It has been relatively easy rounding up an esky of nice reef fish as this time of year produces reliable results. From the closer-in reefs, 2 to 4 miles offshore, quality snapper are being caught to 6kg, as well as cod, scarlet perch, pearl perch, parrot and sweetlip.

Further offshore snapper were again a welcome sight, and although they seemed to be smaller than those on the close reefs, the numbers were found to be more plentiful. Pearl perch, Moses perch, red emperor and an abundance of husser were also on the bite.

Atrocious weather hindered the Rainbow Beach Fishing Classic. From the Wednesday through to the Saturday fishers experienced strong winds, huge swells and rains that kept most of us indoors. However, some small craft decided to ventured out into these extremely dangerous conditions. I cross the Wide Bay Bar all year round but there was no chance of me taking such a risk.

One boat capsized but thankfully no one was hurt. I hope we see some changes in the competition rules next year.

Good beach fishing produced tailor, decent-sized bream and dart prior to the big swell and winds.

As the sea pounded against the shore, sand eroded and weed stirred up rendering beach fishing almost impossible. Since then beach conditions have settled.

Winter whiting have turned up in force, with early morning hotspots around Pelican Bay. They may be a small fish, but they are also very tasty and great fun for novices and kids. When fishing in this area it would pay to put live whiting on a separate line; this is known to be successful at attracting flathead.

At the bottom end of Fraser Island sizable flathead are being caught and quality summer whiting are there for the taking too.

Chopper tailor are being caught at Teebah Ledge in the late afternoon on blue pilchards.

If you would like to have a fish with Ed Falconer on his charter boat Keely Rose, give him a call on 0407 146 151.