Stinker’s History: still much to learn

THIS is my 50th year in Port Stephens and I still feel like I am scratching the surface.

Being a Fingal Bay resident for all those years I know every rock on the land and in the water.

Fishing in my tinny everywhere from the Outer Light south to Rocky Point for all those years, has given me a knowledge of where to catch fish and when.

I have visited Broughton Island on numerous occasions and have a reasonable understanding of what is on offer close to the island.

Having said that, there is an incredible expanse of water inside and outside Port Stephens that I have never visited – such is the enormity of the area.

When it comes to inside the port, I have more questions than answers when it comes to fishing.

Expert fishers like Wayne Coles, George Trinkler and Paul Lennon know the port like the back of their hands and know where and when to target dusky flathead, mulloway, bream, whiting and crabs.

It became very obvious to me that I had a lot to learn when I wrote the book “Oysterman” which required me to spend time in the Back Harbour – west of Soldiers Point.

I was fascinated by the little communities including Swan Bay, Little Swan Bay, Tahlee, Carrington and of course the larger communities Karuah and Lemon Tree Passage.

The fishing and crabbing opportunities up there are endless.

Tilligerry Creek and the Karuah River along with North Arm Cove have so much to offer.

No one has a greater knowledge of fish than local commercial fishermen.

Sadly, many of the elders, from well known fishing families, have gone to the big fish in the sky taking with them an immense store of experience.

Fortunately, I made a real effort to interview and spend time with these men and captured their stories and wealth of knowledge.

To those on holidays or visiting for the first time – welcome.

Enjoy your break and take the opportunity to learn the history of this amazing place that we call home.

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE