We have had an unusually annoying cold august here in Kurumba which has caused a later start than usual to the blue salmon run.

Fortunately the days are getting longer and we will start to see them use the warmer water out the front on the sand flats to breed. They will be a good option this month due to this late start so take the opportunity to get the family out there and catch some tasty blue salmon when the wind is calm. Just remember the days are getting hotter so be sure to drink enough water whilst out fishing; dehydration is no fun sitting out in the boat!

September is the time to dust the lures off and hunt the mighty barramundi as they head out towards the mouth of the river to breed. They have been laying around in the colder climate waiting for this moment to get active as the water warms up.

Trolling lures like Lance Butler’s Need Nose in blue or gold along the rock bar past the power lines should hopefully result in a few barra in the boat. Work the outside bends in the river will also be productive providing you make sure your lure is continually bumping along the bottom.

My weapon of choice is the G.Loomis Crankbait cr756 6-12kg rod and a Berkley inshore reel spooled with Schneider 30lb braid. The best and cheapest leader is the Schneider 55lb mono leader; I find it very durable and reliable in amongst the snags and rock bars.

Just a reminder our barramundi season shuts on midday October 4 and doesn't reopen until midday the January 30 2012, so please avoid the temptation to chase them after the 4th because it will effect their breeding and we will have less fish to chase in the future.

This month is a good time to visit Normanton and fish the old bridge over the Norman river. Relax and enjoy your dinner as the sun goes down and then start fishing once the lights take effect. You can target both king salmon and barramundi on the edge of the light with live bait working the best.