This week has been typical of mid-winter weather. Offshore winds have varied in strength from day to day, with overnight temperature dropping close to zero. Perhaps not ideal conditions for everyone, but if you are prepared to rug up, some great winter angling is on offer.
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In the estuary, blackfish have been consistent from both breakwalls, with greenweed, cabbage and weed flies each having their days.
Flathead numbers remain excellent in all parts of the Hastings. Soft vibes have been particularly effective on the lure front, while whitebait has been the bait of choice.
Gone are the days when flatties were considered a summer only species, with results just as good in the middle of winter as in any other part of the year.
On the bream front, numbers and quality remain solid from the breakwalls and up Limeburners, although the current full moon phase may see them a little shy during evening sessions.
Mulloway on the other hand have been most active, with several good fish taken off both breakwalls, along with a sprinkling of school- sized up river.
Off the walls, large soft plastics have been the lure of choice over recent weeks, however, don't discount large hard-bodies during evening sessions during this full moon period.
On the beaches at present, results have been a little spasmodic. Lighthouse has been holding reasonable numbers of bream and a few nice whiting, while Dunbogan has produced the better tailor results.
Most beaches are also producing increasing numbers of salmon. Mulloway numbers however have been significantly down from most locations, as they have been all season.
It would appear the lack of any recent floods and the increased numbers right throughout the estuary may be a clue as to why.
Off the rocks, bream numbers remain solid, with fish to around a kilogram taken from most headlands. Dawn sessions have been by far the most productive of late.
On the tailor front, the action remains a little patchy, however most headlands are worth a look. Crescent Head seems to be holding the better grade of fish.
On the drummer front, results have picked up with some nice fish about. Positive reports have come from around Miners and Rockies locally over the past week, also from Point Perpendicular and Diamond Head for those who don't mind travelling.
Still plenty of blackfish about, with Shelley's locally well worth prospecting.
Offshore, John from Ocean Star charters reports good numbers of snapper, pearl perch and some most welcome pig fish on most reefs.
With little current and the water temperature about 19 degrees, conditions are perfect for prospecting the reefs using either baits or lures.
Wider out, leather jackets are about if you are simply after a good feed, with the depth range from 70 metres to 90 metres holding a good class of fish.
There are also still a few mahi mahi about, although just be mindful the FAD has been removed for winter maintenance.
Until next time, tight lines and good fishing to all.