Yorke Peninsula Fishing Guide

Adelaide Adelaide yorkepeninsula.com.au Reef Encounters Pondalowie Bay - Marion Bay Lower Yorke Peninsula, aboard ‘Vixen” a 45ft Harriscraft long range charter vessel Fishing Charters reefencounters.com.au Reef Encounters Est. 1998

Fishing Charters Est. 1998 Come and experience some of the most sensational deep offshore reef and blue water game ﬁ shing this state has to offer! Wedge Island and more on our doorstep, not just a charter it is a total ﬁ shing adventure! Packages; 1-2 day including accommodation and 3-5 day overnight live aboard. Tailor made adventures, small or large groups welcome, all very affordable. 7 days a week, all year round, weather permitting. Please phone Mark Wynbergen for further information 08 8854 4102 / 0407 609 988 / www.reefencounters.com.au Ilustration©R.Swainston/www.anima.net.au Contents 2 Map 32 Fishing charters 4 Introduction 32 Fishing supplies and boat hire 6 Fishing in SA: What you need to know 33 General information 10 Fishing locations 35 Food and wine Follow coast from 35 Accommodation Port Gawler to Port Broughton 39 Visitor information 31 Reference chart 42 Index Species, bait, seasons and tackle

Key Icons

Boat ramp Sanctuary zones

Jetty Port Broughton 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13

Spencer Gulf

KEY Wallaroo 1 King George whiting 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 2 Yellowfin whiting 3 Snapper Tommy ruff Tiparra Bay 4 Moonta Bay 5 Mullet Port Hughes 1, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9 6 Salmon 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12 7 Garfish 8 Squid 9 Snook Port Wakefield 10 Mulloway 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, 12, 13 Port Clinton 11 Bream 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, 12, 13 12 Crabs 13 Flathead Price Balgowan 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, Jetty 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9 9, 12, 13 Boat ramp Ardrossan 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, Port Parham 2, 5, 12 Port Victoria 8, 9, 10, 12, 13 1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9

0 20 Black Point Middle Beach 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12 2, 5, 12 km Port Rickaby Port Gawler 1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9 Port Julia 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12 2, 5, 12, 13

Port Vincent 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12

Corny Point 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13 Stansbury Gulf Berry Bay Point Turton 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 12 St Vincent 5, 6, 10 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 13 Wool Bay Gleesons Landing 4, 7, 8 5, 6, 10 Daly Head Port Giles 5, 6, 10, 13 1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9 Formby Edithburgh Sturt Bay 1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 12 Bay 1, 3, 5

Browns Beach Foul Bay 1, 3, 5 5, 6 Marion Bay 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10 Stenhouse Bay 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9 Investigator Strait Port Broughton 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13

Spencer Gulf

0 20 Black Point Middle Beach 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12 2, 5, 12 km Port Rickaby Port Gawler 1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9 Port Julia 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12 2, 5, 12, 13

Port Vincent 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12

Browns Beach Foul Bay 1, 3, 5 5, 6 Marion Bay 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10 Stenhouse Bay 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9 Investigator Strait Yorke Peninsula An Angler’s Paradise It’s a popular belief that explorer and master mariner, Matthew Flinders, was the first white man to catch a fish on Yorke Peninsula.

In late March of 1802 Flinders took his sloop, It is dominated by mangroves, sand flats and the Investigator, high into western Gulf St. tidal creeks to the north, deeper water and Vincent and went ashore in a long boat. It is jetties along both mid-coast shorelines, and well known that Flinders and his naturalist a blend of rock ledges and surf beaches to companion, Robert Brown, were fascinated the south – something to suit most angling by marine life and I can’t imagine either tastes and aspirations. And then, of course, leaving the area without wetting a line, as there is superb offshore and small boat they had around Kangaroo Island a week or fishing from Port Wakefield all the way so earlier. Little did Flinders know, of course, around to Port Broughton. that the peninsula he had named after the Yorke Peninsula is far enough away from the Right Honourable Charles Philip Yorke would angling masses of our capital city, yet close go on to become one of South Australia’s truly enough to be within a comfortable drive for a iconic angling locations. day or weekend stay, and produces a diverse Today, more than two centuries after Flinders range of popular recreational fish species. first charted its shoreline, Yorke Peninsula is Plump tommy ruffs, garfish (gar), squid and well established as a fishing mecca. Not only blue swimmer crabs (blueys) make up the does it attract thousands of visiting anglers bulk of the jetty catch, while boaties can from South Australia each year, but also from expect anything from jumbo snapper to King all parts of the country and overseas. George whiting and practically everything in between. Throw in big, black-back salmon The very nature of the Peninsula’s coastal and the occasional mulloway from bottom- geography plays a major role in its popularity.

4 INTRODUCTION end beaches and it is easy to appreciate why maintained by local councils. The same Yorke Peninsula appeals to such a broad applies to boat launching facilities; it’s no cross section of recreational anglers. longer a problem to find a modern, all-tide ramp near a productive fishing area. Some As is the case right around the South Australian have fish cleaning and wash down facilities coast, seasons and associated weather and most have dual lanes, floating boarding fluctuations play a significant role in what the pontoons and spacious, secure car parks. Peninsula has to offer the visiting angler. In summer, when south-easterly winds dominate, It’s safe to say Yorke Peninsula is one of it’s the beaches and jetties of the western Australia’s most appealing, accessible and shoreline that offer protected fishing. The affordable venues for an angling-based reverse applies in winter months and during holiday. Whether you are a dyed-in-the-wool autumn, when the winds are lightest and most offshore fishing fanatic or simply like to drop predictable, it’s simply a matter of selecting the a bait from the jetty, there are few locations type of fish you’re after and going for it. nationwide that can offer as much in such a compact package. All up, Yorke Peninsula has 15 jetties open to recreational anglers. Some run into quite deep water, while a couple are close to dry around low tide, but they all produce good fishing at one time or another. These piers are the life blood of many coastal towns and are safe for anglers of all ages and well

