2 Blonde Hair & Body

Bega Cheese

Black Dolphin Motel

Brumby's Bakery Merimbula

Buckenderra Holiday Village

Carbon Copy Printing

CDA Food Wholesalers

Claire Hodge Hairdressers

Covington's Restaurant, Pambula

Cycle 'n' Surf

Delcara Charter Services

Direct Appliance Services

Eden Ice Supplies

Goodall's Quality Meats

Griffith's Solicitors

Jeff Knox Builders

Kelly Stewart Jewellery

Leading Edge Jewellers Merimbula

Magic Mountain

Mandeni  Resort

McDonalds Merimbula

McKays Discount Oysters

Merimbula Aquarium & Wharf Restaurant

Merimbula Bay Clothing

Merimbula Camera House

Merimbula Ice Creamery

Merimbula-Imlay Bowling Club

Merimbula Lakeview Hotel

Merimbula Marina

Merimbula Mowers & Marine

Merimbula Newsagency

Merimbula Outboard Service

Merimbula News Weekly

Merimbula Rainforest Nursery

Merimbula RSL Club

Merimbula Surf Shop

Merimbula Sports & Trophies

Merimbula Tackle World (Blue Water Sports)

Nolan Cylinder Heads & Auto Parts

Oaklands Nursery

Pambula Liquorstop

Pambula Merimbula Golf Club

Pat's Tyres

Pier One Bar & Grill

Platypus Pet Supplies - Pambula

Radio 2EC

Rathlin 11 Fishing Charters

Reel Affair Fishing Charters

Robert Smith Complete Furnishers

Royal Willows Hotel Pambula

Sapphire Coast Car & Boat Wash

Sapphire Office Services

Seeto & Dodd Amcal

South Coast Brick & Roofing

Squizzy's United

Squizzy's Tyre and Auto

Stonehouse Café

Stowe Australia

The Cantina

The Picture Show Man (Merimbula)

Thrifty-Link Hardware

Top Fun

Top Pub (Pambula) (The Commercial Hotel)

Toyworld

Tura Beach Liquorstop

Tween Waters Holiday Resort

Video Ezy

Wheelers Restaurant

Wykes Retravision

Firstly, congratulations to all anglers who participated in our 30th Annual Yellowfin Tournament.  Congratulations to Paul Jones on Sea Mode who was the eventual winner with a 67kg Yellowfin Tuna on 24kg line.

Our tournament started off with 11 boats taking advantage of the early entry discount and on the evening of the briefing there were another 20 boats registered.  It was sad to see a few boats namely: Black & Blue, Amigo and Anthony Watson’s boat unable to fish as all had motor or hull problems, see you all next year no doubt. It was really great to have 32 boats enter our competition and with the weather report being excellent for the first 2 days anglers were chomping at the bit to start fishing.

Friday was a near perfect day and it wasn’t long before boats were calling in captures of Yellowfin Tuna between 40 & 60kgs. The crew on board Sea Mode were having a ball with captures and a total of four fish the biggest being: 67kg, 55kg, 51kg, 44kg and a Mako Shark weighing-in at 102kg all were captured.  Master Will Hodge (Junior Angler) caught his first Yellowfin Tuna & what a beauty it was.  It took Master Will approximately four hours to capture his fish of 53kg’s on 24 kg line.

The bench mark had been set and all boats and crews were really looking forward to Saturdays fishing. The wind was up a little but the fish were on again with Jodie Clarke (Lady Angler) landing a beaut Yellowfin of 51kg on 24kg line.  Other notable captures were Tom Scott : Blue Shark - 103kg, Angus Chirnside: Yellowfin - 50kg, Daniel Broardsmith 32.5kg on 15kg, Ronnie King: Stripped Marlin 96kg, Ole Ersvaer: 51kg Yellowfin, Steve Plevey: 51kg Yellowfin, Daniel Huges: 54kg Yellowfin and there were many more. There were also some good Makos of 80 to 95kgs either captured or tagged.

Saturday night saw our Tournament Dinner at Tura Beach Country Club and congratulations for putting on an excellent evening. Our monster raffle was a huge success with many prizes on offer. Sunday the weather was not kind at all thus only 15 boats took to the water and were logged off come lunch time.  On Sunday afternoon the presentation commenced at 4pm with about 100 odd members and their guests plus out of town entrants that had come from as far away as Melbourne and Albury. Refreshments along with bar snacks were served and the presentation commenced.  Sea Mode was the big winner of the tournament taking out the major prizes and congratulations to Paul Jones and his crew.  To all of the other winners congratulations on your achievements. From what I’m told  several crews partied on and there were a few sore heads on Monday morning.

A heart felt thank you goes to all of those folk who assisted in the organising of the tournament, the anglers, members and especially all of our sponsors, with out your support we could not run this event.

Plus the very professional volunteer radio operators who looked after us while we were on the water THANKS A LOT FOR YOUR COVERAGE

See you next year Snappy

By now all anglers should be aware of the new Tag and Release scoring system that has come into calculation from the 1st August 2009. For those anglers who do not already know MBGALAC had submitted a detailed submission to hold the NSWAGM in Merimbula next year. If this submission is successful it will be great for our club and Merimbula itself. Clubs will be represented from as far as Coffs Harbour, Norfolk Island and Newcas-tle with a total of approximately 30 clubs in attendance.
As far as the Game Fishing is concerned there is little happening at the moment and this is mainly due inclement weather. Looking at Southern Zone results most clubs in the Southern Zone up north are targeting sharks with notable captures being recorded.
Shellharbours Trent Kilmore on Reckless captured a Mako of 168.7kg on 15kg line and Junior Female Rebecca Finney captured a Mako of 104kg on 15kg line. Another good capture on 6kg line was a Mako of 82kg to Richard Gillmore also on Reckless. These boats from up north of our Southern Zone target sharks as there is little else to target at this time of the year, so if it happens up there it should happen down here. We are only hoping and praying for some good weather for a change…..
It was great to read the last issue of Blue Water Sports magazine which featured a tremendous three page article of MBGALAC captures of Southern Bluefin Tuna. It was really interesting to read about the long liners and their targeting of specific species. (Well worth reading)
We haven’t had any replies on our two record claims at this time. However, we expect to here something very shortly. As soon as I have any news I shall relay it on to the members concerned and no doubt it will spread around fairly quickly.
Don’t forget to have your boat, trailer and fishing reels serviced for the coming season. On a fi-nal note don’t you just love it “GO CATS”

See you on the water Snappy.

Merimbula Big Game and Lakes Angling Club - Weekly Fishing Report

30-08-2010

Fishing was a lot better for anglers this week with catches reported from out at sea on the rocks and in the local estuaries. This is great news as this time of year can be very tough with plenty of effort for a small result. Outside the Flathead have been up to 50 cm in reasonable numbers and plenty of Snapper, Morwong, Sweep and Nannygai caught on the inshore reefs. There were Snapper caught over the weekend ranging from a kilo to 2.5 kilo in weight which is great for this area this time of year. Barracouta are the only problem but you don't mind losing a bit of gear when quality fish are about. Whales are starting to show up in our waters and are also an added bonus when fishing so take your camera for a couple of memorable photos. Beaches have reasonable numbers of small Salmon and rock fishing this time of year is well worth the trip as Drummer are about and its perfect when the winds are coming from the west. Local estuaries are good with bream, Trevally and Tailor on the chew, but the pick of them would be Pambula River as Salmon have also been keen to take lures on the troll or when cast. Our new 2010-2011 committee was appointed recently and will soon announce the full club calendar detailing functions and weekends of club interest to be held. Our weekend away has already been locked in for ’Wonboyn Resort on 16th- 17th October so ring president Shane 64950008 to book early or put your name down on the list at the clubhouse. Congratulations to club stalwart Robert Wood who has been recognised for his tireless efforts over many years and has been awarded life membership.

