh Garth Atlantic Lure 1.01 kg 10/10/2009 Huon River Vince Coyte Atlantic Lure 3.12 kg 22/10/2009 Tooms Lake Vince Coyte Brown Lure 1.66 kg 14/11/2009 Craigbourne Leigh Garth Brown Lure 0.97 kg 15/11/2009 Pawleena Dam Leigh Garth Brown Lure 0.75 kg 05/12/2009 Arthurs lake Vince Coyte Brown Lure 1.14 kg 09/01/2010 Esperance River Cheryl Wagner Brown Lure 0.20 kg 26/01/2010 Lake Burbury Norm Cribbin Rainbow Fly 1.03 kg 06/02/2010 Bronte Lagoon Norm Cribbin Rainbow Fly 1.02 kg 20/02/2010 Arthurs lake Vince Coyte Brown Bait 0.55 kg 06/03/2010 Meander River Charlie Harris Brown Fly 0.27 kg 20/03/2010 Tyenna River Scott Garth Brown Lure 0.49 kg 01/05/2010 Woods Lake Vince Coyte Brown Fly 0.86 kg

Clarence Anglers Partners Weekend at National Park

28

Huon Licensed Anglers Association

ts that time of year again, the annual dinner is not far away and the new

trout season is fast approaching. Last year I started by writing about the weather and how I was hoping the wet start to winter would continue and refill some of our lakes. Well it did that in spades and we now have the opposite happening this year. I visited Arthurs (a particularly favourite spot of mine) this year and was pleased to see the lake water levels had risen massively since the lows of the previous year. It was great to see Great Lake come up as well. I now hope this continued dry doesn’t stay around for long. On to the Huon. The largest fish caught this year for our club was again by member Luke Woolley with a nice fish from the Huon area of 4.128kg. Now for some average weights, the average weight of Salmon weighed in this year was 1.342 kg which is down from the last 2 years (averages being 2.128kg and 2.083kg). Comparing that to our trout weighed in, 189 trout all up with an average weight of 841g. Which is very close to the averages of weights of trout weighed in over the last 2 years (854g and 862g), some interesting figures there. At a guess 90% of those fish weighed in are from the Huon area. The most popular destination other than the Huon, to have fish weighed in from, was Great Lake, returning some nice sized fish and bags. Our shack again was well used this year, with a number of new members joining to take advantage of our great facilities. Thanks to all involved in shack maintenance this year and our recent working bee. The shack is looking smarter than ever and has a huge wood

pile again. This will come in handy with the recent frosts and below zero nights we’ve been having. The club also held its annual casting competition. Once again it proved to be a very popular and fun day. The day was held at member Rob Chandler’s lovely property in Crabtree. It involved fly casting and lure casting at targets to test our skills and casting accuracy. Or at least what we thought were skills. We had to reschedule our competition from March this year to June due to a very rainy March Sunday. A fantastic clear sunny day in June made the day one to remember. There are quite a few young children starting to get the hang of casting and they had lots of fun. Events and well deserving winners were: Open Dry Fly: 1st Larry Paul 2nd Rob Chandler 3rd Bill Leishman Plug casting: 1st Larry Paul 2nd Roger Woolley 3rd Debbie Leishman Novice Dry Fly: 1st Howard Thurley 2nd Tricia Woolley 3rd Debbie Leishman A HUGE thank you must go to our sponsors who helped make it a great day (and a great year for our club), Rod & Range Sports of Glenorchy, Mike Tennar of Rod and Fly of Mountain River, Aurora Energy and Griggs Butchers of Huonville. Leigh Martin – President

I

President: Leigh Martin Secretary: Patricia Woolley Postal Address: 56 Watsons Rd Glen Huon Contact: Ph 0428 660 130 Meetings: Monthly

29

30

Kingborough Anglers Association

his is my second and final Annual Report for the K.A.A. Overall, the

year has been a good one with reasonable fishing and much work done on the Shack. The monthly competitions have been well patronised and a good number of fish caught especially in the early part of the season. Congratulations to Ivan for winning the overall season prize. There has been some discussion regarding the use of flies or lures at the competition events but as the Club is a general fishing club then all methods must be allowed although it may be interesting to explore the idea of a fly only event in the future. We have changed the Competition Rules to include a catch and release system for those who do not want to keep all the fish they catch. This changeover should be fairly smooth and without too many glitches. Thanks to Mal for being the Weighmaster and to Steve for doing the sums. The Working Bee was down in numbers this year but we still managed to get a lot of jobs done including the installation of a new water tank which is now in its final resting place after a false start. The new kitchen is finished for the Club

Masterchefs and the woodshed lockup looks like you could sleep in it! Many thanks to Greg, Wayne, Mal, Longy et al for a job well done. The Fly Tying Weekend was very productive flywise and also good fun. Thanks to Glen for organising it once again. The Annual Dinner raised another few thousand dollars for the Club courtesy of Frank’s continued hard work but again the numbers were down on previous years. The night itself was very sociable and a lot of fun. The Club remains in a very sound financial position and my thanks go to Chris Edie for doing the books again this year. I would also like to express my extreme gratitude to Wayne Seabrook for the magnificent job he has done as Secretary over the past few years. It has made my job as President so much easier and less stressful. In closing, I look forward to the continued growth of the Club with a new set of faces at the helm. Peter Thompson – President

T

President: Peter Thompson Secretary: Wayne Seabrook Postal Address: GPO Box 242 Kingston 7050 Contact: Ph 62 672 556 Meetings: Last Thursday of month.

