Day: October 2, 2023

A Comprehensive Guide to Gold Coast Prawning

Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of Gold Coast prawning? Our comprehensive guide offers everything you need to know about this thrilling aquatic activity. From identifying prawn species to selecting the right equipment, understanding bag limits, and preserving your catch, we’ve got you covered.

Exploring Gold Coast’s Diverse Prawn Species 🦐 The waters of South East Queensland (SEQ), the Gold Coast, and

Far Northern NSW teem with a variety of prawn species. Here are the most common ones found in our region:

1. Banana Prawn (Penaeus merguiensis, Penaeus indicus): These prawns are prevalent from Shark Bay in WA to Northern NSW, growing up to 34cm long. Their prime season runs from November to May.
2. School Prawn (Metapehaeus macleayi): Located from mid Queensland to the SE Victoria border, school prawns can reach sizes of up to 25cm and share a season similar to banana prawns, from November to May.
3. Tiger Prawn (Penaeus monodon): Tiger prawns come in three subgroups – black, brown, and grooved. They are found from mid-coast NSW to Shark Bay in WA, growing up to 33cm. Each subgroup has its peak season but is generally caught year-round.
4. Eastern King Prawn (Penaeus plebejus): These prawns are found all along the east coast, from Tasmania to the Gulf. Mainly caught by offshore trawlers, they can reach sizes of up to 30cm.
5. Coral Prawn: Various genera of coral prawns inhabit coastal reefs along the east coast, with trawlers primarily catching them around reefs and gritty bottoms.
6. Mantis Shrimp: With over 125 different species in Australian waters, mantis shrimp can be found around Australia, from estuaries to coastal flats and out to the shelf in 1500m. They are mainly caught by hand or as by-catch from trawlers or line fishermen. Morton Bay and inshore reefs are great places to find them by hand.

Bag Limits, Handling, and Conservation 🦐 When prawning on the Gold Coast, it’s crucial to adhere to bag limits: 10 liters per person with a boat limit of 20 liters for two or more people. Remember that bag limits apply not just during your trip but also to your entire catch, including what you have in your fridge, freezer, or bait.

Handling prawns requires caution as they possess two sharp spikes used as defense mechanisms, one on their head and one on their tail. Prawns molt their shells regularly, undergoing pre-moulting and post-moulting stages, which last from 10 to 12 days and 2 to 6 days, respectively.

Understanding Prawn Spawning and Life Cycle 🌊 Prawns are prolific reproducers, with a single female releasing hundreds of thousands of eggs each spawn. Fertilized eggs hatch within 24 hours, and the larvae of different prawn species exhibit distinct behaviors. Some drift shorewards to the shallows, while others head to reefs, gritty trenches, and shale bottoms.

Most prawns live for one to two years and die after spawning. Their early weeks are spent drifting, with some eventually making their way up into estuaries and then back out to the sea to spawn.

Prime Prawn Hunting Grounds 🏞️ Finding prawns involves understanding their preferred habitats:

• Banana Prawns: These prawns school up in estuaries and bays, often in 18ft (5.5m) to 40ft (12m) depths, depending on their movements.
• School Prawns: Love the shallows, typically found in 2m to 8m of water, especially in small holes.
• Tiger Prawns: Can be found in various depths, often around weed beds and drains, with spotlights and scoop nets being effective tools.

Utilizing Sounders and Nets for Successful Prawning 🎣 Sounders, including down scan and side scan, are invaluable tools for locating prawns. In shallow waters, side scanning can help spot prawns along banks or sandbars. Cast your net behind your boat for better results.

When prawns are abundant, they can obscure your sounder with large clusters and may even skip out of the water.

Selecting the Right Cast Nets for Different Conditions 🌊 Various cast nets are suitable for different conditions and spots:

• Bottom Pocket: Ideal for shallows (up to 3m) near drains, sand, and weed beds.
• Top and Bottom Pocket: Suitable for mid-depth waters (1m to 6m).
• Drawstring: Effective in deep water with rough or snaggy bottoms when prawns are near the surface.
• Top Pocket: The preferred net for prawning, excellent in depths of 4m to 30m. It captures prawns in the top pocket, offering an exciting experience for prawners.

Scoop Nets and Haul Nets for Shallow Prawning 🦞 Scoop nets from pet or two-dollar shops are great for prawning. You can also create your own scoop net by bending wire into a hoop shape and attaching mesh. Haul nets are registered and perfect for capturing shallow prawns, particularly school prawns.

Weights for Nets: Finding Your Preference 🌊 Select weights based on personal preference. Lead sinks quickly but may snag. Chain sinks slower but is less prone to snags. Rings are noisy and can snag but have a moderate sinking rate. Try each type to determine which suits your needs best.