May your reel scream, MexMex.><((((º>

Attached photo - Sandra and Robert Wood enjoying a meal by the water. Club stalwart Robert Wood has been awarded Life Membership of the Merimbula Big Game and Lakes Angling Club.

09-08-2010

Fishing was tough for anglers during the past week and about the only fish to be caught were Flathead taken north of town. Some of these fish were up to 45 cm but most were around the 40 cm mark which is great as that is an ideal size for eating. Anglers fishing over the shelf and the inshore reefs did it tough with very few bottom fish found. Estuary fishing was slow but tossing Squid jigs from the wharfs and rocks is the best bet with Calamari ready to pounce. Don’t forget our presentation night will be this Saturday night at the RSL and our AGM at the clubrooms Monday night. Both nights are very important for the club and all members are encouraged to attend.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

26-07-2010

Now may be the time to strip your game reels down and do a bit of maintenance on tackle and boats as the Gamefishing seems to have come to a halt. It’s not in concrete though but the chance of a good fish is a lot slimmer in the next few weeks. Fishing the deep reefs may be an option for Blue Eye Cod, Harpooka and Trumpeter but if you’re not prepared to do the miles a drop on the Flathead grounds north of Merimbula has proved successful for most crews. The Flathead haven't been monsters but fish up to 50 cm have hit the deck with consistency. The inner reefs are also providing great fishing with plenty of Snapper and Morwong most days. Plenty of Tailer about on the beaches and still big Bream found in our local estuaries. Still plenty of Squid if Calamari is on the list with local wharfs and rock platforms worth a shot. Current club members need to book there boat in to Merimbula Mowers and Marine for there yearly service and receive a 15 % discount held over the months of July and August. Club dues also need to be paid and would members please put there names on the list provided at the club for presentation night, August 14th. Tickets will be $31 per adult with junior prices still to be advised. Shane Mayberry and I will be on bar duty this Friday night with happy hour starting 6.30 pm. A beer and seafood raffle will be held sometime after the fishing report so bring a mate and have a fun night in our warm club surrounds.

May your reel scream, Mex .><((((º>

19-07-2010

The weather over the past week has been kind and boats put to sea hoping to find Bluefin tuna. Unfortunately none were sighted or caught and many anglers are now starting to think that the run for 2010 is over. It was interesting to hear that a few Yellowfin tuna up to 45 kilo were caught and apparently there is a report of a patch of water coming down with Tuna and Marlin in it. Fishing the bottom in close has had mixed results with reef species including Snapper and Morwong although some days Barracouta are about on the reefs, headlands and flathead grounds. If its Calamari on your menu then all local wharfs and rock platforms are worth a shot particularly at daybreak or dusk. Estuary fishing was a little tough but for those that persisted Tailor, Trevally and big Bream were found. A lot of bait fish are also in both the Merimbula and Pambula systems so it’s wont are a surprise if the fishing gets better. Over 90 club delegates and the executive of the New South Wales Game Fishing Association held its annual general meeting and trophy presentation at Club Sapphire in Merimbula last weekend. New South Wales Southern Zone that encompasses fishing waters from Eden to Kiama took many trophies for the year including the highly sought after Cock of the Walk trophies in both capture and Tag and Release categories. Host club Merimbula was congratulated time after time on a job well done and I would personally like to thank Club Sapphire, Lindon Thompson and all those people who contributed in making the AGM a fantastic weekend. Please don't forget we are now into the new fishing year and club membership needs to be payed. Our trophy presentation night will be on Saturday August 14th and AGM the following Monday 16th. Andrew Buckland and Darragh Reynolds will open the Spencer Park clubrooms 6.30 pm Friday night so bring a friend and enjoy a night including happy hour, raffles and the local fishing report,

May your reel scream, Mex .><((((º>

12-07-2010

It will be interesting to see what does eventuate over the next couple of weeks regarding Gamefishing as the Bluefin tuna were found early last week but unfortunately non existent in the latter part and weekend. Albacore and Striped Tuna were caught where the Bluefin were and hopefully it was just a few quiet days and not the end of this years run. The majority of Tuna have been around 35 to 50 kilo but a couple around the 120 kilo had most anglers relishing the chance to have a crack providing the weather is right. Flathead fishing is still an option with most crews coming home with a feed and the inshore reefs are definitely worth a shot with plenty of Snapper, Morwong, Nannygai and Leather Jackets all on the chew. The only downer to the fishing has been the presence of Barracouta, cutting off baits, sinkers and lures on some days. Rock and beach fishing is still number one for finding Salmon, Tailor and Bonito and the local estuaries are a close second with Bream and Tailor heading the hit list. The Spencer Park clubrooms will be open this Friday night with Darragh Reynolds and Mark Smith on bar duty. Happy hour starts the proceedings 6.30 pm followed by the fishing report and raffles some time around 8 pm. everyone’s invited so bring a friend and enjoy a fun night.

May your reel scream, Mex ><((((º>

05-07-2010

What a difference the weather makes when travelling wide and far. Calmer conditions made for great results during the past week with anglers catching Buefin and Yellowfin tuna out over the 1000 fathom line. Blake Buckland fishing on Jedi hit the scales with a personal best Bluefin Tuna weighing at 56.5 kilos. Most of the Bluefin have been around the 40 to 55 kilo mark and hopefully a jumbo sized fish will be caught over the next few weeks. Yellowfin Tuna have also been caught but unfortunately only small fish and not the 50 kilo plus specimens found earlier in the season. Flathead fishing is also great with plenty of fish north of Merimbula and reef fishing is still firing with legal sized Snapper and Morwong on the chew. Kingfish are about and can be found on any of our local reefs or headlands and a few bonito have also been found with them. Estuary fishing is good with bream, Tailor and Trevally on the chew and Pambula River also has salmon some days keen to take a lure. Also squid are about and again any rock platforms or wharfs are the spot to try. We will be hosting this years NSWGFA annual general meeting at the Sapphire Club Merimbula over 16th, 17th and 18th July. Saturday night is trophy presentation night and if any members would like to attend please ring me 64954795 and book a seat. Greg Liddell and John McKay are on bar duty this Friday night and will start with happy hour 6.30 pm. Members and visitors all invited to enjoy a night at our Spencer Park clubhouse.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

28-06-2010

Unfortunately the winds kept coming over last weekend and due to this no crews put to sea to fish the 2nd leg of the 18th Broadbill Tournament. Let’s hope that the winds do stop over the next few weeks as reports of Bluefin up to 90 kilo have been reported. These fish are well over the shelf so we need perfect conditions to have a crack at them. People that did go to sea had a great time on Snapper fishing the inshore reefs both north and south of Merimbula. Not a lot of big fish in amongst them but plate sized fish seemed to be encountered in numbers. Morwong and Leather Jackets are also on the chew along with heaps of rubbish fish including Barracouta. Flathead have been very patchy but once found fish up to a kilo have been caught. Rock and beach fishing is still firing with plenty of Salmon and Tailor about and the local estuaries are still fishing great with Bream, Trevally, Salmon and Tailor on the chew most days. Michael Hampson and Darragh Reynolds are on bar duty this Friday night starting with happy hour 6.30 pm. Raffles and fishing report to be held during the night so bring a friend and come and enjoy a fun night at our Spencer Park clubrooms. Members and visitors al invited.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