31

Lake Pedder Anglers Club

he Back to Pedder Competition is over again for another year and it

has been a very successful one at that with great outcomes all round. The fishing was great with all trout in better condition than in the past few years. The total fish caught this year was 326 compared to 506 last year. Competitors were only slightly lower this year with 129 of which 32 were juniors. Last year we had a total of 157 and 38 of these were juniors. Sponsorship has been great again this year with Wigston’s Lures, Lake Pedder Chalet and Hydro Tasmania being our major sponsors. Ten tagged trout at $100.00 each were released for the event donated once again by Inland Fisheries Service. However none of the fish were caught during the event. We are thankful to all our sponsors big and small as it is their support that makes this event possible. The club committee asks that all club members support the sponsors whenever possible and to let them know you are from Lake Pedder Anglers Club. This

will strengthen our relationship between club and sponsor and in addition may help you as well. A fun time was had by all children and especially the families who were hosted from Camp Quality Tasmania. The treasure hunt started off with a Pinyata and ended with all children sharing in the treasure. Fishing was on top of the list for most children along with a swim, movies, and games and not to forget the colouring in competition. With the generosity of all concerned the event raised $5,604.05 for Camp Quality with Bradley Harrison and Justin Causby’s hair shave raising $1,042.50, sports cards $185.00, BBQ $153.60, sale of Camp Quality lures $630.00, collection tins $584.95 & $3008.00 from the auctions. A big thankyou once again for your support towards this great cause. The club received $1753 from the auction and this will put us in good stead for next year. Laurie Harrison – President

T

President: Laurie Harrison Treasurer: Jodie Dingle Secretary: Tracey Gourlay Postal: 34 Ferntree Rd Eagle Hawk Neck 7179 Meetings: 2nd Thursday of month

32

Maydena Anglers Club

he 2009-10 season has not been all that successful for Maydena

Anglers. The Club is struggling as a result of declining membership and interest in Club activities. The Club ran a BBQ in February at which junior prizes were handed out. A raffle was also conducted to raise funds for the Club. A competition weekend was also held at Lake Meadowbank with only a few fish caught. Attendance at this event was quite pleasing.

Regretfully, I had to retire from the position of President during the year due to ill health. I hope members can rally around the Committee to ensure that the Maydena Anglers Club can continue into the future. Don Emery – Immediate Past President

T

President: Don Emery Secretary – Carolyne Mapley/Tony Richardson Postal Address: C/O Post Office Maydena 7140 Contact: 6288 2234 or 6254 1374

33

New Norfolk Licensed Anglers Association

nother fishing season has passed us by and I hope everyone had a good

year’s fishing in our great trout fishing state. The fishing season started with the club’s opening weekend competition, which was again well attended by the angling community from other clubs in the STLAA. The fishing was again a fierce competition with the New Norfolk club just getting over the line for a win. The club wishes to thank the sponsors for the competition including Norske Skog, Spot On, Wigston's Lures and Sports store. The club ran three very successful days at our junior angling pond which was well attended by numerous kids and their families all sharing in the fun and excitement of learning the basic skills that led to everyone catching heaps of fish. The club would like to thank Bushy Park Estates for the continual use of this facility as one day these kids who attend will be the future our club & the trout fishery in general. I would like to thank those club members who have helped out with the above mentioned events and also helping with the continual working bees at Windsor's Corner, the running of the weigh-in at the Eddie Wigston Memorial Trout Fishing Competition and the junior plug casting at the Derwent Valley Autumn Festival. The club held 9 trout and a newly added bream competition during the course of the season with 239 entries (176 seniors and 65 juniors) weighing a total of 310 fish with a total weight of 200.215kg at

an average weight of 646 grams. The bream competition was a measurement event with the two longest combined bream declared the winner. With numerous bream caught and released by most anglers the average length was around the 37cm mark. During the season anglers also weighed in some nice fish in our monthly competitions with 1 fish over 8kg, l over 7kg, 3 over 5kg, 4 over 4kg, and another 4 over 3kg. Club meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at the New Norfolk Library from 7.30pm and have been well attended by the committee. The Christmas BBQ was also well attended by club members and their families. This will be my last President's report due to increased work and family commitments. I would like to thank the committee members over this time as they have been a pleasure to work with and hopefully the club will continue to move in the right direction in years to come. President - Tim Lowe

A

President: Tim Lowe Secretary: Elaine Aitchison Treasurer: Ray Aitchison Post: 14 Warner Ave. New Norfolk 7140 Contact: Elaine Aitchison – Phone 6261 4083 Meetings: 3rd Wednesday of each month at the IFS Offices

34

35

Features & Special Reports The Derwent River – Season 2009-10 by Justin Causby

earunners, that sums up the season in the Derwent River for me this year

in one word. Never before have I caught so many searunners in the river, and that is without any notable whitebait run. Opening weekend started pretty as a picture with an amazing sunrise and glassy conditions and an ambient air temperature of 10 deg Celsius greeting anglers on the first Saturday of the month. I picked up 5 small trout to 650gr in the first 30 minutes before all hell broke loose with the weather. It was far from enjoyable and a decision to call it quits after braving a few hours was quite easy to make. Sunday was a different story. Overcast skies and a brisk breeze, it was far more conducive to spending a day on the water. It was this first Sunday on the water that pretty much set my pattern on the river for the next 3 months. Drift spinning and lots of it was the way I found the fish. That day I caught 14 trout with my last 5 coming in a flurry over 20 minutes all above the 1kg mark, the best nudging 1.5kg. Regrettably I had to call it a day and make my way to the Derwent River Challenge weigh-in. I could have happily stayed and fished the drift I was on. The majority of these fish were resident trout at this stage. As the weeks progressed I found fish regularly on virtually every shore from Green Island to Old Beach, taking them on everything from small 7gr Tassie Devils, the #54 “Smelt” doing all the damage through to large 120mm bibbed lures in natural bait colours. I tried soft plastics one afternoon but had no luck

