Members of the Merimbula Big Game and Lakes Angling Club (MBGALAC) said cold currents had put a dampener on gamefish returns with waters at the shelf down to 17 degrees.
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However, calmer conditions were expected this week and anglers said it would likely see the return of some game fish back on the prowl.
A highlight for those heading out wide is the anticipated return of the highly sought after southern bluefin tuna.
In other fishing news, salmon and tailor are frequenting the headlands and beaches.
The club had received good reports from Haycock and Main beach, while snapper appeared to be the best on the southern reefs about Eden.
Morwong are reported on the chew north of Tathra.
Both soft plastics and pilchard baits are very effective.
With the moon full, gummy shark are active and good results were reported from north of Tathra. Members said the best bait is small crabs as gummys are a bottom feeder, but pilchards are also likely to bring a good return.
The full moon also signifies it is now time to look for jewfish with live baits.
A good number of hookups have been reported from the Bega River and they are also prevalent about the Merimbula and Pambula lakes.
Sand and tiger flathead are a little slow, try the shallower waters to 15 fathoms.
North of Tathra and in deeper waters Chinamen leather jacket are reportedly causing problems, but drummer and also silver drummer remain along the rocky headlands with cunjevoi a good bait option.
Kingfish are reported to frequent the Merimbula Fishing Platform given suitable weather and squid as well as slimy mackerel continuing to provide good returns.
With inshore waters really cool – 12 degrees - it is not surprising to find visiting the Platform from Tasmania some smallish snotty (nosed) trevally also called blue warehou.
The club is holding its salmon Sunday social at Haycock Beach next weekend.
Organisers said they were looking forward to a fantastic turnout for the morning competition and welcomed entrants to join in at the barbecue to be held from 1pm on July 31.
Every Friday the club holds an open house at Spencer Park starting from 6.30 pm.
Visitors are very welcome, come and enjoy the fishing report, the ambience, friendship and lovely views with very competitive bar prices.
This Friday, Darragh Reynolds and Jeff Knox are your scheduled hosts.
All inquires to Lindon Thompson on 0411 873 880 and everything you need to know is on the club’s website at www.mbgalac.com.au.
Keep your rods bent!