This week on Hi Tide, proudly brought to you by Blake’s Marine, the Fishing Fellas roll through a big mix of weather, boating safety, access battles and fishing reports from the coast to the dams as we edge closer to Christmas.
The show kicks off with a look back at Gone Fishing Day and the putt-putt action on the Central Coast, then into a fresh marine weather outlook. With changeable conditions, storms and wind shifts on the way, the team talk about fishing to your ability, keeping an eye on the sky and getting the boat, trailer and safety gear sorted before the Christmas rush.
We cross to Kieran Reekie for a broad NSW and coastal fishing snapshot, reminding listeners to slip, slop, slap, wear a hat and never forget the life jacket. From offshore options to beaches and estuaries, it’s all about matching your plans to the forecast and coming home safe.
Tackle and boat prep are front and centre as Grant, Alan and Malcolm dive into this week’s tech tip on anchors, rope and chain. They explain how UV and salt damage anchor ropes, how much chain you should run (often 50–75% of your boat length), why three to five times the depth in rope is a good starting point, and when a stern anchor or spare anchor setup can save the day. There are practical tips on untangling a twisted warp, checking gear before a trip and organising mooring lines so you aren’t scrambling when the wind gets up.
Access and politics come into focus with Boating Industry Association’s Neil Patchett, who outlines concerns over a proposal to exclude powered vessels from parts of Port Stephens. Neil explains how the idea emerged with little consultation, why a blanket ban on all powered boats is worrying in a region built on boating, and why proper engagement with locals, fishos and industry is essential before any changes are locked in.
We then head down the coast to St Georges Basin and the NSW South Coast with Greg Reid, who files an estuary-focused report. Greg talks about how freshwater and sand build-up are changing some cockleweed mounds, what that means for bream and flathead, and how bass in the Shoalhaven River are making the most of extra flow. He runs through lure choices like surface tail baits and prawn imitations, and simple tactics kids can use in the shallows.
Staying on the South Coast, Captain Roscoe from Kiama checks in with a rock, beach and estuary wrap, including prawn-baiting rock walls, working beach gutters and chasing reef fish when the swell and water colour line up. He talks honestly about days when fish are finicky, and why a bit of patience and local knowledge still puts a feed in the esky.
We also head inland with Stephen Bowler from Tenterfield, who gives an update on native fishing in the New England region. Stephen touches on current water levels, recent wet phases, the behaviour of Murray cod and yellowbelly, and why careful handling and quick release are so important as we move into a hotter, drier summer.
If you’re chasing a coastal and inland NSW fishing report plus real-world boating advice – from anchor setups and safety messaging to Port Stephens access issues, South Coast estuaries and New England natives – this episode of Hi Tide is loaded with guests, local knowledge and practical tips to help you plan your next session.