and picked up fish again immediately after returning to hard bodies and cobras. One thing that changed quickly as we headed into September, and the flood waters cleared out of late August, was the arrival of searun trout in relatively big numbers. For a couple of weeks every fish in my catch was a searunner. All fat and strong putting up some extraordinary fights in the current particularly on the outgoing tide. A couple of notable afternoons saw two bags of 14 fish each time returning all but a couple kept for the table. My best fish of the season was a fat silver male coming in at 2.5kg not five minutes after landing a superbly conditioned female of 1.8kg. That particular day I had decided to put the boat in out of curiosity as the water was quite discoloured and I had heard a first hand report of trout feeding on bait schools off Mason’s Point in water with virtually zero visibility. I thought to myself this could not be the case, as the Derwent had broken its banks at New Norfolk and would have assumed the fish would be on the bottom and edges looking for worms, grubs, spiders and the like. I launched at Bridgewater and motored carefully looking for floating debris drifting from the recent high water. I had drifted ashore for around two hours with just one fish dropped. I had the river all to myself for this time when a boat motored downstream and pulled into my drift about 200m below me, much to my displeasure. After it ran aground on one of the channel edges and stirred up some mud I moved across the opposite side of the river for some fresh water.

S

36

I made but a handful of casts before hooking the lovely hen fish at 1.8kg. The said boat spotted this activity and also motored across the river to once again take up my drift so I offered a little advice downstream. I hit the electric and held position in the current for five minutes before starting my drift again. Quickly dropping a fat little sea-runner around 1kg. A few casts later I hooked the 2.5kg buck which certainly put on a fantastic display. I played the fish for around 10 minutes or so. In this time my new friendly anglers had given up their drift and were charging back upstream only to spot me playing the big searunner and they decided to hit the brakes and drop in again just one more time. After landing the fish and taking a couple of photos I decided to call it a day before I ended up making coffees for my new friends. This great fishing continued over the months right through to late November. There were plenty of trout around and the bream were starting to get pretty active too, not to mention the cocky salmon which were about to invade in plague proportions. I managed to land a trout at better than every 45 minutes on the water in the first 3 months, something I have never managed to get even remotely close to in previous years to show just how good the year was.

Another highlight I had on the water was a brief outing with my wife Bron and our then 3yr old son Toby. I had met them at the boat ramp on their way to an engagement for a quick hours fishing. Toby loves riding in the boat and I really wanted to get him on to a fish. Not yet ready to cast efficiently I was drifting a weed bank trying to hook a small trout, bream or salmon. Anything really just so he could wind it in. After managing to hook and drop more than one fish I quickly moved to a spot where I was sure I could hook a bream in quick time. Well hook something I did, it was a solid resident brown in magnificent condition pushing 1.3kg. Far too big for Toby to handle on 2kg line all by himself, I held the rod and to his credit he did wind it in all by himself and happily posed for a photo holding the fish with a smile a mile wide. That moment there was far better than any fish or day I had on the water for the whole year. I can only hope that the coming season is equally as good as the past for the Derwent fishery never ceases to amaze me with the quality and quantity of fish on offer. See you on the water in 2010-2011

37

The 18th Annual Eddie Wigston Memorial by Justin Causby

The 18th Annual Eddie Wigston Memorial Trout Fishing Contest Bronte Park - March 20th 21st 2010

he Tasmanian Central Highlands is a magical place and the Bronte Park

Region in particular has a lot to offer. The third weekend in March attracts a better than average crowd with the running of the Annual Eddie Wigston Memorial Trout Fishing Contest. Now celebrating its 18th year, one of the largest turnouts in recent years attended a fantastic event despite the less than perfect weather Mother Nature had arranged. The move to award all major prizes by way of the Fisherman’s Pie Prize Draw may have something to do with the growing attendances, particularly from families with junior entries up which is very encouraging. The Fisherman’s Pie gives all entrants the opportunity to take home some excellent prizes. All up there were 104 entrants fishing in 39 teams. 214 trout were weighed in with a total weight of 100.75kg averaging 470grs, well down from the 2009 average of 573gr. Bronte Lagoon gave up some excellent trout for another party and this year further south at Binney the fishing was also quite good in stark contrast to the 2008 event. Several large Atlantic Salmon were also caught here and presented to the scales although these are not eligible for prizes the NNLAA members conducting the weigh happily obliged for a weight. It has been several years since teams have fished at King William and Lake St Clair in the Eddie Wigston event,

perhaps the extra distance to travel keeping teams closer to Bronte Park. The Heaviest Fish Overall and Ian Wigston Memorial Trophy were won by young Jayden Pearce with a 1.100kg trout from Dee Lagoon. Heaviest for 14-17yr olds was caught by Jason Spotswood from Bronte Lagoon weighing 1.015kg. And for the 6-13yr category James Pearce had a 1.025gr trout from Dee Lagoon. In the team prize section, 3rd place was Team Try Again – Don Emery and Peter Parsell with 6.655kg. In 2nd place was Team Bronte Boys – Peter Spotswood, Alan Manson and Jason Spotswood with 8.3kg. The winning team fishing Lake Echo was Team Shamwari – Tony Robertson, Nathan Sharpe and Kevin Vaux with 23 fish at 12.025kg. “We caught most of our fish on a green and gold Tassie Devil” Tony Robertson said as he accepted his trophy and lures. The winning team will have their details inscribed on the perpetual shield. The weigh-in, BBQ and presentations were held at the Bronte Park Chalet where everyone enjoyed lunch, refreshments and some warmth from the wet and windy weather around the large fireplace. The Wigston family would like to thank the New Norfolk Anglers Club for conducting the weigh-in and look forward to seeing everyone again next year. All entrants from this year’s event will receive notification of the 2011 event by mail to the address submitted on this year’s entry form. At the time of writing the 2011 event is scheduled for March 19-20th.

