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Beating back the jacks
  |  First Published: June 2015



I just got back home from a great session chasing JP in one of my favourite systems up the road. But the only trouble was the sweet water jacks were beating them to my lures!

This time last year the rivers were well and truly flushed out and it was hard work getting the jacks in the crystal clear streams. But this year the lack of rainfall has kept the little read devils very active, which has made for some exciting finesse fishing.

Jacks are renowned for being hard hitting fighting machines and that goes for the juveniles in the freshwater! I like to go as light as I can when targeting these guys. Even though the average size of these fellas are around the 30cm mark, let me assure you sweet water jacks can be some of the most exciting land-based fishing available. Focus your casting at areas that provide cover, concealment, bends in the system and flowing water that will flush food towards them. They will be waiting on ambush for innocent offerings like your grub tail plastic that looks too good to resist!  

The sooty grunter have been doing what they do best and that’s smashing just about any lure that lands in their strike zone. Renowned as one of our toughest freshwater species these brutes are an awesome species. They pull like freight trains and can be caught in big numbers when a little research is used to locate the best streams. You can target them in the jungle or more inland depending on whatever environment you decide. They will take a number of artificial presentations including one of my favourite the 4’’ StreakZ Curly TailZ. Made from the durable Z-Man Elaztek these are a great medium-sized lure that will withstand a beating all day catching you plenty of these hard hitters. 

This month will offer the keen angler plenty of illusive jungle perch action. The cooler weather keeps the march flies and mosquitoes away when exploring the skinny water in search of those bigger fish over the 40cm mark. The most important things to remember when targeting this amazing fish is stealth! These fish rely heavily on what’s going on outside the water, so anything that is unnatural will shut them down and you may miss out on that trophy catch.

It’s not always possible, but try to fish from downstream and work your way up the higher ground. The flowing water will mask your noise and scent. Also your lure will look more realistic flowing downstream naturally. This style of fishing really tests your finesse angling skills. It is such a great way to enjoy some beautiful country while targeting a truly unique fish. 

There are plenty of fish waiting for your lures! So get out there and enjoy the magic that is waiting for you. Take care and see you out there! 

Reads: 1977

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