21-06-2010

Fishing was a bit tough for anglers over the past week and hopefully things will improve. Last weekend was the first leg of the Broadbill Swordfish tournament and most crews stayed home due to a forecast of south west winds. Those that did brave the elements were rewarded with Blue Shark, Mako Shark and Tuna. We are all hoping for better conditions this weekend as the second leg of the tournament starts Friday afternoon and finishes Monday morning. Bottom fishing was also tough on the inshore reefs as the Snapper, Morwong and Leather Jackets were about but only fired up early mornings. Flathead fishing was slow but a feed was caught by most if prepared to move around until a patch could be found. Reports of Thresher Sharks on the Flathead grounds are common so live bait under a balloon is worth a shot. The surprise of the week has been schools of Striped Tuna within casting distance of the rocks and anyone looking for Salmon and Tailor with small metal lures would be in the box seat when a school of Stripies pass by. Estuary fishing has been best late in the day with Tailor up to 800 gram keen to eat bibbed lures. Tom Scott and Bill Pryor on bar duty this Friday night so come down to our club for a fun night with happy hour starting 6.30 pm followed by the beer and seafood raffle after the fishing report.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

4-06-2010

The weather is still a concern but anglers fishing on the inshore reefs have had success with Snapper, Morwong and Leather Jackets all on the chew. Hopefully this is the start of a run of reef species as they have been a bit quiet over the last month. The Flathead are a bit patchy and at this time of year can be frustrating as some days you will find a patch whilst the next you can't even lose bait. Luckily you don't have to leave shore early as many days the frogs don't come on the chew until late morning or well into the afternoon which is a complete change to the normal early morning bite happening on the warmer months. The wind being from the south west hasn't made life easy for the Gamefishing fraternity and even fishos in the estuaries are having a battle. This time of year Tailor is a target and sooner rather than later Salmon should be found in Merimbula Lake and the Pambula River. Beach fishing is a great option with the westerly winds and again Salmon and Tailor are the main species sought but Bream and Flathead can also be found. Rock and wharf fishing is also worth a shot providing the swell isn't up with all species including Arrow Head and Calamari Squid on the chew. We're hoping for some great weather conditions over the next 2 weekends as a lot of interest has been shown by anglers keen to have a crack at catching a Broadbill Swordfish. Our Broadbill Tournament is sponsored by Merimbula Tackleworld and we hope all anglers support them as they support us with sponsorship in many of our club events. Good luck and safe fishing to all participating crews and I'll see you at the tournament briefing this Thursday night 7pm. Our Spencer Park clubrooms will be open this Friday night and all members and visitors are invited. Darragh Reynolds and Barrie Francis will be on bar duty and happy hour will start 6.30 pm. Beer and seafood raffle will be around 7.30 pm so come on down and enjoy a fun night.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

07-06-2010

The weather hasn't been kind to us for the last two weeks and this if frustrating for gamefishers as plenty of Yellowfin Tuna are to be caught if the seas enable us to travel over the shelf and on to the 1000 fathom line (also known as the second drop off). For those that don't fish, this mark is about 25 mile to sea and as you can imagine weather conditions are the most important factor of the day and dictates if and when we are to be successful. Some boats were able to get out during the early part of last week and yellowfin over 50 kilos where caught north of Merimbula. Broadbill fishing is shaping up as excellent as another was caught during the day on a deep bait . The fish was over 160 kilo and is a pending Australian record. This is all sounding great for our Broadbill Tournament with the first leg starting Friday afternoon June 18th through till the following Monday morning June 21st. The second leg will be then held Friday afternoon June 25th through till Monday morning June 28th. Prizes for capture and Tag and Release of Broadbill, Shark and Tuna are up for grabs. Anyone affiliated with the Game Fishing Association of Australia is invited to compete in the 18th Merimbula Broadbill Swordfish Game Fishing Tournament. The briefing for the first leg will be held June 17th,Thursday 7 pm at the Spencer Park clubrooms. For more information call Rob 0413333598. All other forms of fishing including rock, reef, wharfs, beaches and estuaries has been tough due to the big seas, rains and wind but this will improve as the fishing gods will surely give us some decent time on the water for a few days in the weeks to come. This Friday night Greg Liddell and Johno McKay are on bar duty so come on down to the club and enjoy a few drinks and fishing stories. Beer and seafood raffle will be some time after 7.30 and is open to both members and visitors to town.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

Attached photo shows. Anglers Shannon Stokes and John Rankin with one of two Broadbill Swordfish Tagged and Released on a recent night time broadbill trip. This year has been the best for many seasons for Broadbill and this years tournament is looking very promising.

31-05-2010

Wow, what a week of rain and wind. Obviously crews that had planned to fish over the weekend hadn't a chance apart from early Saturday morning and those that did only managed a couple of Flathead and small Snapper. Beach fishing was just as bad as the seas were pounding and by Sunday only the foolhardy stepped outside there door. The weekend proved great for getting gear ready as once the seas settle inshore reef fishing and beach fishing should fire up. Estuary fishing should also improve with a lot of fish near the entrances of our estuaries away from most of the fresh water. Gamefishing should be just as exciting as there has been plenty of Yellowfin Tuna and with fingers crossed a run of Bluefin Tuna should be just around the corner. Our Broadbill Swordfish tournament will be held on June 18th, 19^th, 20th and also June 25th, 26 and 27th. All indications are that we may have a ripper of a tournament as reports of Broadbill captures and sightings have been well above average this year. Entry forms can be obtained from the club on any Friday night or ring Robert 041333359 for any information. Dave Stewart and Darragh Reynolds are on bar duty this Friday so come on down to our Spencer Park clubrooms and enjoy the club with a view. Members and visitors all invited with happy hour starting 6.30 pm followed by the fishing report and raffles. 5.30 pm Sunday nights we run our huge seafood raffle at Club Sapphire so support this and have a chance at taking out the cash jackpot which now stands at $1900.

May your reel scream, Mex .><((((º>

24-05-2010

Fishing has been great over the past week with anglers having a ball catching Yellowfin Tuna. Most of these fish have been caught over the continental shelf between the first and second drop off. Unfortunately we people that have to work for a living are finding it a bit tough as the Tuna have been lining up to take baits on weekdays but have proved a little tougher on the weekends. Our Snapper tournament sponsored by Merimbula Mowers and Marine was last weekend and plenty of plate sized Snapper between 800 grams to the kilo were caught. A few bigger fish were also about and Pella DiDonato took home the $500 cash prize for a snapper that hit the scales at 2.2 Kilo. Runner up was Shane Mayberry with a rod and reel winning fish of 1.95 kilo. Daryl Williams took out the mystery weight snapper. Plenty of Morwong, Leatherjacket, Nanaguie and gear stealing Barracouta were also caught. Flathead fishing is also firing with crews reporting reasonable catches off the grounds north of town. Estuary fishing can be a lot of fun with Salmon and Tailor caught in Pambula River and the Merimbula System. Local beaches have schools of Salmon and Tailor taking lures and Pilchards but beach worms can be a handy backup if targeting Bream and Flathead. Shane Mayberry and I are on bar duty this Friday night so drop in for a yarn and a couple of coldies. Members and visitors are all invited and happy hours starts at 6.30 pm followed up with the fishing report and raffles.