T

38

Summer Streams by Rob Chandler

he Huon valley has some great streams. All are worth a try. In

recent years the resident Rainbow and Brown trout populations have been supplemented with plenty of escaped Atlantic salmon and even the odd hatchery reared brook trout. The IFS Huon Access pamphlet (also on website) will help you find your way around.

Early in the season worms, small lures, soft plastics and wet flies will all do the trick. All of the above methods work well when the water levels are up and the fish have to strike at food items quickly. Heavier lure types will get you down into the strike zone if the flow is fast. Good bags of small fish can be caught and expect to be surprised by bigger specimens.

Small stream in the Huon area.

The most enjoyable stream fishing occurs when the water levels drop and the temperature rises in the New Year. Early season methods still work but the most rewarding approach is the dry fly. The low flows allow easy wading midstream often without waders. In bright sun with polaroids you will be able to spot fish in the slower pools or at least see them spook away (look for shadows not bow waves!). A buoyant

easy to see dry such as a Royal Wulff in size 10 to 14 is a good place to start. If the fish are rising and this fails try a smaller size 16 drab dun or emerger. They are hard to see but can turn things around completely. A small nymph tied off the back of the Royal Wulff can also work but you may need a bigger dry such as a Stimulator to float above a Bead-headed nymph.

T

39

Most of the fish will only be 200-300mm long requiring only a 6-7 foot 3 or 4 weight rod to tame them. These small rods really lend themselves to short casts under the riverbank trees and definitely add to the fun. If no one has beaten you

to the stream (look for wet boot prints) you should either bag out or lose count! Due to size as much as anything else, catch and release is the order of the day....but you never know what might be lurking in the next pool....

Typical small stream Brown Trout

It had been a great afternoon. After releasing about a bag each we were pretty happy approaching the next pool. Keeping a low profile we carefully scanned the slow water ahead. My mate spotted a good fish at the tail of the pool and cast to it. As often happens, the fish spooked as a brave tiddler snatched the fly away. I’d moved up the pool to some clear water and quietly took up station. Suddenly I’m eyeballing a kilo size fish that cruised to halt mid stream just a dozen feet away! The first cast wasn’t bad but another tiddler attack had me dragging the fly from within inches of the target. My mate groaned. I felt sick

but flicked out another cast trying not to move anything other than the rod tip. The fish drifted lazily as the fly approached ....would it bother....a gentle to strip to skid the fly over its nose....gee I hope it notices....A gapping white mouth appears as the head slowly lifts...the fly slips under with a clomp and the gills flash red as the water is expelled! The four weight rod took plenty of stick and the fish stayed out of the sticks! The gods smiled and a couple of blokes were stoked to find a perfect not one, but two kilo brown trout in a Huon stream!

40

On the way to the net.

Rob Chandler with 2 kilograms of small stream Brown Trout.

41

26 The Avenue - New Norfolk Ph 03 62612244 Fax 03 62612255

• Trophies and Awards • Plaques

• Medals & Ribbons • Plastic signage • Printed plaques • Plastic signage • Name Badges

• Computer engraving (Free engraving on our trophies)

• Sublimation printing available. • Personalised printed coffee mugs, Mouse pads, Stubby holders, Name badges, Luggage tags, Polo

tops and TShirts, Jigsaw puzzles. • Have your photos or club logo printed onto any of

the above products with no minimum order.

42

Bothwell Bakery & Cafe

Open 7 days a week

On your way to the lakes why not call in and see us!

Great Coffee - Delicious Cakes

Tasty Homemade Pies Hot & Cold Take-Aways

Pizza Night Friday’s – Available from

4 pm till 8 pm

Gavin & Chantel Ryland

Phone: 03 6259 5551

Saturday – Thursday 5 am to 5 pm Friday 5 am to 8 pm

43

Season Highlights 2009-10 by James McIlhenny

eason 09-10 for me was not especially memorable in terms of

number of fish caught particularly after the previous season where fish in places like Arthur’s Lake seemed easier to find and eager to attack a bit of fur or a few feathers on a hook, it may have been the low water level making them more concentrated and easier to reach with the fly. By comparison this season Arthur’s Lake did not really fire up and fish seemed more reluctant to feed in the shallower parts after the sudden increase in water level the previous winter. Despite the lack of fish in the net I did have a few fishing sessions during the season that I will remember for a long time. The first was at the Kingborough Anglers outing to Woods Lake in early November. The Sunday morning was calm and sunny with not a ripple on the water, my least favourite fishing conditions. After a couple of hours failing to find a fish in the calm conditions I headed for the trees on the eastern shore and parked the boat. The water level was high and flooded right into the trees which provided a lot of shade over the water. It wasn’t long before I started to see a number of fish cruising around the trees in about 30cm of water. Casting was difficult amongst the trees and I had a small fur fly on at the time which kept catching the bottom. I decided it was time to put on a dry fly. Just as I cut off the fur fly a large fish cruised into view and swam around my feet as I stood perfectly still. When it turned and started swimming away from me, and not having a fly attached to the leader, I dropped the fur fly in behind it, just to see what would happen. It heard the plop, turned around and swallowed

the fly. It was great to watch but frustrating that the fly was not attached to the line. I finished the session by hooking a couple of fish on a red tag from around the trees.

