So far, the winter weather has been kind to us all. Mild, sunny and windless days have made the fishing a pleasure. The water temperature has dropped to around 11 degrees Celsius, however there has been warmer water outside, 13.5 degrees, which could explain why a lot of gummies are still being caught this far into winter.

Neville Lowe has continued to catch his bag of gummies every week. The big one in the photo went 10kg. This goes to show that the gummies really don’t ever leave. It’s just those anglers who are willing to brave the cold that get these fish.

The fishing inside the estuary has shown good numbers of small salmon. They seem to be predominantly located from the Shoal Channel through to Pelican Point at Mann’s Beach. There are also a lot of large tailor to 2lb in the system. Trolling has been the most effective method of catching these fish because the location of the schools is not always apparent. Metal lures, such as Raiders and Lazers have been the most effective. Once you have found the fish, stop the boat and cast while drifting. The school won’t be spooked and you will catch a lot more fish.

Given their relatively small size, flyfishers have been having a ball on the salmon too. Fast sinking lines are needed to get the flies down deep, and short fast strips will do the trick.

The big sea garfish have been keeping the bait fishermen occupied. The bulk of these bread and butter fish have been in the Pelican Point region of Mann’s Beach, all the way around to Robertson’s Beach. They have been absolutely huge – up to 55cm – which is a monster garfish in anyone’s book!

I’ve heard some hard to believe reports about these garfish. Apparently, someone caught a bag of them in which one specimen measured 70cm. Like most of you, I have my doubts, but would be more than satisfied with a photo of such a beast.

Offshore, there’s been lots a good size flathead. According to those having success, the bigger flatties are out further. Pilchards and squid have been the best baits. Drifting with a paternoster rig is the way to go.

Big gummies, around 5ft long, have been caught outside the Mann’s entrance. Not surprisingly, fresh baits have been the most productive.

For more information about fishing at McLoughlins and district, contact Will at Allways Angling in Traralgon on (03) 5174 8544.