yorkepeninsula.com.au 5 Fishing in SA: What you need to know South Australia’s fish stocks are a precious By obeying the rules you’ll help to protect resource. To help ensure there are enough fish for South Australia’s valuable fish stocks. the future, various limits have been set to control the number and size of fish taken. A number of SA Recreational Fishing Guide closures are also in place at certain times of year smartphone app or in certain areas to protect key species. The SA Recreational Fishing Guide smartphone For information on fishing rules in app is a free resource offering fishers easy and South Australia: convenient access to SA fishing rules. • Call the 24-hour Fishwatch hotline on The state-of-the-art app provides access to 1800 065 522 recreational fishing information, from the • Visit www.pir.sa.gov.au/fishing convenience of Apple, Windows or Android • For size, bag and boat limits SMS a fish name mobile devices. It’s a one-stop shop for to 0427 767 995 information and maps on fishing in South • For fishing rules at your fingertips, download Australia, including rules and regulations, size, the free SA Recreational Fishing Guide boat and bag limits and closures, which includes smartphone app. Marine Park sanctuary zones. To download, scan the code below, Understanding Marine Park zones visit www.pir.sa.gov.au/recfishingapp Each Marine Park is made up of four main or your app store zones. There are two zones that affect To see the Marine Park zoning: recreational fishers, sanctuary zones and 1. Open the app and click on “closures”. restricted access zones. 2. Then select “closures mapping”. The sanctuary zones are shown in green on 3. You can now navigate around the state. the following map. These are areas of high The blue dot shows your location, the green conservation value. No fishing or removal of zones indicate the sanctuary zones. plants or animals is allowed in sanctuary zones, however recreational activities such as boating, diving, surfing and swimming are welcome. The map on page 8 shows, in red, the existing restricted access zones that were in place prior to the marine parks process. Downloadable GPS coordinates and more detailed maps are available at: Scan this Quick Response code www.marineparks.sa.gov.au with your smartphone to go to In addition to the Marine Park sanctuary zones, the app. Data fees may apply. South Australian recreational fishers also need to be aware of other rules and regulations such as size, bag, boat and possession limits which determine the size and the number of fish that can be taken.

6 FISHING IN SA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Marine Park Sanctuary Zones (SZ) Frequently Asked Questions Eastern Spencer Upper Gulf St. Vincent Q Can I drive a boat through or in a Gulf Marine Park Marine Park sanctuary zone? Yes Longitude Degrees Latitude Degrees Longitude Degrees Latitude Degrees A Decimal Minutes Decimal Minutes Decimal Minutes Decimal Minutes Q Can I anchor in a sanctuary zone? Cape Elizabeth (Park 11 SZ-1) Clinton Wetlands (Park 14 SZ-1) Yes 137º 22.995’ E 34º 9.994’ S 138º 8.002’ E 34º 10.270’ S A 137º 27.753’ E 34º 9.994’ S 138º 8.002’ E 34º 12.304’ S Are motorised water sports (water skiing, 137º 29.290’ E 34º 12.078’ S 138º 1.669’ E 34º 12.304’ S Q parasailing, jet skiing, exceeding 35 137º 22.995’ E 34º 12.078’ S Middle Spit (Park 14 SZ-2) knots, etc) allowed in sanctuary zones? Port Victoria (Park 11 SZ-2) 138º 8.503’ E 34º 20.139’ S A No 137º 26.517’ E 34º 26.942’ S 138º 10.509’ E 34º 20.139’ S 137º 29.142’ E 34º 26.942’ S 138º 10.354’ E 34º 24.702’ S Can I be in a sanctuary zone with Q fishing gear? Goose Island (Park 11 SZ-3) 138º 8.503’ E 34º 23.916’ S Sanctuary Zone 3 is Goose Island Aquatic Reserve Offshore Ardrossan (Park 14 SZ-3) Yes, as long as it is not being used N/A N/A A 138º 1.547’ E 34º 28.242’ S Can I be in a sanctuary zone with fish 138º 6.011’ E 34º 28.242’ S Q in my boat? Southern Spencer 138º 6.011’ E 34º 31.152’ S A Yes Gulf Marine Park 138º 1.547’ E 34º 31.152’ S Light River Delta (Park 14 SZ-4) What is the fine for fishing in Longitude Degrees Latitude Degrees Sanctuary Zone 4 extends to the Q a sanctuary zone? Decimal Minutes Decimal Minutes seaward Mangrove Habitat extent which is approximately low water mark. Chinamans Hat (Park 12 SZ-1) In Sanctuary Zone 4 the Light River mouth The expiation fee is $315. However all is buffered by 750 metres. A recreational line fishers are entitled to a 136º 56.591’E 35º 16.943’S warning for their first offence 136º 59.598’ E 35º 16.943’ S 138º 20.652’ E 34º 32.320’ S 136º 59.598’ E 35º 23.035’ S 138º 20.937’ E 34º 32.320’ S Q Can I dive in a sanctuary zone? 138º 24.190’ E 34º 35.794’ S 136º 54.781’ E 35º 23.035’ S Yes, as long as nothing is disturbed 138º 23.267’ E 34º 35.794’ S 136º 54.781’ E 35º 17.241’ S A or removed Orcades Bank (Park 12 SZ-2) 138º 21.883’ E 34º 35.041’ S 137º 6.155’ E 35º 22.844’ S 138º 21.338’ E 34º 34.379’ S Q Can I fish from jetties? 138º 20.965’ E 34º 33.378’ S 137º 10.782’ E 35º 22.844’ S Yes, marine parks do not change existing 137º 10.782’ E 35º 27.715’ S Light River Mouth centre point A jetty fishing access 137º 6.155’ E 35º 27.715’ S 138º 21.570’ E 34º 34.729’ S Althorpe Island (RAZ - 1) RAZ - 1 Can I shore-fish in a Restricted Access Zone 1 is Althorpe Islands Restricted Access Zone 1 is a Defence Q sanctuary zone? Prohibited Area Prohibited Area 138º 10.642’ E 34º 16.177’ S In some yes, but in others no. A The maps show where shore fishing 138º 15.053’ E 34º 25.021’ S is allowed Lower Yorke Peninsula 138º 13.670’ E 34º 26.390’ S Marine Park 138º 12.802’ E 34º 26.451’ S Am I able to fish just outside of Q a sanctuary zone? Longitude Degrees Latitude Degrees 138º 10.354’ E 34º 24.702’ S Decimal Minutes Decimal Minutes A Yes Point Davenport (Park 13 SZ-1) 137º 20.453’E 35º 8.937’S Will other zones within a marine 137º 27.816’ E 35º 8.937’ S park, such as habitat protection Q zones, become sanctuary zones 137º 27.816’ E 35º 12.065’ S in the future? 137º 19.231’ E 35º 12.065’ S 137º 19.231’ E 35º 9.968’ S Not without full public consultation Salt Swamp Creek (Park 13 SZ-2) A and the approval of both Houses of 137º 43.647’ E 35º 3.157’ S Parliament. This is a requirement of the Marine Parks Act 2007 137º 43.673’ E 35º 3.254’ S