Woods Lake Campsite The second memorable session was at Lake St Clair in the last week of December. My partner and I had headed up to the Kingborough Anglers shack at Bronte Lagoon for a few days, a great place to relax and unwind after the Christmas rush. The fishing at Bronte had been fairly quiet so we decided to take the kayaks to Lake St Clair and paddle around the Derwent Basin. Now from past experience Lake St Clair is not a place where I expect to catch many or any fish but I thought I would put the rod in, just in case I saw a fish rise. It was a warm, sunny day with a light wind; we launched the kayaks at the Frankland Beaches and paddled out past Pumphouse Point towards the northern shore. After an hour or so we decided to stop for a coffee on a small sandy beach. I fired up the camping gas stove and put on the coffee pot; with the coffee brewed we were relaxing on the beach enjoying the solitude and scenery when gum beetles started dropping onto the water. Within 5 minutes fish started to rise consistently for them, some only within 5 or 10 metres from where we were

S

44

sitting. I couldn’t resist the temptation so I had to abandon the coffee and pick up the rod. It only took 2 casts for the first fish to take the fly and within 10 minutes I had landed 3 fish and lost 2 others only 5 metres from where my partner was sitting. Now she thinks fly fishing is easy and can’t understand when I come home without a fish. The number of fish rising eased off after a while so we paddled up into the far corner of the Derwent Basin and then decided to return to the small beach for lunch. As we approached I could see a large fish consistently feeding near the shore where numerous gum beetles had drifted in. I parked the kayak and spent the next 20 minutes casting a foam gum beetle in the vicinity of the fish, my gum beetle being one of hundreds on the water did not get a look in but luckily the fish was so focussed on feeding that my clumsy casting did not seem to scare it off. I finally managed to cast at the fish in a spot where my gum beetle was the only one, it lazily swam over and took one gum beetle too many. It was a nice 2kg rainbow. I did return to the scene of the crime a few weeks later hoping for a repeat performance. For the first 3 hours we fished around the Derwent Basin and would have sworn that there was not a fish in the lake. Then there was a massive fall of very small flying ants and thousands of fish were rising all afternoon, not one of them silly enough to take any of the 20 or so fly patterns we threw at them. The last memorable session for the season was a couple of hours spent at Double Lagoon one mild sunny afternoon in late February. I decided to head down the eastern side of the Lagoon towards the rocky southern

shore where I had previously found spinner feeders.

Lake St Clair Brownie Upon reaching the eastern most point of the Lagoon I thought it would be a good idea to take a shortcut across the shallow bay which has a white sandy bottom extending out about 100m. Being only knee deep and crystal clear I thought it unlikely that there would be any fish in this bay so proceeded to wade across at full speed. Within 20 metres I spooked a decent fish and realised that my initial thoughts were wrong. Moving with more caution I started to spot numerous fish cruising across the sandy flats, the fish themselves were hard to spot from a distance but you could clearly see the dark shadow they cast on the white sand, just like flats fishing in the tropics. I spent the next 2 hours casting to fish cruising the flats, the hook up rate was not great but many came for a look and it was exciting fishing.

45

NNLAA Derwent River Interclub Challenge 2009-10 by Justin Causby

he New Norfolk Licensed Anglers Association once again invited the

fellow clubs from the STLAA to take part in the Derwent River Challenge on Opening Weekend of the Trout Season in August. After the success of the inaugural year in 2008 the club was keen to expand upon the wonderful start. In perfect conditions many anglers hit the water at daybreak. The air was still and a warm 10 degrees greeted anglers on the Derwent River. It looked like it was going to be a superb day but looks can be deceiving, and those thoughts couldn’t have been any further from the truth. In just a couple of short hours the weather took a turn for the worse with gale force winds buffeting the water and heavy rain putting a real dampener on the day. Wind strength was incredible with rain falling in horizontal squalls. Most, including myself, decided to leave the water hoping for more hospitable conditions the next day. Sunday’s weather was far more comfortable for all anglers with some top fish caught in the overcast skies and much calmer productive conditions. A number of good fish were taken early on the first day from the Derwent but only a small number of boats remained on the water after the weather change, in the slightly more sheltered areas around Millbrook Rise and Norske Skog. The open expanses of the Derwent down stream from Green Island quickly resembled a washing machine with conditions unlike any I have seen on the Derwent previously. Large waves driven by extremely strong winds made it very difficult for boats trying to return to the New Norfolk boat ramps. The water was

soon very discoloured as the rough conditions stirred up the tidal flats. Much to the disappointment of many, the first day of the season was largely a wash out. Sunday was sure to be a popular day on the water after the first day frustrations and dozens of boats were on the water. Many lined the banks of the river, the majority of which were taking part in the NNLAA Derwent River Challenge. Weather was being kind with light winds and overcast skies a good recipe for catching trout. The fishing was reasonably good with some excellent trout falling to many different angling methods. Lure anglers did well, both trolling and drift spinning. The young juniors on the NNLAA also caught some solid fish on bait around the New Norfolk Bridge area. In its second year and despite Saturday’s weather the NNLAA Inter Club Challenge was another successful event. There were a total of 168 entries with 108 trout weighed in, which was quite good given virtually a full day was lost. Generous sponsors help the club run the event each year and many thanks must go to Norske Skog as the major sponsor of the competition. Results for heaviest fish prizes: Derwent River Challenge Shield New Norfolk Anglers Club with their five heaviest combined fish at 7.640kg narrowly edging out the Bridgewater Anglers with 6.725kg. Winning NNLAA anglers were: Adrian Slater 1.805kg, Rickie Monks 1.505kg, Brendan Crosswell 1.495kg, Justin Causby 1.475kg and Mark Smith 1.360kg.

T

46

Winning Junior anglers

Individual honours went to: Senior Male – Kevin Nettlefold 2.165kg from the Bridgewater Anglers Club. Senior Female – Julie Braslin 0.725kg from the New Norfolk Angler Club Junior Male 14-17yrs – Sam Hanson 1.270kg New Norfolk Anglers Club Junior Female 6-13yrs – Courtney Pearce 1.375kg Bothwell Angler Club Junior Male 6-13yrs – Dylan Pearce 1.365kg Bothwell Anglers Club Note: There were no trout caught be junior females 14-17yrs category. It was great to see the top prizes shared around between several clubs. A large crowd gathered for the presentation and all stayed for the Fisherman’s Pie prize draw where quality prizes to the value of $3000 were given away.