Preserving and Cleaning Your Prawns for Maximum Freshness 🍤 To preserve prawns, place them in an icy slurry immediately after catch, adding salt to enhance preservation. While you can freeze prawns, they are best consumed fresh or within three weeks of freezing.

Unlocking Culinary Versatility 🍽️ Prawns are incredibly versatile seafood. You can prepare them in countless ways, from pasta dishes, curries, and stir-fries to grilling, frying, and adding to salads or sandwiches. Pair them with various ingredients, including meats, fruits, and veggies, to create mouthwatering dishes.

Responsible Prawning and Conservation 🌊 Follow bag limits, accurately identify your catch, and respect local regulations when prawning on the Gold Coast. If you’re uncertain about a species, take a photo and consult experts. Responsible prawning ensures a sustainable and enjoyable experience for all.

True Blue Fishing Charters – Weekly Fishing Report 🎣

Fishing enthusiasts, hold onto your reels! It’s been an exceptional week of angling adventures with True Blue Fishing Charters. The Gold Coast’s waters have been sizzling with action, and our customers have been reeling in some remarkable catches. Here’s the latest update on the fishing frenzy:

 

Mahi Mahi Mania at the Fads 🌟 Mahi Mahi enthusiasts, this one’s for you! The Fads have been the go-to spot for Mahi Mahi, and they’re biting ferociously. Anglers have had great success using unweighted pilchards and the occasional lucky catch on trolled skirts. The vibrant colors and thrilling fights of Mahi Mahi are making for unforgettable moments on the water.

 

 

 

36 Fathom Ground – Snapper, Pearl Perch, and Venus Tuskfish 🐟 Dropping down to the 36-fathom grounds has been a fruitful endeavor. Snapper, pearl perch, and venus tuskfish are making appearances, and they’re eager to nibble on pilchards, squid, and our trusty squidtrex jigs.These deep-sea treasures are providing anglers with some fantastic battles and delicious rewards.

 

 

 

Cobia Extravaganza at the 24 Fathom Reefs 🌊 The 24-fathom reefs are buzzing with action as Cobia take center stage. Live yakkas and slimies have been the preferred bait, and they’re proving irresistible to these powerful fish. Cobia are renowned for their tenacity and incredible strength, making every catch an adrenaline-pumping experience.

 

 

 

Early Morning Snapper on the 18 Fathom Reefs 🌅 If you’re an early riser, you’re in for a treat. Head to the 18-fathom reefs in the morning hours, and you might just land yourself some snapper. These delicious and highly sought-after fish have been making appearances, providing the perfect start to a day of angling.

Our charters have been bustling with happy customers, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to share these exciting fishing opportunities with you. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer looking for an unforgettable experience, True Blue Fishing Charters has you covered.

Don’t miss out on the action! Book your charter today and join us for an incredible day on the Gold Coast’s beautiful waters. Let’s make your fishing dreams a reality. 🌊🐟

#TrueBlueFishingCharters #FishingReport #GoldCoastFishing #MahiMahi #Cobia #Snapper #PearlPerch #VenusTuskfish #HappyCustomers Our Partners

The Gold Coast is renowned for its stunning beaches and pristine waters, but it also offers a hidden gem for crab enthusiasts. Blue swimmer crabs, also known as sand crabs, inhabit the tranquil waters of the Gold Coast Broadwater, as well as its many rivers and creeks, including the Nerang River, Coomera River, Currumbin Creek, and Tallebudgera Creek. In this article, we’ll delve into the art of catching these delectable crustaceans, from the best baits to ideal spots, and the equipment you’ll need.

1. Bait Selection: Unveiling the Crab’s Culinary Preferences

Before you embark on your crabbing adventure, it’s essential to know what appeals to blue swimmer crabs. Mullet, tuna, and other oily fish make excellent bait choices. These strong-smelling and oily baits are irresistible to crabs, luring them into your traps.

2. Crab Pots and Dillies: Setting the Stage for Success

To catch blue swimmer crabs effectively, you’ll need the right equipment. Crab pots and dillies are the go-to tools for most crabbers. These devices allow crabs to enter but not exit, making them an efficient and ethical choice for harvesting. Make sure your pots and dillies meet local regulations.

3. Targeting the Right Spots: Where to Find Blue Swimmer Crabs

Blue swimmer crabs are commonly found in sandy banks and along the edges of channels. These areas provide the crabs with sandy substrates for burrowing and the opportunity to feed on passing food particles in the water. Look for spots with minimal boat traffic, as crabs tend to shy away from noisy disturbances, and pot lines can foul propellors.