May your reel scream, Mex .><((((º>

17-05-2010

The days are starting to cool down but this doesn't mean the end of fishing. In fact it will improve with some species. One of these is Snapper fishing and after the latest bout of big seas hopefully the Snapper are in close to shore readily feeding on baits on lures. We will find out this weekend as the club is running its Snapper Classic out of Merimbula . All anglers holding a NSW fishing licence unless exempt are invited to fish this tournament. Entry fee is $50 per team consisting 2 anglers with and additional $25 per person. There are fantastic prizes on offer including cash and fishing gear. A briefing will be held this Friday, May 21st at the Spencer Park clubrooms some time after 7.30 pm. Gamefishing is still in full swing. Most of the Yellowfin caught are averaging the 50 kilo mark and have been taken on live baits and cubes out of a burley trail. Plenty of sharks and the odd Marlin have also been hooked. Flathead fishing had dropped of over the weekend but now that the seas have settled I'm sure that anglers will be a bit more successful. Beaches, headlands and local wharfs are a great option with Salmon and Tailor being the main targets. Our estuaries are slowing down but with a bit of searching plenty of Tailor can be found. Andrew Buckland and Darragh Reynolds will open the bar starting with happy hour 6.30 pm this Friday. A raffle and fishing report will be held after the Snapper Classic tournament briefing so bring a friend and enjoy a fun night at our cosy clubrooms.

May your reel scream, Mex .><((((º>

10-05-2010

Fishing is still at a premium with anglers having success when putting to sea or on our estuaries. The Tuna season is in full swing with plenty of Yellowfin averaging around 50 kilos. Boats cubing have had the most success but some days including last Saturday can be frustrating as plenty of Yellowfin were seen crashing into schools of Sauries but wouldn't touch baits or lures presented to them. When they’re on the schools of Sauries they have tunnel vision and are not interested in anything else. Albacore are also starting to show and hopefully the season will run for at least another month and be capped off with a run of Bluefin. Sharks are also on the chew but anglers must be aware that at this stage it is illegal under federal law to capture Mako Sharks unless you are fishing in a NSWGFA sanctioned tournament.

Flathead fishing is still productive and the inshore reefs are getting better with captures of Snapper, Morwong and Leatherjacket common. This is great news as we will be running our Snapper Classic on May 22nd, 23rd. Plenty of prizes on offer for this event and is open to all anglers with a current NSW fishing licence unless exempt. Entry forms can be obtained at the fishing club on Friday nights or speak to Shane 64950008. Beach fishing is great with Salmon, Tailor and Bream on the chew and all the headlands are worth a shot particularly for those that are live baiting. Estuary fishing is still good with Dusky Flathead, Bream, Trevally, Snapper and Tailor keen to take bait or lure. This Friday Darragh Reynolds will be on bar duty at the Spencer Park clubrooms and kick the night off with happy hour starting 6.30 pm. A raffle and fishing report will be held some time after 7.30 pm so bring a friend and enjoy a great social night. All members and visitors to town are most welcome.

May your reel scream, Mex .><((((º>

Attached photo shows- a 100 kilo Mako Shark now protected by federal law, cruising at the back of the boat.

19-04-2010

Estuary fishing is fantastic up and down the coast with plenty of Bream, Dusky Flathead, Snapper, Trevaly and Tailor on the bite. Beaches, headlands and wharfs are just as productive with a chance for anglers to catch Kingfish, Salmon, Tailor, Squid and even Yellowfin Tuna. Flathead fishermen are coming home with a feed but alas the reefs are still under par for this time of year. Gamefishing is cracking down our way with Marlin and Tuna caught during the past week and anglers are looking forward to our 30th Merimbula Open Gamefishing event to be held this Friday,Saturday and Sunday. The tournament briefing will be held at the Spencer Park clubrooms 7.30 pm Thursday 22nd and all GFAA members are invited. Clubrooms will also be open Friday night with Tom Scott and Bill Pryor on bar duty starting with happy hour 6.30 pm. Everyone's welcome so bring a friend and enjoy a couple of drinks overlooking the Merimbula Lake before and after the fishing report and raffles.

May your reel scream, Mex .><((((º>

12-04-2010

Fishing was much better last week with anglers finding a feed of Flathead on the grounds north of Merimbula. There were pockets of fish and some boats had trouble locating them but once found had no trouble catching a feed. Reef fishing was still quiet but will improve before our Snapper Classic competition to be held late May this year. Beach fishing is firing with Tailor over a kilo caught in numbers and Salmon keen to take baits and lures on both the beaches and headlands. Estuaries in the area are back to normal with plenty of Dusky Flathead, Trevally, Bream and Tailor all on the chew. Game Fishing is heating up with Marlin, Shark, Yellowfin and stacks of Striped Tuna caught over the week. Fish of the week goes to Blake Buckland who landed his first marlin on the weekend. Fishing on Jedi, Blake managed to capture of a 98.5 kg striped marlin. Our Merimbula Open is April 23-25th and for more information ring Rob Wood 0413333598 or come down to our Spencer Park clubrooms and pick up an entry form. Darragh Reynolds and Barry Francis will open 6.30 pm Friday and kick the night off with happy hour. Don't forget our Sunday night seafood raffle at the Sapphire Club. The bonus cash jackpot now stands at over $2,500 and all you need to have a chance at winning is buy a raffle ticket.

May your reel scream, Mex .><((((º>

05-04-2010

Fishing was at its toughest last week with most species virtually disappearing. Don't know why it happened but sometimes it does and unfortunately flathead, gummy sharks, reef species, estuaries and gamefish were in shut down mode. Thankfully they are like us and have to eat so hopefully by time you read this they will be back on the bite. Luckily the beaches, headlands and wharfs produced salmon, tailor and squid. It’s also worth a crack trying for prawns over the next few nights as the new moon will be on Wednesday 14th. Our Merimbula Open is on the 23rd-25th so I hope everyone has the gear up to scratch ready for this big event. Greg Liddell and Johno McKay are on bar duty this Friday night so bring a friend and come on down for a couple of drinks and fishing stories. Happy hour starts and 6.30 pm followed with the raffle and fishing report. Members and visitors all invited.

May your reel scream, Mex. ><((((º>

29-03-2010

Fishing was good over the weekend for the bottom bashers with nice catches of Flathead taken from the grounds north of Merimbula. Not so good for the game fishers as Marlin, Tuna, Kingfish and Sharks were rarely sighted. The rocks headlands and beaches were a better shot with Salmon, Tailor, Bonito, Bream and Whiting all on the chew. Estuary fishing was fantastic with Dusky Flathead, Trevally, Tailor, Snapper and Bream keen on taking baits and lures but again Pambula River still has that shocking weed in it. The committee has its meeting next Monday night and all members are invited to attend if wanting to and don't forget the Merimbula Open happening on April-25.

May your reel scream, Mex. ><((((º>

Photo shows- a bag of bream up to 36cm caught locally about to be released back into the system.

22-03-2010

Last week was a ripper for anglers fishing outside with great weather and most species keen to take bait or lure. Game Fishing is looking good with marlin, sharks and tuna all on the prowl. Paul Jones fishing on his boat Sea Mode had a great day Saturday catching an 86 kilo Thresher Shark of Bournda Island whilst Flathead fishing. This was a most welcome feed of flake to add to there catch of flattie fillets. Kingfish are still on and its proving to be the best season for many years with jigs, poppers and live baits all doing the job. Inshore reefs are now starting to fire and the crews that have experience and the right approach can be assured of some snapper ranging up to 2 kilo hitting the decks regularly. Local wharves and headlands are also proving fun for anglers throwing small metal jigs with plenty of salmon and Bonito on the prowl and there's also the added bonus of trying for a Squid or two. Beach fishing is also hot with plenty of Salmon and Tailor on lures and Whiting, Bream and Flathead on worms. Estuary fishing hasn't stopped since last week with many Dusky Flathead, Bream, Tailor, Trevally and small Snapper all on the chew. All in all it’s a great time of year to fish with all types of fishing worth trying. If you’re new to the area or to our sport come down to the Spencer Park clubhouse this Friday night 6.30 pm. Bar staff Shane Mayberry and Mex Williams will kick the night off with happy hour followed by a raffle and the local fishing report.