The competition is also run to raise money for a charity each year. This year the NNLAA was donating all profits to Ronald McDonald House. This year’s tally was close to $3000. The NNLAA would like to thank all the clubs that took part and purchased a sausage and a drink at the weigh-in as all your contributions will help out some truly thankful families as they go through difficult times. In closing it is with much disappointment to hear the NNLAA does not intend to run the Derwent River Challenge in season 2010-11.

47

Bridgewater Anglers in the Bernes Valley by Robert Bradshaw

fter quite a few years of not undertaking walking trips into the

Western Lakes, a group of eight members decided in January this year it was time to resurrect these once very popular club trips. After much pondering of which area to visit we settled on a return visit to the magnificent Bernes Valley. This valley runs parallel with the western side of Great Pine Tier and runs from Lake Ball in the north to Lake Antimony in the south. It is a stunningly scenic valley with, in the main, pleasant open walking conditions. The valley is drained by the Pine River which flows through the many picturesque lakes along the length of the valley. Our group consisting of Marie, Anthony, and Owen Woolley, Peter Wood, Alistair Duggan, Angela Bradshaw, Bob Ward and myself set out for seven days in the valley shortly after Christmas. Starting at the Lake Ada car park we followed the old Lake Fanny Track before branching off shortly after Christies Creek, on the less distinct track to Lake Antimony. Finding a very pleasant campsite at Theresa Lagoon, which is about half way to Lake Antimony, we decided to call it a day and pitched camp. Although the conditions were perfect, and a few small fish were rising, we had no luck with the fish on the first night. Next morning we awoke to a brilliant warm day and set off for the hut at Lake Antimony, a pleasant downhill walk, but care needs to be taken with route finding in a couple of places as the track is fairly overgrown. After a short stop at the hut

and a refreshing cool drink from the adjacent stream, we moved on to Silver Lake which was to be our base for a couple of days. The sheltered comfortable camping at Lake Silver made it an ideal base camp to explore the lakes to the west and over the next couple of days we visited Lake Galaxias and Lake Negara. All the while the weather was hot and windless. The water temperature in the shallow lakes was quite high and we spent a lot of time swimming, which is something the weather had prevented on previous trips. The fishing was very frustrating with large numbers of small fish rising all over the lake. Despite a concerted effort no fish were caught. It had been nearly ten years since I had been to Silver and the lack of large fish cruising the shallows was very noticeable from previous visits. The numbers seem to have increased and become much smaller. After a couple of magnificent days at Silver we broke camp early and set off up the Berne Valley, following the Pine River to Lake Sally. It was a very hot day with a strong northerly wind. We took our time and fished some large pools in the Pine River and were rewarded with a couple of well conditioned fish which were duly photographed and released for another day. Moving on up the valley we stopped at Lake Sally for lunch, with the hot wind howling down the lake. In no time Angela and Alistair had caught reasonable fish spinning into the white caps tearing across the lake. Another hour saw us on the shores of Lake Sonja, where we found a suitable

A

48

campsite for the next day or two. Peter soon caught a nice fish and this one was kept for the pan. From Sonja there are two lakes within about half an hours walk, these being Ah Chees, and Solveig. Next morning was a perfect Western Lakes day. Clear blue sky and the gentlest of breezes, perfect for fly fishing. Some of us decided to do a lap around Lake Solveig, which turned out to be very rewarding. There were steady numbers of fish rising at the southern end of the lake, and we all caught fish by both spinning and fly fishing. Traversing

around the sheltered northern end of the lake, we observed many fish in the shallows rising to all manner of insects. Although the fish could easily be seen in the crystal clear water, many could not resist a red tag or just about any big dry fly presented. The result was the best days fishing we have ever had in the Western Lakes. Alistair repeatedly landed good fish all day and Angela caught her first three fish ever on the dry fly. I also had considerable success, but the look of joy on Angela’s face was the best reward of all.

Lake Solveig - Robert Bradshaw

We were reluctant to leave this gem of a lake but as it was New Years Eve and a reasonable walk back to camp, we set off so as not to hold up the celebrations with the rest of the group. Some may remember the spectacular thunderstorm and lightning that hit

Hobart on New Year’s Eve, well let me tell you, when you are out in the Western Lakes in a little two man tent at 1100 metres altitude, and the storm comes straight at you, and directly over the top, it is really something to talk about. The main storm was preceded by about an hour of very spectacular

49

thunder and lightning and then after a large flash of lightning I noticed a wall of water descending upon our camp just a short distance up the lake. I yelled a warning to everyone who were just enjoying a celebratory Scotch. What a scatter there was for the tents as the storm hit, Scotch flying everywhere as we dived into the tents and fumbled with zips. The two girls were on top of the hill taking photos of the lightning, and were a bit slow getting back and were thoroughly soaked. Strange how Marie did not think it amusing that hubby didn’t want to let her into the tent because she was too wet!! The storm dumped about 150 mm of hail up against the tents and passed on, and we all survived this amazing experience.

Peter Wood at Lake Sonja

Next morning we packed up in cool conditions and walked down the Western side of the valley to the hut at Lake Antimony. It is very easy walking in open country with very little scrub. At the hut site at Lake Antimony there is a very comfortable camping area on flat grassy ground at the rear of the hut.