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I c h n h A l n r o k n o i C a c p S h s o S e R e l G Raking for crabs PORT GAWLER 40km from Adelaide Although not one of SA’s most well-known locations for scale fish, Port Gawler is definitely a hit with land-based crabbers. It’s just a half hour drive north of Adelaide and all you need to grab a feed of plump blue swimmers is a crab rake, plastic tub and a pair of old sneakers. It is here that the Gawler River enters Gulf St. Vincent via a small delta. Mullet, salmon trout, yellowfin whiting, flathead and bream can be caught near the river mouth, particularly around the last couple of hours of the flood tide. This is a reliable light tackle area, with either small lures or natural baits worth trying. Spring and summer are probably the best seasons to fish, although bream can be caught year-round. The best time of year for crabbing is just before Christmas through until March. The idea is to get there about an hour before low tide, then follow the water back in after the tide turns. Be mindful, of course, that blue swimmer crabs must measure at least 11 centimetres across the carapace from the base of the largest spine and that any females carrying external eggs are protected and can’t be taken.

10 PORT GAWLER, MIDDLE BEACH AND PORT PARHAM PORT PARHAM 67km from Adelaide This is easily the most famous and most regularly visited crab raking location in South Australia. When the blueys are at their peak after Christmas, it’s not unusual to see more than a hundred rakers walking the Parham sand flats, most of whom bring home a good feed of succulent crabs. Crabbing along the northern beaches is very much a social outing for most families. A barbecue and an esky full of drinks are nearly always standard equipment, along with sunblock, hats and plenty of ice to keep the MIDDLE BEACH catch cold. 45km from Adelaide Port Parham has a free camping ground for those wishing to stay overnight, but don’t forget the Accessible from Port Wakefield Road, Middle mozzie repellent! This is a mosquito breeding Beach consists of expansive tidal flats and a area and there are few things more likely to spoil dense mangrove fringe. These mangroves make an otherwise enjoyable day on the water than a up an integral part of the inshore ecosystem swarm of hungry mozzies. of eastern Gulf St. Vincent and are a significant nursery area for juvenile fish of many varieties. Yellowfin whiting are caught at Middle Beach in summer by those fishing the rising tide late in the afternoon. Live tube worms or nippers (marine yabbies) are the preferred baits. Nippers can be pumped from the sand flats when the tide is low and they are best fished on a very light line with tiny sinkers. Most of the yellowfin caught at Middle Beach are good size, ranging up to 35 centimetres on occasion. It is possible to launch a small boat here, but only around high tide. There are plenty of gar to be dabbed at night and King George whiting offshore over areas of broken bottom. Blue swimmer crabs are available to those prepared to wade the flats on the rising tide, particularly through the summer months. These vary in size, with the biggest crabs usually turning up late in the season. Provided you rake at the right time of day, it’s often possible to pick up a personal bag limit of blueys on a single tide.

yorkepeninsula.com.au 11 for dabbers on still, moonless evenings and King George whiting over broken bottom to the Port Wakefield Wharf south and east of the Port Wakefield channel. Size can be an issue when whiting fishing, but it is possible to pick up a feed of keepers from among the smaller ones. Snook are prolific PORT wakefield during the warmer months, most of which are 99km from Adelaide caught by trolling lures from small boats. Boat launching – Dual lane, boarding pontoon Blue crabs are available for both rakers and drop netters out of Port Wakefield and you’ll Port Wakefield is one of SA’s most historic find some thumper snapper swimming around maritime settlements and also a very the top of the gulf from late October onward. productive area for recreational anglers. Port These are spawning fish that migrate up the Wakefield used to be one of the busiest cargo gulf in vast aggregations before settling on ports in the state and was, in fact, the first recognised grounds to reproduce. There are settlement in the state north of Adelaide. It has a lot of artificial reefs between Port Wakefield a permanent population of around 540 and and Ardrossan, most of which were made by offers plenty of facilities and services for those either commercial or recreational anglers, planning a trip. and many hold big snapper during late spring The boat ramp offers dual lane launching with and summer. Fish of more than 10 kilograms floating pontoon for boarding. Getting out are common, with dawn and dusk the prime through the channel to open water depends feeding times. upon the size and draft of your boat and tide Most travelling anglers only ever get to see Port variations. At low tide it can be an issue as the Wakefield’s service stations and bakeries, but it’s a depth varies considerably. We recommend you fact that the location’s fishing potential is brilliant. plan your launch and retrieval around higher tides to avoid any issues. A Marine Park Sanctuary Zone restricts fishing activities offshore from Port There are nice yellowfin whiting available Wakefield. To ensure you are fishing legally, during the warmer months, plenty of garfish see pages 6 and 7 for more information.

