ONE of the most frequent questions I am asked is, “where can I catch a fish around Broughton Island?”
The beaches around the island are spectacular with excellent fishing for whiting and flathead in the summer months. It is the surrounding reef system that provides ideal habitat for snapper, mulloway, teraglin, a growing population of pearl perch and kingfish, which gets the recreational fishers very excited.
There are literally hundreds of spots to drop the anchor or drift around the island.
It all depends on the direction of the current, the wind direction and strength and the size and direction of the swell. There is no “X marks the spot”.
Generally speaking, in a strong southerly wind, target the north side of the island and the opposite applies.
Island GPS marks are freely available on the internet.
I do prefer to chase snapper in a solid north-easterly breeze on the extensive reef system south off Cod Rock.
I anchor, berley heavily and float an unweighted king prawn, fillet of bonito or slimy mackerel down – just on sundown. Rarely do I go home empty-handed.
I’m sure if you drifted and tossed plastics you would have equal success. Maybe do better. Give it a shot.
Another spot I would suggest is to drift along the inner wall on East Head working plastics close to the rock face.
Other spots I have had success are the Gutz, North Island and The Sisters.
Ask your local Bait and Tackle outlet to identify these spots.
Like I said there are hundreds of spots where snapper can be caught – in the right conditions.
It must be realized that Broughton Island is part of the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park and a significant area has been classified as Sanctuary Zone.
As mentioned, the restrictions and zoning within the MP are currently being reviewed.
Maps are available throughout Port Stephens.
If you are considering visiting the island there are a few precautions to consider.
Firstly, a boat that can handle the conditions, preferably over 16 feet.
Contact Marine Rescue on your departure and arrival at the island.
There are shallow reefs that need to be avoided and, of course, you must also be prepared for a change in weather conditions.
Basic, but adequate, camping facilities are provided by the NPWS who you will need to contact if you intend staying overnight as a camping fee does apply.
Travelling by private boat will require an understanding of the shallow reef system and the availability of mooring facilities.
Running up onto the beach also requires thought.
A dinghy would be recommended to ferry supplies from the moored boat onto the island.
Keep in close contact with Port Stephens Marine Rescue and be aware of changes in the weather patterns. Broughton Island is a wonderland, however it can become quite inhospitable if the weather turns.
An alternative is to engage one of the charter vessels based in Nelson Bay to ferry you to the island and to pick you up at the end of your stay.
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
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