The freshwater scene is alive and well in southeast Queensland, with downstream angling back in full swing and impoundment fishing producing good results. Things are looking good!

Bass have been active in North Pine and Kurwongbah recently, with the average fish around 40cm. Goldens are always a challenge for land based anglers at these dams, but this is your pick time, so don’t miss out.

Bait fishing is always popular in the dams. In regards to hook size, a larger hook size from 1/0 upwards will still take all native species and is less likely to harm fish for release, as larger hooks will more often hang up in the mouth rather than in the throat or gullet.

All fly anglers should keep an eye on local hatches and remember that there is just as much going on under the surface as on the top. Watch for saratoga as things continue to warm up, and good luck with all our native favourites.

With the last of those cooler nights behind us, late spring and summer species are on our minds. Whiting of all types can be caught all year round, but hotter months bring out the best in southeast Queensland. We have abundant locations to chase whiting and all the baits they love such as yabbies, bloodworms, beachworms and soldier crabs are all in good supply. When using soldier crabs, the smaller, darker crabs are a better option.

Bream are still active and more action further up our estuaries is the norm as water warms. Flathead are in full swing and good catches have been reported right across the region. Jacks will be present in all estuaries as normal and will be taking hardbodies and plastics fished hard into the structure.

Sandgate, Redcliffe, Deception Bay and Beachmere are good locations this time of year with all species on offer. So make the most of this fantastic coastline.

Reports from the river lately are a bit sketchy, but don’t panic; past seasons will confirm that this can be normal for October. Whiting are an exception in this area with good catches from the mouth to Colmslie, with bloodworms still the pick bait.

Flathead from the mouth and surrounding flats are making up the numbers for some anglers. For those prepared to look, snapper are there all year round, although size may decrease in the warmer months.

Threadfin salmon should increase in numbers from now on and provide great sport on light to medium gear.

Moreton Bay in October can mark the end of an important transition period for a lot of anglers; with cooler water well and truly gone, attention is turned to other species. Cobia have been caught lately by many of our customers. The artificial reefs in the bay can be very productive areas for these fish, so a bit of homework on these locations is well worth it.

Plastics or lightly weighted baits such as pillies or yakkas seem to be the most effective presentations. Information on these reefs, in the form of free info sheets, is available from all good tackle stores.

Snapper and sweetlip are still on offer but size will decrease in some locations. Mud and Peel islands just keep on giving, so let’s do our best to only take what we need and look after both of these great fish habitats.

At The Tackle Shop we are continually expanding our range. We now have a lot of new products in store at very competitive prices. We have something for everyone, from beginner to expert. Also, we still have the largest ranges of fresh and frozen baits in Brisbane.

Our business hours are from 5.30am - 6pm Monday to Friday, Saturday from 4am - 6pm and Sunday 4am – 4pm.

If you would like more information on techniques, locations or for an up to date fishing report please give us a call on (07) 3862 9015 or just call into 1754 Gympie Rd, Carseldine (The Caltex service centre on the way out of town).