In this edition, weather predictions have again played havoc with our monthly outing plans but there is good news from members who made the trek to the Macleay River for bass last month, check the photographs of happy anglers displaying their first Bass caught on fly.

John O’Shaughnessy has been busy at his fly tying bench and has given us an in-depth up-date on variations to his “Whiting Gurgler”.

Our Fish of the month is common in our local estuaries but is not often caught by fly anglers. If you should catch one, please take notice of the warning given in the article. Strange as it may seem these slender fish have been described as “a greater threat than sharks” in Papua New Guinea, according Grant’s Guide to Fishes. The Australian Museum advises that there have been five recorded fatalities in Southern Japan alone. These have resulted from the widespread traditional method common throughout the Pacific, of fishing from small craft at night using lights to attract the fish. Disoriented fish leap towards the light at high speed and striking fishermen with enough force to penetrate the body. Fortunately, there are no records of severe injuries to more conventional anglers, nonetheless treat them with caution or blood will flow.

President David has sent an email to members outlining a proposed outings calendar for 2022 and is looking for comments and suggestions. Two of the proposed outings were on my wish list, the ever favourite Nundle and having read the report in this newsletter, the new spot of Dondingalong, can’t wait to take the boat, anglers welcome to join me.

So, if you have a favourite destination you would like the club to (re)visit as a day out or a weekend away please let him know. Bonnie and I were just having lunch at Bago Tavern with David H and Susan when David made mention of a place he had heard of at Lake Eucumbene that sounded as though it would be ideal for the club as Providence portal was no longer available. I will be sure to follow up with David.

May your waders never leak, and you always have a tight line.

Iain

View/Download February 2022 edition