12 PORT WAKEFIELD, PORT CLINTON AND PRICE crabs from small boats is also widely practised PORT CLINTON around Port Clinton. 126km from Adelaide A Marine Park Sanctuary Zone lies just to the north of Port Clinton, so make sure you don’t Boat launching – Beach ramp wet a line in the wrong area! See pages 6 and Very similar in coastal geography to the 7 for more information. opposite side of upper Gulf St. Vincent, Port Clinton is a tiny settlement with a permanent population of 260 and is within a comfortable Price 90 minute drive of Adelaide. Surrounded by an 133km from Adelaide 1850 hectare conservation park, Port Clinton is rich in birdlife and is the ideal location to Boat launching – Dual lane, all tide explore from a car-topper aluminium dinghy. Just seven kilometres south of Port Clinton, There is small boat launching available, but Price is a slightly smaller settlement with unless you have access to a tractor, it’s a bit substantial mangrove forests and associated tricky when the tide is well down, so it’s best to birdlife. There are two creek systems here - plan both launches and retrievals around high Shag Creek and Wills Creek - both of which water. Salmon trout and mullet are the two fish are very important fish nursery areas. Boat varieties that are easiest to locate and there are launching can be tricky again at low tide, but usually plenty of blue swimmer crabs about a little thoughtful planning can overcome any in the warmer months. Garfish can be prolific associated problems. around the top of Gulf St. Vincent at night and The Wills Creek boat ramp (also known as dabbing them with spotlight and long-handled “Grumpy’s Ramp”) often carries a lot of dead net is a popular activity at Port Clinton. ribbon weed, which can make launching a Offshore there are plenty of snapper ‘drops’, little challenging around low water. There is many of which are man-made from derelict also a strong tidal run in the creek, so take care car bodies, old boats and building refuse. during periods of peak water movement. There However, most of these are well-kept secrets is ample car and trailer parking, and a small and are guarded closely by their creators. Some launch fee applies. enormous snapper come from this region, a The Price creek system yields big mullet, few topping 14 kilograms, and it is well worth crabs, garfish, salmon trout and the occasional exploring with an echo sounder if you have the flathead, and is the ideal sheltered location time and patience. for small boat fishing. Those with larger boats King George whiting are taken regularly from often venture outside on to the gulf to catch Port Clinton, but many are undersize and King George whiting, snapper and plenty of must be thrown back. Those who persist can blue crabs in season. Price is a crabber’s delight, generally pick up a feed of bigger whiting, along and if you are there at the right time, pulling a with snook and plenty of small bronze whaler boat limit isn’t difficult. The months of January sharks in the summer months. Wading crabbers and February are peak time for blueys, but they do pretty well between Christmas and Easter can be caught from around October/November time, although the average size of the blueys through until March/April. can vary from season to season. Drop netting for

yorkepeninsula.com.au 13 Ardrossan Jetty Snapper, Ardrossan

best from late afternoon and into the evening, ardrossan especially from October through until Easter. 150km from Adelaide For those with a decent-sized trailer boat, Ardrossan can be an exciting place to fish. There Boat launching – Dual lane, all tide, are usually nice salmon around the end of the boarding pontoon bulk loading jetty and plenty of big snapper Ardrossan is the first substantial settlement further out. along Yorke Peninsula’s eastern shoreline and boasts excellent facilities for the visiting angler. The Ardrossan barge, which was deliberately The small, protected boat harbour, adjacent sunk south-east of the town back in 1984 to to the bulk loading jetty, provides safe and replace access to the historic Zanoni shipwreck convenient launching. It features pontoon site, has been a reliable spot for big snapper for boarding, all tide access and a spacious, sealed many years. Reds to 15 kilograms are caught car park. There are plenty of productive grounds here during the Christmas period each summer, within easy reach of the harbour, so you don’t along with slimy mackerel, whiting and the have to own a big boat to catch a decent feed. occasional large mulloway. Prime times to visit the barge are dusk and dawn, but big snapper Ardrossan lies about 150 kilometres by road can be caught throughout the night, particularly from Adelaide, so it is easily accessible for a around tide changes. Keep an eye out for great weekend stay or even a day trip. There are two white sharks, which are frequent visitors when jetties at Ardrossan, one of which is open to the snapper run is at its peak. public access and is very popular with visiting anglers. The second, much longer jetty is off There are plenty of good crab raking areas to limits to land-based fishers, but can be visited the north and south of the town and it is in a small boat. An oversized replica of a blue possible to dab gar and spear flounder in the crab greets you as you approach the town jetty, same locations when the tide is up and the providing a definite clue as to what you can water is calm. expect to catch. Marine Park’s Offshore Ardrossan Sanctuary Tommies, squid, snook, blue crabs, salmon Zone restricts fishing activities offshore from trout and mullet are bagged regularly from the Ardrossan around the Zanoni shipwreck. public jetty, as well as a few school mulloway To ensure you don’t wet a line in the wrong for those who put in the time. It is probably at its area, see pages 6 and 7 for more information.

