March really is a great time for fishing on the Tweed River and its tributaries. The change of season brings about a crossover period in target species, so you can really be spoilt for choice.

The water temperatures will still remain quite high, so your summer species like mangrove jack and whiting will continue for most lure fishers this month. You could expect a good surface bite on the jacks over the next few weeks, just hit your usual spots in low light periods and be sure to get tight to cover on your first cast, as you often only have one chance with the bigger specimens.

Local angler Brock Perry has had a stellar jack season on surface lures. Lucky Craft G-Splash and ZMan Trick SwimZ have been his go-to lures. Adopting new techniques and the art of stealth has seen him braining this sometimes frustrating species. Once jack fishing has you hooked, it will be sure to keep you awake the night before an early session, pondering what it might be. Preparation is key this late in the season, so leave nothing to chance.

Hitting the water early has its benefits, as the water’s surface temperature will be slightly cooler than previous months and the days will begin to shorten. This is prime time for chasing the big flathead that will be moving throughout the system. All luring techniques have their day, but hopping plastics on the drop-offs toward the bottom of the tide, trolling the flooded flats at the top, or ripping blades and vibes in the deeper holes mid-tide should get you some fresh fillets. Just remember to put all those big girls back!

Later in the month, the big tides of the new moon are looking good to start chasing school mulloway. Try the bridges on the tide change at night. Soft plastics, vibes or live baits are the way to go, and the deeper holes in the mid to upper reaches will be well worth a look as well, especially if it has been dry.

Before too long we will be donning hoodies and beanies chasing tailor and bream which, as rewarding as that can be, doesn’t quite cut the mustard in comparison to our more temperate species.

• Get out there and make the most of it this month, be safe and courteous on the water and be sure to drop in to Anglers Warehouse for the best range and best prices in town, or visit the website at www.anglerswarehouse.com.au