4. The Nerang River: A Crabbing Paradise

The Nerang River is a favorite among crabbers on the Gold Coast. Its calm waters, especially around Southport and the southern reaches, provide ideal conditions for catching blue swimmer crabs. Explore the riverbanks and find those sandy patches where the crabs like to hide.

5. Coomera River: A Hidden Gem for Crab Enthusiasts

Coomera River offers a quieter alternative for crabbing. Head to the upper reaches of the river for a more tranquil experience. Remember to secure your crab pots along the sandy stretches and avoid areas with heavy boat traffic.

 

6. Currumbin Creek and Tallebudgera Creek: Serenity and Crabs

For a serene crabbing experience, Currumbin Creek and Tallebudgera Creek are excellent choices. These peaceful waterways wind through scenic landscapes and are known for their crabbing potential. Set your pots along the creek edges, and you might just be rewarded with a bounty of blue swimmer crabs.

 

 

7. The Gold Coast Broadwater: A Great Spot for Crabbing

The Gold Coast Broadwater is undeniably one of the best spots for crabbing. With its expansive, shallow waters and sandy banks, it provides an ideal habitat for blue swimmer crabs. Be sure to anchor your pots along the edges of the Broadwater, where the crabs are known to thrive.

 

8. Patience and Respect: The Key to Successful Crabbing

Catching blue swimmers in the Gold Coast’s waterways is a relaxing and rewarding experience. However, it’s essential to exercise patience and respect for both the environment and the local regulations. Always check the size and bag limits for blue swimmer crabs in the area you’re crabbing.

In conclusion, the Gold Coast offers a unique opportunity to savor the delights of blue swimmer crabs in some of the most tranquil and picturesque settings, including the Gold Coast Broadwater. With the right bait, equipment, and knowledge of where to look, you can enjoy a memorable crabbing adventure while avoiding areas of high boat traffic. So, grab your crab pots, set your dillies, and embark on a crabbing journey to remember in the Gold Coast’s serene waterways!

Introduction

Fishing has long been considered a traditionally male-dominated pastime, but times are changing, and the tides are turning. In recent years, there has been a significant surge in the number of women taking up fishing as a hobby, and many are even pursuing it as a serious passion. This shift is evident in the increasing number of women who regularly embark on fishing charters and prove their prowess by catching quality fish. In this article, we will explore the growing popularity of fishing among women and the positive impact they are having on the fishing industry.

 

 

1. Empowering Women in Fishing

Fishing is no longer just a “man’s world.” Women are breaking down stereotypes and stepping onto boats, ready to cast their lines and reel in some incredible catches. This empowerment stems from various factors, including increased access to fishing information, a more inclusive and welcoming fishing community, and a desire for outdoor adventure.

 

 

2. Women on Fishing Charters

One clear sign of this rising trend is the growing presence of women on fishing charters. These charters offer guided fishing experiences, and women are increasingly seizing the opportunity to be a part of them. Whether it’s a day trip on a calm lake or an offshore adventure in the open sea, women are not only participating but excelling.

3. Quality Catches by Women

It’s not just about participation; women are proving their skills by catching quality fish. Many female anglers have mastered the art of fishing and regularly land impressive catches. This trend is encouraging other women to give fishing a try, as they see their peers achieving success on the water.

 

4. Supportive Fishing Communities

A welcoming and supportive fishing community has played a crucial role in encouraging women to take up fishing. Women’s fishing clubs and online communities have sprung up, providing a platform for sharing experiences, tips, and stories. These spaces foster a sense of camaraderie and help women build confidence in their fishing abilities.

 

 

5. Fishing Equipment Tailored for Women

As the number of female anglers has grown, so too has the demand for fishing equipment designed specifically for women. Fishing gear manufacturers have responded by producing rods, reels, and apparel tailored to women’s needs, making fishing more comfortable and enjoyable for them.

6. Promoting Conservation

Women in fishing are not only concerned with the sport itself but also with the preservation of aquatic ecosystems. Many female anglers are active advocates for sustainable fishing practices and conservation efforts. Their passion for nature and the environment contributes positively to the industry’s image.

 

7. Conclusion

The fishing world is witnessing a sea change, with women taking the lead in what was once a male-dominated arena. From participating in fishing charters to catching quality fish and promoting conservation, women are making a significant impact on the industry. This shift not only diversifies the fishing community but also enriches it with new perspectives and talents. As women continue to embrace the joys of fishing, the industry can look forward to a bright and inclusive future.

In summary, the rise of women in fishing is a remarkable phenomenon that is changing the face of the sport and contributing to its growth. Female anglers are not only catching quality fish but also shaping a more diverse and inclusive fishing community. This empowering trend is a testament to the enduring appeal of fishing and its ability to bring people of all backgrounds together in the pursuit of adventure and connection with the natural world.