14 ARDROSSAN, PINE POINT, BLACK POINT AND PORT JULIA of Black Point, as are several other recognised PINE POINT snapper patches to the east. 166km from Adelaide Summer crabbers catch thousands of blue swimmer crabs in drop nets around the Black Boat launching – Beach launch Point sand spit, and on calm, moonless Pine Point is an easy two hours’ drive from evenings there are garfish in good numbers for Adelaide. The population swells dramatically dabbers. The boat launching facility has been during peak holiday periods as the visiting masses redeveloped with a dual lane ramp that extends descend. This is a favourite wading area for those further into the sea. raking blue crabs, but it’s wise to keep a crab measuring gauge handy to ensure you are only taking the legal minimum size of 11 centimetres. PORT JULIA The best location for raking blueys seems to be 178km from Adelaide around Billy Goat Flat, which becomes totally Although rarely recognised as a productive exposed around low tide. There is a lot of rubble land-based fishing venue, Port Julia offers and rock on the flat, but it’s the broken ground plenty for those with small boats. The short fringed with sand and weed that produces the jetty becomes almost high and dry around low best crabbing. Optimum time to be out there tide, but can yield surprising catches when with your tub and rake is just after the tide turns the water is up. It is quite popular with visiting to come in, when the crabs are mostly buried, anglers in the warmer months, with reasonable but quite easy to detect. Simply follow the tide catches of squid and tommies made after dark. back in as it floods and look for those telltale Young anglers with the right equipment often grey mounds in the sand that often signal a tangle with big eagle rays and small bronze crab in residence. whaler sharks from the jetty, and there are blue swimmer crabs available in season. BLACK POINT Yellowfin whiting action along the adjacent 170km from Adelaide beaches can be rewarding in the warmer months, and there are also some big mullet Boat launching – Dual lane from Easter onward. Port Julia is totally exposed Black Point has become a real seaside to the strong summer sea breezes, making playground. A long, sandy and relatively small boats a little risky in the afternoons. There protected north-facing beach sweeps around are whiting, gar, crabs and squid offshore from at 90 degrees to the coastline, offering great nearby Sheaoak Flat. shelter from the dominant summer south- Night time gar dabbers often do very well easterly winds. off Port Julia, particularly when the water is There are King George whiting, gar, tommies, clear and calm and there is little moonlight. salmon trout, blue crabs and snook in the bay All you need for this fun activity is a small, and for those with larger boats and a bit of local manoeuvrable boat, a handheld spotlight and knowledge, some big snapper offshore. The a long-handled net. Garfish can be dabbed at Ardrossan barge is well within trailer boat range any time after the sun goes down and it’s often possible to bag several dozen in quick time.

yorkepeninsula.com.au 15 PORT VINCENT Offshore at Port Vincent 192km from Adelaide Tommies, gar, snook and blue crabs are also well within range of the small boat brigade, but Boat launching – Dual lane, all tide, as the bay is open to winds from the south- boarding pontoon east, care should be taken on typically breezy Port Vincent is about two and a half hours summer afternoons. The boat ramp, located by road from Adelaide and now attracts within the confines of the marina, is one of the thousands of visiting boaties annually. With best on Yorke Peninsula. It can cater for trailer a marina and all-weather launching facilities, boats of virtually any size at any stage of the tide it’s a great access point for both inshore and and offers a spacious car and trailer park and offshore fishing. The Orontes Bank, renowned good security for those staying out overnight. for its snapper and big whiting, is less than 10 Port Vincent has no jetty for recreational fishing, kilometres out to sea, and there are plenty of but there is a conveniently located wharf that good whiting bottom to the east and south-east attracts plenty of interest from visitors. Tommies of the marina. and mullet are regular catches from the wharf, You’ll need a larger boat to fish the Orontes along with the occasional nice bream. Best safely, but those with small boats can look results from the wharf seem to come from late forward to excellent squid fishing close in along afternoon into the evening. the coast immediately south of Port Vincent. As is the case right along this stretch of Simply drift over the inshore weed beds with a coastline, there are opportunities for crab raking couple of artificial jigs set just above the bottom on the flats adjacent to Port Vincent, with most and, if conditions are right, catching a good feed of the summer blueys of excellent size. shouldn’t be a problem.

16 PORT VINCENT AND STANSBURY but hauls of half a dozen fish per angler are STANSBURY common and some are better than 40 centimetres. 206km from Adelaide Cockle baits will catch these whiting, but better Boat launching – Dual lane, all tide, results are achieved by those who use live tube boarding pontoon worms or pieces of peeled green prawn meat. Legendary among those who visit Yorke Keep the tackle as light as possible, as inshore Peninsula regularly, Stansbury is situated on whiting can be touchy at times, shying away Oyster Bay. from heavy sinkers and thick nylon traces. The It’s a comfortable two and a half hour drive from offshore fishing for King George whiting can Adelaide and has an excellent jetty that attracts be excellent too, particularly during the cooler a lot of visiting anglers when the weather is months. This is when the fish are generally right. This jetty is good for blue crabs in the bigger and tend to school up in better numbers. summer, as well as squid, mullet, gar, tommies Inshore squidding can be action-packed when and snook at night under the lights. Stansbury’s the water is clear, especially for those drifting back beach is great for big mullet in the autumn the weed beds in small boats just after sunrise. and it’s also possible to rake blue swimmer Those trailering fishing boats to Stansbury crabs in the same location. can look forward to excellent launching Surprisingly, Stansbury jetty also produces facilities. The ramp is multi-laned with twin some thumper King George whiting at times. floating boarding pontoons and a small, The best whiting come from the seaward end, but strategically positioned breakwater for where the bottom is a mixture of sand, tape protection from summer winds. The car and weed and low limestone outcrops. Don’t expect trailer park is sealed and quite secure for to catch a bag limit of whiting from the jetty, overnight expeditions.

