One of the many great things about fishing would have to be witnessing a mate catch a new species for the very first time! Recently I had the opportunity to fish with a fellow keen angler who is based down in NSW. He had been wanting to tick jungle perch off the list for a very long time and I was more than happy to help!

We explored a stunning creek that led us deep into the rainforest. It didn’t take long and he had his first beautiful JP! We were as happy as each other. Up here in the tropical north we are extremely privileged to have this beautiful species right at our doorsteps. They take you into some of the most incredible landscapes and are a true freshwater sportfish on the light finesse gear.

The cooler weather at this time of year is perfect for exploring the many freshwater streams that the tropical north has to offer. The wildlife along the way can be just as good as the fishing in most cases, so make sure you take your camera to capture some of nature’s finer moments.

One of our toughest native freshwater species, sooty grunter are a real line-peeling brute when land-based fishing. A nice little 1000 size spin reel fitted to a light flicking rod is the perfect weapon when out-luring this little beast of a species! Casting spinnerbaits deep into structure will certainly get the strikes from these little football-shaped critters. Remember, these fish pull hard. Have a nice tight drag and be ready for some serious finesse action!

Even though the temperature has dropped there have still been plenty of sweet water jacks hitting lures when those casts are landing right in their faces! Mangrove jack are one of my favourite species to target and require patience and some fancy rod work to land them. That’s all part of the fun! A truly intelligent hunting machine, these guys sure know how to fight dirty.

I hope everyone has the chance to get out and explore what this great country has to offer. Remember, a fisher will never remember every fish they catch, but they will always remember the places it takes them.