May your reel scream, Mex. ><((((º>

15-03-2010

Fishing over the last week has picked up for anglers fishing the Flathead grounds with both sand and Tiger Flathead hitting the deck regularly. Still a few Gummy Sharks caught and I'm thinking that they will come on even better as we start to get into the rising stage of the moon. Reef fishing is still a bit slow with only a few Snapper found but plenty of Kingfish, Bonito and Salmon on the prowl. Game Fishing is also great with Marlin, Mako Sarks, Dolphin Fish and Striped Tuna all encountered and again the 40 to 60 fathom line worked best for most crews. Estuary fishing has now also picked up with anglers catching Dusky Flathead, Bream, Trevally, Whiting, Tailor and Snapper in very reasonable numbers. Our Dusky Dash for Cash was held last week and Val Harvey took home the $500 cash for the longest Flathead caught and released at 80 cm. Val's team-mate Shane Shaw took out second longest catch and release Flathead at 60 cm and between the both of them took out the prize for the combined longest length of 5 fish caught coming in at 2.930 mm. Secret length flathead went to me. The Spencer Park clubrooms will be open this Friday with Andrew Buckland and Darragh Reynolds on bar duty starting with happy hour 6.30 pm. A beer and seafood raffle will be held after the fishing report so come on down for a fun night full of fishing stories and fellowship. Members and visitors to town are all invited so bring the family or a friend and enjoy our great facility on the shores of Merimbula Lake.

May your reel scream, Mex. ><((((º>

Attached photo shows- Val Harvey with his winning 80 cm Dusky Flathead caught during the Merimbula Tackle World Dusky Dash for Cash catch and release competition run by MBGALAC. This 80cm fish was the winner and a very happy Val received $500 cash for this effort.

08-03-2010

Sadly the game fishing dropped off a bit this week with marlin rarely sighted, baits disappearing and only a couple of small Yellowfin caught on the shelf. This is not all bad though as maybe we have just gone through the quiet time of the month. Great news for the bottom bouncers fishing the sand flats over the last week with sand and tiger flathead caught in reasonable numbers. Fishos that fished late in the afternoon instead of early morning also found gummy sharks on the sand but the best spots were on or near the inshore reefs and headlands as plenty of bonito; kingfish and salmon have also been on the chew. Even better news is the appearance of morwong and snapper in our waters around Merimbula but these fish can be a bit choosy and at times take baits intended for other species. Beach fishing is still at a premium with plenty of flathead, bream and whiting keen to take beach worms and the ever present salmon great on a high tide taking pilchards, surf poppers and small metal slugs. Estuary fishing has been a bit slow with all the fresh water over the last month but this should work in our favour for these weekends Dusky Dash for Cash competition to be held in the Merimbula Lake 13-14th March. Teams (minimum of two) can register at the Spencer Park clubrooms this Friday night. Team entry is $50.00 plus extra individual angler fees $25.00.All anglers have a chance at taking out the $500 cash for the longest flathead. Other prizes include a rod and reel combination retail over $200 for second longest flathead, also great prizes for a secret length flathead caught by an angler and another for the team that has the highest total combination length of flathead caught over the duration of the competition. This competition is open to not only club members but to any visitors that would like two participate. Tackle World Merimbula are our sponsors for this and many other tournaments and we thank them for there support and also ask people to visit them for tackle and information. Spencer Park 6.30 pm Friday Darragh Reynolds and Mark Smith will be busy serving drinks and nibbles to all that attend so come on down for a fun night with family and friends.

May your reel scream, Mex. ><((((º>

01-03-2010

Game fishing is at its best at the moment with bonito, kingfish, striped tuna, Yellowfin tuna, marlin and sharks all caught over the past week. Bonito, sharks and kingfish have been taken close to shore on lures and live baits whilst the majority of striped tuna, Yellowfin tuna and marlin have been taken between the 40 to 60 fathom line. The weekend proved to be a cracker with over a dozen marlin hooked up by anglers fishing out of Merimbula and Eden. The bottom bouncers fishing on the sand flats and inshore reefs are still doing it tough and unfortunately the estuary fishing isn't much better. This years Dusky Dash for Cash competition will be held March 13th and 14th in the Merimbula Lake. Entry forms will be at the clubhouse and the lucky angler that catches the longest flathead will walk away with $500. More details can be found at the clubhouse Friday night so come on down to the Spencer Park clubhouse and register for this fun event. Rob Wood and John Whittaker are on bar duty starting at 6.30 pm with happy hour and as usual a raffle will be held after the local fishing report.

May your reel scream, Mex .><((((º>

22-02-2010

Best news of all is the abundance of fish to be caught from our rock platforms, headlands and local wharfs. Bonito are thick as flees on a dogs back and salmon and kingfish are also about in big numbers. Plenty of kings over 10 kilo and fish have been taken on live baits, poppers and plastics. Marlin have been active from 40 fathoms on and have popped up when least expected. Plenty of striped tuna and some small Yellowfin tuna have also hit the deck. The local beaches are fishing just as good with salmon keen to take a bait or lure and whiting lining up to take a beachworm. Bottom bouncers are still having a hard time catching flathead on the sand and the inshore reefs are still a bit quiet. Estuary fishing has come to a screaming holt but once the waters clean up anglers can expect a red hot bite. Michael Hampson and Darragh Reynolds are on bar duty this Friday and will kick the night of with happy hour starting 6.30 pm so make sure you bring the family down as its Family night and the club will put on a barbeque for all followed by a fishing report and raffles. Members and visitors can all be assured of a great night.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

15-02-2010

Fishing was a bit hard for most unless a full set of wet weather clothes or a boat with a shed was used. Highlight of the weekend was the appearance of kingfish up to 10 kilos caught off Haycock Point. Most of the fish took weighted live baits although some anglers reported hook-ups on poppers and lures on the surface. Most other species including snapper, flathead and salmon were on holidays and didn't fire at all. Even the lake systems shut down with anglers finding dusky flathead, bream, whiting and tailor very hard to find. The grudge match between Merimbula, Pambula and Eden went ahead as scheduled and this year’s host club Merimbula was victorious with 80 points followed by Eden on 35 points and Pambula 25 points. President Shane thanked everyone that fished in tough conditions over the Friday, Saturday and Sunday and a special thanks to Barrie Francis and many other members that helped in our catering needs for Sunday afternoon’s luncheon and presentation. We have earned the right to retain the trophies in our clubrooms for another 12 months and will defend them in the coming season. Our next big fishing event will be the Dusky Dash for Cash on March 13th-14th and the winner will take home $500 cash. Other prizes will also be on offer so mark this down on the calendar. More on this to follow soon. Tom Scott will kick off 6.30 Friday night at the Spencer Park clubhouse with happy hour followed by the fishing report and raffles. All members and visitors welcome so bring a friend and sample a drink or two at our fantastic venue on the water.

