As there have been strong 25-30 knot winds, the opportunities to get offshore have been few and far between. Most anglers have been heading to the sheltered corners and the islands of the river instead.

The fishing gods have emerged from hibernation with a bad dose of the northerly winds, yet there have been some rare moments to get offshore and head to the southern gutters. Reds, sweetlip, parrot and hussar made for a great day and provided an opportunity to test the new stainless props.

Mackerel have been unseasonably patchy for this time of year with some days producing bag limit hauls and other days your pilchard is returned to the boat well washed. After some enquiries, as far north as Townsville, there have been reports that the mackerel schools have not yet began to migrate south. Hopefully that will change by the end of October.

Snapper are still on in small numbers, but at least they keep the offshore action interesting.

One recent adventure to the 8 Mile saw two reel clutches burnt out and many busted rigs, thought to be the result of mackerel. However, it was soon realised mackerel were not the only sport busting up the gear after a ripper tuna was landed. The tuna have come to feast and are very aggressive; just what we have been waiting for!

Tip: use a running ball rig with single 6-9/0 hook terminal tackle or 100-150lb leader and jig for slimies (use live).

Burrum Heads enjoys the privilege of hosting many wonderful visitors and guests at this time of year, with all family members getting amongst the action. Visitors are once again enjoying the spoils of their visit as the Burrum River has continued to produce the goods with quality flathead, mulloway, good bream and summer and winter whiting on hand to keep the whole family entertained.

Mother Nature is spending her time ensuring order is brought back into balance; we have seen encouraging signs with dugongs returning to the Burrum after a two year absence to feed on newly generated sea grass since the floods of the last couple of years.

There are some great family shore-based action through Toogoom waterways, as well as great whiting, and often we pack a picnic and head off with our poles and see what we can do. Grunter, jacks, cod and bream are a great light gear sporting feature for all the family.

Simple bait, like mullet strips, yabbies, and peeled prawns, on running ball rig will work a treat when visiting Toogoom.

Lastly, the muddies are getting fired up again so bring a pot or two for a good chew.

Some of the best all-round fishing is on the east coast right here at Burrum Heads. We have mapped several offshore adventures over the next month with some light gear trips into the Burrum. We have had many families enjoy our great corner of the world and look forward to seeing you.

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Flathead have been great in the rivers with fish like this reasonably common.