The afternoon was spent fishing the western shore of Antimony in a stiff westerly with a bit of rain thrown in .The first cool day in a week, I managed a fish on a mall spinner and Alistair caught one on a wet fly, both reasonable fish of about 750 grams. We explored the beautiful little lake east of Antimony and then headed back to camp in ever threatening weather. A big cook up to use up a bit of surplus food entertained us that night. Fresh fish, schenkin, salami, freeze drieds, chocolate, scroggin and, oh yes, radioactive custard that glowed in the dark (but that’s another story). We survived the mixture and set off next morning for Ada Lagoon and the cars. All being quite a bit fitter by now, we made good time to the Lake Fanny track junction where we stopped for lunch before the final long section of track back to Ada Lagoon. The trip was another highly successful one, with all members of the party returning fit and healthy having thoroughly enjoyed the week in the wilderness. Of special note was the sterling effort by Bob Ward, a well known southern angler, who successfully undertook the trip in his eightieth year!! Of note re the fishing were my observations again proving correct from previous trips, that the stronger the wind is blowing the better the fishing, if you are spinning with small spinners. Alistair also caught fish on a red tag in strong wind, they will come up! Also on the right day dry flies of many a varied type will take almost suicidal fish .You just have to “be there” as they say. I would just like to remind anglers that the Berne Valley and all the other areas of the Western lakes are very exposed

50

mountain areas of 1100 meters and more altitude and as such should be treated with the greatest of respect .On previous trips to this area in January we have had over 200 mm of rain in a day which saw Lake Antimony rise over 1.5 meters in depth overnight, and near double in size. The rivers were all raging and impassable The next morning we had 200mm of snow at the Antimony hut camp site and had to sit out the weather before retreating. Take the very best quality gear you can afford. It may save your life. Your tent, sleeping bag, and waterproof coat are your life savers spend up big on them. Now that the pocket size EPIRB’S are so small and light they should be carried on all trips

into these remote areas. They can be rented for a small price if you are reluctant to purchase one. Obviously you should also ensure you are competent at map reading and can use a compass. Apart from the main through routes, most of the Western Lakes are completely untracked and are subject to fog much of the time. For a well equipped group, amazing scenery awaits and excellent fishing can be found if you search it out. Now is the time to plan next summer’s trip and I trust a few will be inspired to give it a go!

Bridgewater Anglers Association group all safely back

51

Where are they now? by Luke Stefankowski - Ex “Cash Can Kid”

ictured (below) at Lake Binney from left Julia Banasik, Luke

Stefankowski, Kristel Banasik and Lydia Stefankowski As youngsters we would go camping and fishing to the lakes with our parents, who are the best of friends. One particular day we decided to form a club of our own and voted to call ourselves the “Cash Can Kids” Club. We voted in a President, Vice-President, Treasurer and Secretary and we would rotate the office bearers so we all had a go at each title. We would scour the lakes looking for cans that were randomly discarded by the litter bugs and would confiscate cans before they were thrown in the bin, in between jumping in puddles, looking for lizards or playing Uno.

When we thought we had enough cans our mums took us to Sims Metal to cash in the cans and back in those days we were rewarded with enough for a large pizza to share. Subsequently we ate the pizza and closed the “Cash Can Kids” Club. Julia was a member of the Australian-Polish Anglers Club for a number of years and now resides in Melbourne. Luke is President and Kristel has been Secretary and currently is a member of the committee of the Australian-Polish Anglers Club. Lydia lives and works in Hobart. As the story goes when you are exposed to angling in the early years, it stays with you into the later years.

P

52

Huon Anglers Club – Casting Competition 2010 by Rob Chandler

ollowing a postponement in March this year due to poor weather the

Huon Angler’s Club annual Casting Competition was held on Sunday 27th of June in perfect conditions. Clear blue sky and no wind greeted a larger than usual turn out of members. The fly casting competition was held on a dam at Rob Chandler’s property in Crabtree and involves one discipline, dry fly casting to five targets set out in a semi-circle. The plug casting competition utilised an adjacent paddock and required participants to lure cast to five targets setup at distances between 8 and 12 metres.

Rhys Murtagh showing his casting style. While the number of experienced fly casters was down it was great to see more novice and junior members entering the competitions. Three fly casters fought out for the Senior division and twelve, including some pint sized

juniors, entered the Novice division. The Senior Fly casting was won by Larry Paul followed by Rob Chandler and Bill Leishman. The Novice Fly casting was won by Howard Thurley with Barry Page and Tricia Woolley taking second and third respectively after a cast off. Interestingly only four casters own a fly rod yet of the 15 entries only two competitors failed to find at least one target. Both the entered junior members managed to score, well done Jack and Jordyn Mayne. The Plug casting was split into three divisions - Mens, Ladies and Juniors. In order, the top three men were Larry Paul, Roger Wolley and Rob Chandler. Debbie Leishman won the Ladies division and Carol Wolley came a close second. Six junior members had a “red hot go” and were all awarded a prize for their efforts. While it has to be acknowledged that the general standard of casting was less than “Olympic” the number of entries and enthusiasm shown demonstrated a willingness by our members to “rise” to a challenge. Most club members prefer spinning or trolling to catch fish but the “lure” of a prize brought out the best of their fly casting skills. Only one member scored more points in the plug section than the fly casting competition. Well done everyone! A special thanks goes to our sponsors - Rod and Range at Glenorchy, guide Mike Tenner from Rod and Fly and Griggs Butchery of Huonville.