08-02-2010

Fishing came to a screaming holt due to rain and wind but I'm sure no one is complaining and is happy to take time out and prepare for the next time on the water. Good news is that the ocean flathead came on the bite before the weather set in and estuary species will fire especially near the entrances of the lake systems. Rock, reef and beach fishing should also pick up and now is the time to target snapper. This is all good for this weekends Inter Club grudge match between Eden, Pambula and Merimbula fishing clubs. Fishing starts on the Friday afternoon and finishes Sunday noon followed by a meal and presentations at the Spencer Park Clubrooms. We are hoping for a big turn out and ask that people bring either a salad or sweet to help in the catering. Please ring Shane 64950008 regarding food so we can organize a feed for all. Don't forget that we have a meat raffle at Club Sapphire Tura 6pm Thursday nights and a seafood raffle 5.30 pm Sunday nights at Club Sapphire Merimbula and again ask all club members to support these events. Darragh Reynolds and Barrie Francis will be on duty this Friday night and hopefully some of us will be weighing in quality fish for the grudge match. A selection of drinks and nibbles will be offer to club members and visitors with happy hour starting at 6.3.0 pm.

01-02-2010

Fishing for flathead on the grounds off Merimbula proved to be very tricky for all anglers. Not many were caught but fortunately some nice gummy sharks up to 10 kilo were caught. Inshore reefs were a bit patchy but excellent catches of salmon were caught from Tura Headland, Short Point and Haycock area. Always pays to fish for these with heavier gear than normal in case a kingfish turns up. All the local estuaries are firing with plenty of bream, dusky flathead, flounder, snapper, trevally, whiting and tailor all lining up to be caught. Game fishing is good with striped tuna and Yellowfin caught over the week. Even better news is the rise in water temperature above 20 degrees with marlin sighted and caught from 30 fathoms to the second drop off. Also good to hear that some crews were lucky enough to troll up dolphin fish and as usual the majority of fish were found wherever schools of bait were present. So true is the saying that you don't leave fish to find fish. We hope to get a big roll up of members for the interclub grudge match held between Eden, Pambula and Merimbula on the 12th -14th March. We are the host club this year and we ask all to bring a salad or sweet to compliment the barbeque lunch to be had on Sunday afternoon followed by presentation of winners over the weekend. We also are running a raffle at the Sapphire Club Tura Beach on Thursday nights starting 6pm.We have 8 meat trays, bottles of wine and club vouchers on offer and ask all to support both our fishing club and Club Sapphire by attending this fun night. Greg Liddell and John McKay are on duty this Friday night and members and visitors are all invited to head down to the Spencer Park clubrooms starting 6.30 pm with happy hour kicking off the night’s proceedings.

25-01-2010

Fishing at sea turned out to be a bit tougher last week through high winds and the disappearance of the hot water encountered over the last few weeks. Its not all bad news though as the warm water is now back and with it marlin have been hooked as close to shore as 40 fathoms in with the schools of striped tuna and mackerel. Kingfish are also on the chew with Mowary and Greencape being the most consistent but fish have also been taken from the local Merimbula headlands. The big numbers of tiger flathead have moved on but anglers fishing in close to shore still managed to catch plenty of sandys up to a kilo. Gummy sharks are still being caught regularly and are a welcome bonus to all anglers when fishing for flathead or on the reef edges. The inshore reefs are also patchy with morwong and leatherjackets being the main species to take a bait and the estuaries are still firing with dusky flathead, trevaly,whiting and bream all keen to a bait or lure. Don't forget the grudge match coming up between Eden, Pambula and ourselves on February 13th &14th. We are the host club this year and will need as many people as possible to help on the Sunday afternoon to feed all who attend and everyone to fish over the weekend to show our southern peers how to catch a fish or two. Dave Stewart and Darragh Reynolds will open the Spencer Park clubrooms 6.30 pm this Friday with happy hour to start the night off.Plenty of drinks and nibbles on offer and a raffle will be drawn after the local fishing report.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

11-01-2010

Fishing is great with heaps of flathead on the chew caught in waters north of town and if anything has improved on last week as the inshore reefs are now starting to fire with reports of snapper hitting the decks when fishing Haycock and further south. Game fishing is starting to get into top gear as marlin have started to be seen in numbers and plenty of striped tuna and the odd mahi-mahi have been caught. Estuary fishing is great with all species on the bite and beach fishing is still firing with salmon and tailor on lures and pilchards and bream, whiting and flathead keen to take worms and cockles. This Friday Shimano in association with Merimbula Tackle World will present the Shimano Road Show at Spencer Park Merimbula. It starts with a Junior Catch and Release Fishing Festival from 11am-4pm. 12 Shimano Combos and winning sashes are to be won plus plenty of mystery prizes. Age Categories are sub juniors, girls and boys up to 10 years and junior girls and boys 11 years to 16 years. $3.00 entry forms are now available at Merimbula Tackle World or from the fishing club Friday morning 9.30 am. The actual Shimano Road Show runs from 5.30pm-7.30 pm with raffles, fishing clinic, BBQ, refreshments, prizes and lots of give aways. Top anglers Bushy, Brett Wilson and Chris Wright will also be present so a great night is guaranteed. The clubhouse will also be open to members and visitors and both Darragh Reynolds and Andrew Buckland will be on duty serving nibbles and drinks.

May your reel scream, Mex><((((º>

04-01-2010

Our 2010 Gala Weekend was held last weekend and thankfully the weather was picture perfect on the Saturday with boats finding quality sized tiger and sand flathead north of Merimbula from 20 metres to 80 meters of water. Gummy sharks, gurnard and whiting were very quiet but the biggest downer was the presence of the gear pinching Chinaman leatherjackets. Everyone lost plenty of sinkers, hooks and trace gear once the sun lifted over the horizon and again I will say that you must be early to not lose the gear as the mongrel pinching guys don't seem to come out till 7am or later. The reefs are still much hit and miss with only a few snapper caught but morwong, nannygai and leatherjackets were all keen to take bait. Estuary fishing is still on fire with plenty of dusky flathead, bream, trevally and tailor on the chew and yes the beaches are still producing salmon and tailor. Game fishing was a little quiet with the kingfish only turning up on the odd occasions down south and marlin and Yellowfin were scarce. Striped tuna were caught from 40 fathoms to over the shelf and plenty of small Mako sharks were found by anglers when drifting for bottom fish. The weekend was a success and the Pambula District Hospital will receive a donation from the proceeds of the fish auction held on Sunday afternoon. A very big thankyou to the 65 local sponsors, without them this weekend would not happen. The Shimano Road Show in association with Bluewater Sports Tackle world Merimbula will be held on 15th January 5.30-7.30. It’s a great afternoon with a fishing competition for all juniors 16 years of age or under. Plenty of activities happening for all others including, raffles, BBQ, refreshments, prizes to be won and plenty of give aways. Gun anglers Bushy, Brett Wilson and Chris Wright will be there so there's no excuses, hop on down to the Spencer Park clubrooms for a great time. This Friday night 6.30 Darragh Reynolds and Mark Smith will start the night’s proceedings with happy hour followed by the local fishing report and raffle. Members and visitors are all invited so come on down to the Spencer Park clubrooms for a refreshing ale or soft drink and enjoy the fellowship while taking in the views of our great lake and town.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

28-12-2009

Both visitors and locals alike are happy with the fishing here in Merimbula over this festive season.

Flathead fishing is as good as it gets on most of the sand areas North and South of town and gummy shark, gurnard and whiting on the chew is a bonus.

Kingfish are still about in numbers and can be found on any of our local reefs, wharfs and headlands but as usual the best grounds are to the South at Greencape and Mowary.

