LOW water levels have created launching problems at many impoundments, with Lake Samsonvale no exception. While good rains in February eased the problem for some, permit holders for the Samsonvale boating access scheme have not been so fortunate.

Adsetts Road, which was submerged when North Pine Dam was constructed, provides a ready-made launching ramp where it enters the water, and has been used by the Pine Rivers Fish Management Association as the entry point for permit holders. The falling water level has left the road fully exposed, and has forced boat owners to attempt launching their boats over a rocky embankment. This works for some, but not everyone.

Recognising the difficulty, the South East Queensland Water Corporation has relaxed the conditions pertaining to access to the lake, and will allow permit holders to drive across the exposed road and launch their boats from the opposite side. This relaxation will only apply until water levels rise high enough to allow launching from the road surface. The PRFMA and all licence holders appreciate SEQWater’s consideration and hopefully, by the time this goes to print, water levels will have risen to eliminate the problem.

I have previously suggested that Samsonvale was showing the hallmarks of being a winter fishery. Just to demonstrate that fish don’t read the press, the bass turned on a show recently, with some absolute snodgers boated. A 65cm (fork length) specimen was taken just after the heavy rains, with a number of fish in the high 50s coming aboard in the same session. It seems that the inflow of a large volume of freshwater stirred the big bass from the deeper holes, with fish snared from higher in the water column. This is something Samsonvale anglers should add to their almanac, as yet another piece of the fishing jigsaw of the lake unfolds.

April typically is the transition period between summer and winter species, with bass starting to make an appearance. Golden and silver perch are still being taken, and snub-nosed gar on fly are providing fun for enthusiasts. The redclaw crayfish seem to be quiet at the moment and we might need to wait for water levels to rise significantly before these tasty morsels can be added to the plate.

Applications for the 2004/05 boating access permits are being taken now, with the season due to kick off on May 4. Significant stocking by the PRFMA over the past few years should again augur well for excellent fishing in 2004/05. Information papers detailing the boating access scheme, together with application forms, are available from bait and tackle stores, or by contacting the PRFMA on 0417 742 023.

1) Temporary launch facility at Lake Samsonvale.