yorkepeninsula.com.au 17 WOOL BAY 215km from Adelaide It’s almost three hours by road from Adelaide to Wool Bay, but it’s worth the trip. Here you’ll find one of the best squidding jetties in South Australia. A casual stroll along the jetty will reveal wall-to-wall squid ink, indicating just how many of the delectable cephalopods are caught here annually. It’s a busy jetty during holiday periods and on warm summer evenings, but squid numbers are still high. Tommies and some nice gar are also available PORT GILES from the jetty, with best catches coming from 222km from Adelaide late afternoon through into the evening. Use Port Giles has long been one of SA’s most a floating rig and gents for bait and make sure popular and reliable jetty fishing venues. The you have a steady berley source to entice and long bulk handling pier was built over existing hold the fish. A mixture of soaked stale bread, snapper grounds and was a truly remarkable bran and some tuna oil will usually have the place to fish back in the 1960s and ‘70s. The tommies and gar lined up for a feed. jetty is open to recreational fishers when there Those keen enough to fish well into the wee isn’t any shipping or maintenance activity. small hours often do best at Wool Bay, with the Visit http://portmis.flindersports.com.au for period around sunrise sometimes prime time access information. for calamari. Artificial squid jigs generally work There is productive boat fishing for snapper and well, but employing a ‘teaser’ line with a whole whiting to the north and south of the Port Giles tommy ruff or gar regularly improves the catch. jetty. It’s just a short trip from the Edithburgh To escape the jetty hordes, launching a small boat harbour in good weather and although aluminium dinghy from the beach will often the snapper action isn’t as consistent as it result in bag limit catches of squid, many of once was, there is still a chance of pulling a 20 which are quite large. There are some King pounder if your luck is in. Likewise, hauls of 40 George whiting, snapper and snook offshore, centimetre-plus King George whiting are often but the nearest launching for bigger trailer made on the grounds about five kilometres boats is either Edithburgh or Stansbury. south-east of Port Giles jetty.

18 WOOL BAY, PORT GILES AND EDITHBURGH EDITHBURGH 227km from Adelaide Edithburgh Jetty Boat launching – Dual lane, all tide, boarding pontoon Tapley Shoal is a favourite area for charter boat It’s roughly three hours by road from Adelaide operators, but as it comes from relatively deep to Edithburgh - a trip made by thousands of water and is subject to strong tides, it’s not an hopeful holiday anglers each year. This delightful, easy area to fish. Local knowledge is essential historic port has a medium-length jetty that is for anyone venturing to the Shoal, both to renowned for its night time tommy ruff catches optimise chances of a good catch and for safety and also yields plenty of squid on still summer reasons. It’s definitely not the place to be in a evenings. Edithburgh is one of the few jetties that small boat on a choppy day! consistently produces King George whiting, which The rock fishing between Edithburgh and are generally caught by casting well out from Troubridge Point can be rewarding at times, the south-eastern corner. There has also been with big snook, salmon and a few snapper the odd big snapper taken from the jetty, so it’s caught when inshore conditions are favourable. well worth setting a big bait on the bottom while Some of the better fishing is done with whole concentrating on smaller species. pilchard baits set beneath polystyrene floats. With a permanent population of around 450, Both salmon and snook are suckers for this style Edithburgh offers good facilities and services. A of presentation and can provide great sport. modern boat harbour with multi-lane launching King George whiting are easy to locate in the and floating boarding pontoons can handle bay at Edithburgh and most are of good size. trailer boats of any size at any stage of the tide. When the water is clear, a lot of whiting are taken From here it’s just a short run out to Tapley by drifting over areas of broken bottom, as are Shoal, which is a renowned area for snapper and squid and snook. Night time gar dabbers often big King George whiting. net plenty of big fish in the summer time when the water is calm and there is little or no moon.

yorkepeninsula.com.au 19 STURT BAY/ FOUL BAY marion bay Foul Bay, 268km from Adelaide 283km from Adelaide Foul Bay Boat launching – Single lane, not Boat launching – Single lane, not recommended at low tide recommended at low tide Although the ‘sole’ of the Yorke Peninsula ‘foot’ There are few locations on Yorke Peninsula that doesn’t attract as much of the limelight as many can match the reputation of Marion Bay for more prominent locations, it can be a very its deep water fishing. It is the largest coastal productive stretch of coastline to fish. settlement along the bottom of Yorke Peninsula Sturt Bay is a mullet fisher’s paradise from late with a permanent population of 120. Marion March through into the winter and most of the Bay is situated just before the entrance to Innes fish are big, silver and in prime condition. Be National Park and is popular as a base for both on the beach early with a rising tide to find the anglers and surfers. mullet at their hungriest and make sure to have The long jetty at Marion Bay is legendary for a good supply of berley to attract and hold them its big squid and there are thousands of mullet in the general fishing area. By far the best bait for caught along the beaches from Easter onwards. mullet are the local seaweed worms, which can Seaweed worms are the ‘gun’ bait for these tasty be dug from beneath rotting ribbon weed piled little fish and they are quite easy to come by in up in some spots along the beach. piles of decaying ribbon weed found lying on There are some enormous King George whiting the beach. Keep the tackle really light for the in the deeper water off Sturt Bay, particularly at best results on mullet and have a good supply the Point Davenport end. Fish to more than of bread-based berley on hand to maintain 50 centimetres are caught at times, along their interest. with rugger snapper, school sharks and some Despite the convenience of the jetty and nice flathead. beaches, it is the offshore fishing that draws Despite its rather uninspiring name, Foul Bay is most anglers to this area. Those with large trailer also a legendary location for truly big whiting. boats can venture well out into Investigator The reefy areas off Point Yorke often yield Strait and beyond to fish the deep water kilogram-plus whiting, and medium snapper grounds. Launching a decent boat at Marion Bay sometimes put in an appearance toward the can be a problem, particularly for those without beginning of summer. The launching ramp isn’t a four wheel drive tow vehicle. It’s dicey when the best at low tide and those with larger trailer the swell is up and also when dead seaweed craft often drive across from Marion Bay. piles up after strong onshore winds. Some locals employ old farm tractors as launch vehicles, Further west of Foul Bay is Butlers Beach and eliminating most of the problems associated Salmon Beach. These beaches offer good with what is essentially a sub-standard ramp. catches of salmon, mullet and King George whiting. Access is through Hillocks Drive, a These hassles aside, the offshore waters can private property, a small entrance fee applies. be bountiful for species such as snapper, nannygai, big whiting, sharks, squid and even A Marine Park Sanctuary Zone is located tuna and samson fish. Those anglers who are near Point Davenport, which extends well keen to fish offshore from Marion Bay, but into Foul Bay. To ensure you don’t wet a line either haven’t got a big enough boat or lack the in the wrong area, see pages 6 and 7 for confidence required, can take advantage of a more information. local fishing charter.