F

53

A New Friend – A True Tale by Charlie Harris

n the weekend of the September Trout Festival I was shopping at the

fishing store in Cressy. I came across something which immediately caught my eye; an eco friendly fishing net with a shiny red handle. The net was priced at seventy dollars. A little expensive I thought, so I bargained it down to sixty dollars. Pleased with my new purchase, I caught up with my wife and friends at the pub. Boasting about my acquisition I was promptly met with the usual indifferent response from my wife, “that’s nice dear”. Despite her lack of interest my spirits hadn’t dampened. On the way back to Hobart I dreamt of the many fish that would be landed by my new net. When home I placed my new net in my wardrobe. I was fixated with my net, frequently getting her out to test the feel of it in my hands. It didn’t take long before my dear net became a new companion to me. A fortnight felt like a life time, but at last the Arthur’s Lake fishing weekend had arrived. My new friend had taken pride of place in my van. When I arrived at the campsite I quickly set up so that I could show the club members my new net. By Saturday afternoon my boat and I were ready to go fishing. The new net was positioned with care at the front of my boat. The sun was shining and I was feeling positive that my new net would help me land some awe inspiring fish. On a small island I disembarked to walk along the shore with my old collapsible net. Amongst some large rocks in the water was a sizeable trout. I flicked a fly out and the trout inhaled it like it was his

last meal. Flicking my old net out to open it I proceeded to land the fish. Walking back to the boat I noticed the wind had started to stir, so I decided to head back to the camping ground, trolling as I went. Whilst watching my rods, I heard an eerie scraping sound. I snapped my neck around to see my new net falling overboard! After cursing a few blasphemous words I realised my net was floating on the water’s surface. It wanted to be saved! I turned my boat around only to discover that she was sinking into the abyss. I aligned my boat so that my net would glide toward me on a wave, but a freak wind pushed me off course. Ever quickly was my net sinking deeper. I made a rash decision to have another attempt at saving her. Like a martyr, I stretched my arm out across the harrowing waves to secure my net. Alas, the shiny red handle sunk deep beneath the waves toward her watery grave.

Last know photo of the “Net” Knowing there was nothing I could do to save my new friend I began my trip back to camp. I was devastated at the loss of a friend. In my heart I knew I could have done more to save it. I was angry at myself for not tying it up to my boat in the first place. Perhaps the worst part was admitting my failings to the club members back at camp – the story of my net who never landed a fish.

O

54

Season 2009-2010 Photo Gallery

Robert Bradshaw – Pine River

Angela Bradshaw Lake Solveig

Jack Gordon – NNLAA Junior Pond

Rowan Thomason - NNLAA Junior Pond

55

Adam Byrne - NNLAA Junior Pond

Kyle & Caylin Daley - NNLAA Junior Pond

Toby Causby - NNLAA Junior Pond

Aiden Russell - NNLAA Junior Pond

56

Danika Bird & father Rick - NNLAA Junior Pond

Chloe Tassell - NNLAA Junior Pond

Riley Blackaby - NNLAA Junior Pond

57

Shaun Norris - NNLAA Junior Pond

Stan Tarnowaka – Arthurs Lake

Tony Raspin – Tyenna River

Damian Tarnowka – Arthurs Lake

58

Alistair Duggan - Lake Sally

Laurie Harrison - Lake Pedder

NNLAA winning team anglers for the Derwent River Challenge

59

Rob Chandler, Larry Paul, Robin Henzler, Peter Fewkes & Dennis Griggs – Great Lake

Kevin Nettlefold - Heaviest Fish Derwent River Challenge

Derwent Valley Mayor Marty Evans – Derwent River

60

Presentation to the LPAC from Camp Quality families 2010.

Adam Williams who designed the Camp Quality lure

Kayden Forbes and Sam – Lake Pedder

61

Kayden Forbes 1st Trout – Lake Pedder

Adam – Lake Pedder

Justin Causby, Kayden & Bradley Harrison after hair cut which

raised over $1,200 for Camp Quality.

62

Robert Bradshaw & Bob Ward – Lake Sonja.

Holly Lowe, Toby Causby and Liam Lowe at the STLAA Family Day – Salmon Ponds.

63

Freya Downie with little sister - NNLAA Junior Pond

Jack Mayne – Huon Casting Comp.

Cara Griggs – Huon Casting Comp.

64

Jack Mayne – Huon Casting Comp.

Larry Paul giving Jordyn Mayne some help – Huon Casting Comp

Rhys Murtagh getting a hand from his Pop Barry Page– Huon Casting Comp.

Bill Leishman– Huon Casting Comp

65

Jody Page – Huon Casting Comp.

Roger Woolley– Huon Casting Comp.

Barry Page – Huon Casting Comp.

Carol Woolley – Huon Casting Comp.

66

Larry Paul – Huon Casting Comp.

Rob Chandler giving Tricia Woolley some pointers – Huon Casting Comp.

Toby (3) and Justin Causby with a chunky Derwent Brown

67

Charlie Harris & Neil Pinkard – Tyenna River

Lyn Simmons – Lake Burbury

Charlie Harris – Meander River

Vince Coyte, Alan & Dorothy Shaw – Craigbourne Dam

68

Vince Coyte – Huon River

Adrian Tanner – Lake Burbury

Jeff Freeman – Craigbourne Dam

69

Stephen Granger – Craigbourne Dam

Norm Cribbin – Penstock Lagoon

Shayne Jones – Arthurs Lake (Smallest Fish)

70

Tony Johnson – Woods Lake

Stephen Jones – Great Lake

Beata Jurek – Lake Binney

John Lewis – Bradys Chain

71

72

Our Angling History The Creation of Our Man Made Lakes - Images Hydro Tasmania Photo Achieves

Penstock Lagoon – Penstock Intake at Southern end of lagoon 1947 – Frozen Over

Arthurs Lake Dam under construction Circa 1962

73

Looking towards Tarraleah over southern end of Bradys Marsh (Bradys Lake)

Northern end of Bradys Marsh (Bradys Lake)

74

Woodwards Canal under construction from Big Marsh (Bronte Lagoon)

Woodwards Dam at Bronte Lagoon 1953

75

76

Bradys Dam under construction 1950

View of Lake King William from Majors Lookout 1949

Dealer of the Year 2010

                                         

As well as being valuable sources of sustainable energy, our lakes also provide excellent fishing, along with other recreational water activities. While we want to share them with you, we would like to remind you that safety on the water should be your first priority, just as creating clean, renewable energy is ours.   www.hydro.com.au