Gamefishing is firing with striped tuna taking small skirted lures but anglers should be dragging bigger lures on heavier tackle as marlin have been hooked on light gear over the weekend.

Reef fishing is probably the toughest way to catch a feed but with an early morning start, plenty of patience and burley a feed of snapper, morwong, nannygai and leatherjacket isn't out of the question.

Beach fishing is still great with salmon and tailor keen to take lures and pilchards whilst Main Beach, Merimbula is normally the best if targeting bream and whiting on beach worms.

Estuary fishing is brilliant with dusky flathead, bream, trevaly, whiting, snapper, flounder and tailor all on the bite.

As you can see all is looking great for our Gala Weekend this Saturday and Sunday and we are hoping for a big roll up of anglers. Over 30 prizes are on offer and the weekend will finish with the fish auction held on the Sunday afternoon. Net proceeds from the auction will go to the Pambula District Hospital. Entry forms can be found any time at Merimbula Tackle World or at the clubhouse this Friday night. Rob Wood and John Whittaker will open the Spencer Park clubhouse doors 6.30 pm and start the night off with happy hour. A raffle will be held after the local fishing report and all members and visitors are invited to attend. Shimano in association with Merimbula Tackle World presents the Shimano Road Show in Merimbula on the 15 th January. Its all happening at Merimbula Big Game and Lakes Angling Club at Spencer Park 5.30pm-7.30 pm. A kids fishing competion, raffles, fishing clinic, BBQ, refreshments, prizes to be won, lots of give aways. Don't miss out on this great afternoon as there will be something for all ages.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

21-12-2009

Fishing hasn't changed over the last week and anglers fishing for flathead are coming home with plenty of sand and tiger flathead. All the grounds both north and south are firing and a few gummy sharks, flying gurnard and whiting have also been taken. Out wide the fishing is just as good with harpooka and blue eye trevalla caught and game fishing is on the up with striped tuna taken within a stones throw off the rocks. Kingfish are still proving fickle with fish on the bite one day but not the next. The grounds south of Eden are the best but in saying that many kings were found on most of the grounds around Merimbula. A tape measure is needed though as the majority of fish are under the legal length. Reef fishing hasn't been brilliant but with time and effort a few morwong, snapper and leatherjacket have hit the decks. The local wharfs and rock platforms are worth a try early morning and late in the afternoon with a few squid being caught when not trying for kingfish. Estuary fishing is brilliant with all species on the chew and yes the beaches are still fun with plenty of salmon and tailor to be found. Hopefully all anglers in town will fish our Gala Fishing Competition 2nd &3rd January. Entry fees are adults $20 children $5 or family $25 and there are over 30 prizes on offer. Our monster fish auction will be held 2.30pm Sunday 3rd January and we will gratefully accept any fish donated from the entire weekend. The net proceeds made from the auction will be donated to the Pambula District Hospital and we hope that we get the weather and the fish for this very special weekend. The Spencer Park clubhouse will not be open this Friday 25th December but will be open on New Years Eve if we have an indication of good numbers wanting to come to the club to see in the New Year and take in the fireworks display. If you are attending please ring Shane 64950008 to ensure that we open up the club. On behalf of President Shane Mayberry and the committee of the Merimbula Big Game & Lakes Angling Club I would like to wish everyone a merry Christmas and happy new year.

May your reel scream, Mex.

07-12-2009

Fishing over the last week has been generally good with anglers reporting catching fish everywhere even though the wind made it tough on some days. The crew on Billfisher had a great day Sunday coming home with blue-eye trevalla and Harpooka fishing beyond the 100 fathom line. Plenty of striped tuna about but unfortunately no Yellowfin sighted. The flathead are still on the chew on all the usual grounds north and south of town and still a few gummy sharks, gurnard and whiting hit the decks. The inshore reefs can be a little unpredictable but most crews found leatherjacket, morwong and snapper most days. Beach fishing is still good with salmon found most days and estuary fishing is getting better each week with all species on the bite. This Friday night Tom Scott and Bill Pryor will open the clubhouse 6.30pm in readiness for our children's Christmas party. Parents need to speak to Shane 0428424496 regarding gifts from Santa to ensure all the kids and adults have a good night. Members and visitors are welcome and a beer and seafood raffle will be held after the local fishing report.

May your reel scream, Mex.

30-11-2009

Fishing slowed down outside with reef fishing coming to a stand still over the weekend. Luckily the flathead still had a go although they weren’t as easy to find as in earlier in the week. The other factor was the wind and the change of weather and hopefully when this settles the fish will be back on the chew. One interesting point was that the Chinaman leatherjackets weren’t thick north of Long Point on Saturday but were thick as thieves south of Long Point and found both over the sand and reef areas. Game fishing can be a bit hot and cold but the crew on the boat Sea Mode had a great day Sunday catching Yellowfin and striped tuna north of Merimbula in 1000 fathoms of water. Estuary fishing is still a great option with all species on the chew in most of our local waters. Plenty of whiting, dusky flathead, trevally, salmon,tailor,bream and snapper all keen in taking bait and lures. Beach fishing is great with plenty of salmon and tailor and I'm sure that beach worms will produce whiting, flathead and bream this time of year. Our children’s Christmas party will be held December 11th and all parents going are asked to contact president Shane 0428424496 to ensure that all kids receive a gift from Santa and we all have a feed on the night. This Friday Darragh Reynolds and Barrie Francis will open the Spencer Park clubhouse with happy hour starting 6.30 pm. Plenty of drinks and nibbles on offer to members and visitors and as usual a raffle will be held after the fishing report.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

16-11-2009

What a fantastic week of fishing we had with anglers reporting great weather and fish in big numbers. Flathead fishermen were very happy with great catches of sand and tiger flathead caught on all the inshore grounds. The added bonus of gummy sharks and monster gurnard were also caught more often than not. Trick is to get out at daybreak to beat the gear stealing leatherjackets as they don't seem to get into attack mode until after 8 am. Even the local reefs have started to fire with a few snapper and morwong on the chew. Salmon are being taken from the headlands and beaches and yes the kingfish are still putting in an appearance off Long Point, Haycock and all local reefs on any given day. The only problem with the kingies is trying to work out when and where each day as they could turn up anywhere anytime. Estuary fishing is also producing thumping dusky flathead and a few bream, trevally, tailor, whiting and flounder which isn't surprising as the water temperature has risen to 24 degrees Celsius in most of our estuaries. 14 teams fished the Merimbula Tackle World Tri-Estuary Challenge and again the Bega River proved to be the most popular spot and both the longest bream and flathead came from there. Merimbula Lake provided the biggest trevally and tailor and Pambula had heaps of whiting happy to take surface lures. Friday night 27th Nov our club will be the venue for a meeting held by fisheries regarding the possible stocking of fish in our local estuaries. Fisheries has invited all club members and the public to attend and would like to hear any input from local fishos regarding estuaries. For more information on this call president Shane 64950008. This Friday Dave Stewart and Darragh Reynolds will open the club with happy hour starting 6.30 pm. Members and visitors all invited with a range of drinks and fellowship all on offer. As usual a raffle will be held after the fishing report so come on down and spend a couple of hours at the club with a view on the shores of our beautiful lake.
May your reel scream, Mex.