20 STURT BAY/FOUL BAY, MARION BAY AND WEDGE ISLAND WEDGE ISLAND

Marion Bay Jetty Accessible via big boat from Marion Bay or by aeroplane from Adelaide and Warooka, Wedge has developed a massive reputation as an King George whiting to well over one kilogram angler’s paradise. It is part of the Gambier group are taken regularly in the waters east of Marion of islands and is situated in lower Spencer Gulf. Bay or outside in Investigator Strait. There are also plenty of snapper in the warmer months, A handful of trailer boat operators visit Wedge varying from just-legal ruggers up to 10 kilo each year, but by far the safest and most thumpers, as well as silver trevally, blue groper convenient way to sample the action is on (which must be returned if caught) and a board a Marion Bay-based charter boat. This is variety of small sharks. Southern bluefin tuna big water in a remote location and is no place to occasionally venture close enough to Marion be in a small craft if the weather blows up. Bay for the big boat brigade to chase, but only All manner of deep water fish are available when prevailing weather conditions are perfect. around the island and on adjacent reef systems and bommies. Snapper of all sizes, big A Marine Park Sanctuary Zone extends from nannygai, yellowtail kings, samson fish, XOS Chinamans Hat Island out to Seal Island and whiting and blue morwong are among the usual surrounds. To ensure you are fishing legally, see pages 6 and 7 for more information. charter catch and it’s sometimes possible to hook southern bluefin tuna during the annual summer/spring run. Most charter operators visit Wedge on an Innes National Park extended trip basis, usually staying on or Innes National Park is the perfect place near the island for between two and five days. to let your mind drift away as you Luxurious beach house accommodation is gaze over the ocean. Home to iconic available as part of a charter package, which native wildlife, shipwrecks, lighthouse really adds to the experience and makes for views and great walking trails, Innes a pleasant way to end a successful day on National Park provides the perfect the water. opportunity to reconnect with nature. Wedge Island has good fishing year-round, with Camping and accommodation options bigger snapper available from late spring into are available. Entry fees, camping and the summer months. Nannygai can be expected accommodation bookings must be pre- consistently, while kingfish are most reliable purchased online at www.parks.sa.gov.au, during summer and autumn. Big salmon often at a local agent or at the Natural patrol the long beach on Wedge’s northern end, Resource Centre (08) 8854 3200. making great sport for both boaties and land- based lure casters.

yorkepeninsula.com.au 21 STENHOUSE BAY 289km from Adelaide Once one of Australia’s richest gypsum mining Stenhouse Bay Jetty areas, Stenhouse Bay has the southern most jetty on Yorke Peninsula. The jetty used to be off limits to recreational anglers, but when the gypsum mine closed, the 290 metre pier was upgraded and set aside for visiting fisher folk to BROWNS BEACH enjoy. This is a great place to fish for big sharks 311km from Adelaide if you have the right equipment, but most who visit the jetty try for tommies and squid. There Few other surf beaches in South Australia have are no lights on the jetty for night fishing, so a received as much publicity over the years as good lantern is an important part of the kit. Browns. As it is situated within Innes National Park, you’ll have to pay an entry fee to fish Mullet are often caught in the shallows, with at Browns and get a camping permit to stay tommies, squid and a few snook coming from overnight. Both can be purchased online at deeper water. There have been big snapper www.parks.sa.gov.au. Browns is legendary for taken from the end of the jetty, but the its salmon fishing, but it is one of those ‘feast or abundant rays will usually grab a bait on the famine’ locations that runs hot one day, then bottom and make life tough for all but the most goes cold the next. determined angler. It’s a reasonable walk from the car park to the jetty and back, so carrying a Walking from the Browns Beach car park to mountain of tackle isn’t advised. the far end of the beach requires a reasonable degree of fitness. The sand can be quite soft in Autumn and winter are probably the best places and those who aren’t in the best physical seasons to try your luck at Stenhouse Bay, as condition will definitely have raised a puff by the the prevailing winds are offshore and the waters time they are ready to begin fishing. The beach can be calm for extended periods. Big tommies is fronted by a substantial reef system that are available at this time of year, with the best forms a type of lagoon and it is into this lagoon catches coming between dusk and dawn. As the the salmon schools venture in search of baitfish. jetty is situated within Innes National Park, entry Catching them can be as easy as flicking out and camping fees apply. Pay for entry fees and a metal lure one day or near impossible when book camping at www.parks.sa.gov.au before they are in a fussy mood. It definitely pays to entering the park. Agents also sell entry and carry both lures and some fresh pilchards to camping permits. cover all bases.

