This time of year brings us some colder days and a drop in water temperature, which brings some great new species into the mix that are not readily available in summer.

I’m talking about those typical bread and butter species such as garfish, trevally and winter whiting.

The shallow water seems to hold good amounts of these species, so look for run-offs in shallow weed beds and you should be able to get some good fish.

Using berley is the key to catching good amounts of garfish.

During the run-out tide berley is very effective. Cut the bait that you’re using into very small pieces and start feeding a few pieces out often until you see some action on the surface.

Then float out a piece of bait, (the same you are using as berley,) on a size 10 hook and you’re on your way.

There are some decent garfish around measuring more than 45cm. These fish not only make a good feed, but also make for some excellent sport on light gear.

By-catch of mullet, salmon and whiting are on the cards as well.

There are still some good amounts of whiting being caught and they are pretty hungry which means they’re taking a variety of baits such as bass yabbies, pipis and even whitebait.

The whole south Gippsland estuarine system has been producing lots of trevally in the last two months.

This is great for land-based anglers at Port Albert as they can make use of the numerous jetties in the region to catch a good feed.

Just remember there is no need to cast out a mile; the best way to fish off the jetties is to fish close to the pylons with light sinkers so that you get a natural presentation with you bait.

Pipis work the best, however on some days squid and prawns are quite effective too.

There are even a few anglers who throw around very small soft plastics on light jig heads during the run-in tide and have good success on the bigger trevally that hang around the pylons.

There are still some descent numbers of flathead being caught.

It seems the flathead don’t hold up in the deep water during the colder months, but they can still be found during the winter in the shallow, warmer water.

If you have a smaller bass-style boat with an electric motor, you’re in luck! You can cruise those shallow areas searching for the flathead in the mornings while they are sunning themselves without the risk of spooking them with a petrol outboard.

For more information, Contact Will at Allways Angling in Traralgon on 03 5174 8544. You will get expert advice and some great deals on all your fishing tackle needs.