09-11-2009

Game fishing is well worth a shot as anglers fishing the second drop off found yellowfin to 25 kilos during the week. Albacore were also caught and some of these were in as close as 60 fathoms. This time of year a burly trail could produce either tuna or sharks and hopefully marlin are only a couple of months away. Green cape and Mowary is still the place to go for kingfish but are still patchy as one day there on and not the next. Anglers fishing the 40 fathom mark were smashed by gear pinching leatherjackets but the best news is plenty of tiger flathead up to 800 grams are on the inshore grounds. Beach fishing is still producing salmon and this weekends Merimbula Tackle World Tri-Estuary Challenge should be a ripper. Plenty of cash and fishing gear on offer and competitors can fish the Merimbula Lake, Bega River or Pambula Lake. Contact Dave Stewart for more information 0403198997 or be at the Merimbula Big Game and Lakes Angling Clubrooms at Spencer Park for the tournament briefing held this Friday 7.30 pm. This competition is open to all anglers holding a current NSW fishing licence, or are exempt from holding one. President Shane Mayberry and myself will open the bar starting with happy hour 6.30 pm and expect plenty of trade from members and visitors to our club. A fishing report and raffle will be held after the tournament briefing so come along to night of fun.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

01-11-2009

Fishing was tough over the last week with anglers having trouble with strong winds happening most days. Those that did get a good day found flathead on most of the grounds but again had to fight to get a feed due to the mongrel gear pinching leatherjackets. Even fishing with heavy trace doesn't mean that you won’t get bitten off as they will also have a go at knots and swivels. Down south both Greencape and Mowarry is still a great option with kingfish up to a meter in length hitting the decks. There is also the added bonus of snapper and gummy sharks caught so the short trip by road to Eden or 20 minute run by sea is well worth the effort. If travelling by sea it’s always a good plan to fill your live bait tank at Merimbula Wharf on the way past. Beach fishing is still a fun way of spending an hour or two on the top of the tide with plenty of salmon happy to take baits and lures. Estuary fishing is also on the up with the water temperature now up near the 20 degree mark. This will improve the fishing by a country mile with bream, dusky flathead, trevaly, salmon and tailor all lining up to take bait or lure. It’s the right time of year for the keen anglers to put in some night trips for jewfish and already I have heard of a jewie being caught last week. We are hoping for great weather on the 14th -15th November as we will be running the Merimbula Tackle World Tri-Estuary Challenge. Registration forms are available at the club rooms for this fantastic competition. Tournament cash prizes will be awarded for longest bream $500 longest dusky flathead $300 longest tailor $150 and longest trevally $150. Other prizes include fishing tackle and a lucky entry draw. For more information contact Dave Stewart 0403198997. This Sunday will be a ripper with our annual Mandeni golf challenge. Ring Gerald 64959541 if you intend hitting off. Starting around 10 pm with a bring your own BBQ after the golf then followed up with activities including golf range and bocce. Andrew Buckland and Darragh Reynolds will be on bar duty this Friday night starting with happy hour from 6.30 pm. The usual beer and seafood raffle sponsored by McKay’s Discount Oysters will be held after the local fishing report and both members and visitors are invited.

May your reel screem, Mex.><((((º>

26-10-2009

Anglers fishing outside had success on the flathead grounds with a mixed bag of tiger and sand flathead during the week. The best spot by far were the deeper grounds on 40 fathoms with tigers hitting the deck up to 900 grams. Most of the sandys were found on the inshore grounds between 15 and 25 fathoms. The worst news to hear was the arrival of gear pinching chinaman leatherjackets turning up again. They can be an absolute pest but if you want a feed of jackets fish in deeper water as usually the bigger fish are out wide. Kingfish are on most peoples minds and are having a crack down Greencape and Mowary but some nice fish have also been taken from Long Point and Haycock Point. Beaches are still firing with tailor and salmon and I'm sure a light rod with beach worm would be successful if chasing bream and whiting. Estuary fishing is getting better with the passing of each week and big numbers of trevaly are now on the bite. Still plenty of salmon moving about in Merimbula Lake with a few monster tailor keen to destroy anglers without trace gear. This Friday Darragh Reynolds and Mark Smith will open the bar with happy hour starting 6.30 pm. Its a family night BBQ and a gold coin donation is all that is asked from members and visitors who participate. The beer and seafood raffle sponsored by McKays Discount Oysters will be after the local fishing report some time after 7.30pm. Two important dates to remember are the Mandeni Golf day November 8th, ring Gerald 64959541 to registrar and November 14-15 the Tri-Estuary Challenge. Entry forms at the club or ring Dave Stewart 0403198997 for details.

May your reel scream, Mex.><((((º>

New Limited Edition

We have designed a new Club Competition Shirt.  The design depicts the club as a whole with most of the species we chase, within the centre and sleeve bands and embossed in gold are: Marlin/Broadbill, Tuna, Shark, Salmon/Tailor, Trevally, Bream and Flathead.

The body of the garment shows shallow light blue water cascading to deep blue, therefore depicting the Big Game and Lakes Angling sides of our great club.

Sizing: These garments are AUSTRALIAN made and are Australian sizes, meaning if you take a Medium now then order a medium. Sizes go from children’s normally by their age through to 5XL.  The shirts have a 50% UV rating under Australian Standards 4399. Having worn this garment I can assure that they are cool in summer by allowing perspiration to be drawn away from the body and are also warm in winter.

Members $65

Non Members $75

Club Tracksuit

Fabric Microfibre peach finish fabric with 100% polyester. Feature Microfibre with mesh lining. Sleeves are half lined with woven fabric.

Embroidery of Club Logo

Name Embroided

Sizes XXS- 3XL

Club Polo

Cooldry 100% Polyester micromesh moisture management polo with contrast    shoulder, side and back panels with contrast piping. Slim Fitting

165 GSM

Embroidery of Club Logo

Name Embroided

Sizes XS-5XL

Club Footy Jumper

100% combed Cotton rugby knit with cotton drill collar, herringbone placket with rubber buttons and contrast rib cuffs. Contrast shoulder and side panels and piping.

280 GSM

Embroidery of Club Logo

Name Embroided

Sizes XS-5XL

Plain Members $45

Non Members $50

With Name Members $53

Non Members $59

Plain Members $40

Non Members $45

With Name Members $45

Non Members $55

Plain Members $55

Non Members $65

With Name Members $60

Non Members $69

Club Baseball Cap

CH18 Traditional

Heavy Brushed Cotton with sandwich Peak Cap

Embroided

One Size Fits All

Club Bucket Hat

Brushed Cotton

Embroided

Club Vest

Full Front Zip, Draw Cord, Toggle and Side Pockets. These popular vests provide warmth while allowing freedom and arm movements.

Embroidery of Club Logo

Name Embroided

Size S-5XL

Members $15

Non Members $16.50

Members $15

Non Members $16.50

Plain Members $42

Non Members $53

With Name Members $48

Non Members $59

Buckenderra Trout Fishing Trip - Nov 29th - Dec 3rd

Happy Hour Every Friday Night 6:30pm till 7:30pm

2010

Club Trip - Wonboyn October 16th & 17th

Tri-Estuary  - November 13th &14th

Christmas Party - December 10th

2011

Gala Weekend - January  8th & 9th

Junior and Sub Junior Fishing Festival  - January 15th

Inter Club Grudge Match - February  TBA

Kids Fishing Comp - February 11th

Dusky Dash for Cash - March TBA

Broadbill Comp March 11th - 13th  and 18th - 20th

Seafood Dinner - March TBA

Pirtek Fishing Challenge - April 10th

Merimbula Open - April 23rd to 25th

Snapper Classic - May 28th & 29th

Broadbill Comp - June TBA

Tri-Estuary  - November 13th & 14th

Christmas Party  - December 10th