22 STENHOUSE BAY, BROWNS BEACH AND DALY HEAD, THE DUSTHOLE Big mullet are caught in the surf at Browns as well, particularly during their annual autumn DALY HEAD, THE DUSTHOLE migration around lower Yorke Peninsula. 277km from Adelaide These will take a wide variety of baits and are sometimes caught on salmon gear. It is pretty As far as surf beaches go, there are few in the much an all-year fishery, but be prepared to state that can match the splendour of the keep coming back if you don’t strike salmon Dusthole at Daly Head. It is a comfortable there on your first visit. 20 minute drive from Marion Bay and provides several kilometres of surf fishing opportunities It is imperative that those anglers who visit for both salmon and mulloway enthusiasts. Browns Beach leave the place as tidy as they Up until a few years ago it was necessary to found it. Litter has been a constant problem climb down a reasonably difficult hill at the over the years, with the Department of northern end of Dusthole Beach to access Environment, Water and Natural Resources the sand, but the installation of a wooden seriously considering a general closure at one staircase has now made it a safer and far more stage. Plastic bait bags, paper, fish carcasses, convenient place to fish. drink cans and sundry other refuse left on the beach can only be detrimental to future access, Big salmon can be expected around Daly Head so please take your rubbish with you. and the Dusthole at any time of year, but are probably most reliable during winter and spring. The key to catching them in numbers is to first locate a decent ‘gutter’ along the beach – a channel through the surf where deep water acts as a thoroughfare for both baitfish and predators. Casting pilchards into such a gutter, usually on a rising tide, is the most reliable way of attracting the interest of feeding salmon, but they will also take metal lures. Quite often it is possible to locate salmon schools from the headland before venturing on to the beach, particularly if the fish are congregating near the northern end. They appear as a tight mass of dark shapes and can sometimes be confused with moving seaweed patches. Summer is mulloway time at the Dusthole. A decent rising tide is preferred and if it peaks just after sunset, so much the better. There have been mulloway to more than 30 kilograms caught on this beach, but persistence is the key. A few anglers will fish all night, also tangling with various sharks and rays. The best baits for mulloway in this location are fresh squid heads, salmon fillets and whole mullet. Browns Beach

yorkepeninsula.com.au 23 CORNY POINT 265km from Adelaide

Gleesons Landing One of the very best things about Corny Point is its proximity to both productive beach fishing and top class offshore action. Many who try their luck in the surf at Gleesons Landing, Berry GLEESONS LANDING Bay or Daly Head use Corny as a base. 275km from Adelaide Situated right on the north-western tip of Yorke Peninsula’s ‘foot’, Corny is a small settlement Boat launching – Beach ramp that relies heavily on tourist dollars for its Most of the surf beaches on the ‘foot’ of Yorke wellbeing. As well as top class beach fishing Peninsula that face south or west are visited nearby, Corny Point provides access to some by salmon, particularly during the autumn and of the eastern Spencer Gulf’s best deep water winter months. Gleesons Landing, situated grounds. Its snapper and King George whiting about 20 kilometres south of Corny Point, is fishing is legendary and most who own popular with weekend surf fishers, but it can holiday houses here are equipped with large, be inconsistent. A four-wheel drive vehicle will seaworthy boats. assist with access, but it is possible to park away There is no boat ramp at Corny and only those from the beach and walk in. with access to a tractor can launch a trailer boat Big mulloway are taken occasionally from safely. The Corny Point Caravan Park offers a Gleesons from late October through until the tractor launch and retrieval service at a very end of summer, but only by those who put in reasonable rate. Some of the better snapper the hours. Fish to 25 kilograms and better have fishing can be found in deep water to the west been caught, with fresh fish fillets and squid and north-west of the lighthouse, with summer heads the most productive baits. A rising tide again the most reliable season. Whiting are that peaks just after sunset is ideal and, as caught year-round and it is possible to find with the Dusthole, it is imperative to survey the them not far offshore in the winter time. There beach to find a deep gutter prior to fishing. are plenty of squid over the inshore ribbon weed beds, some big snook and good numbers Nice mullet and a few salmon are caught from of garfish when the water is warm. Easter throughout the cooler months, along with sharks and rays of various species and Gar dabbing is quite popular at Corny Point, sizes. It is wise to cover all bases when fishing particularly with those in small boats. You’ll Gleesons, with a light rod for mullet, a medium need a powerful handheld spotlight, fine mesh outfit for salmon and a heavier stick for sharks dab net and a fully charged 12 volt battery for a and mulloway. few hours’ dabbing and, of course, the catch will be much better when the moon is down.

24 GLEESONS LANDING, CORNY POINT, POINT TURTON AND PORT RICKABY The whiting fishing, in particular, is very consistent all year-round and there are heaps of squid in close for those with small boats. It’s also a gar dabber’s paradise, especially on warm summer evenings with little or no moon. Spearing flounder at night with the aid of a spotlight can be productive around Point Turton, but it has to be dead calm and moonless. The flats to the east of the boat harbour are well worth a try and there can be good flathead here as well. PORT RICKABY POINT TURTON 216km from Adelaide Boat launching – Beach launch 232km from Adelaide Although Port Rickaby receives limited exposure Boat launching – Dual lane, all tide, through the angling media, the truth is it’s a boarding pontoon pretty good location to try, particularly if you’re Situated just a short drive from Warooka, after a decent feed of squid. Located about 35 this progressive little resort has become very kilometres north of Point Turton, Rickaby is a popular in recent times with visiting anglers. quaint little settlement with its own jetty and It has a permanent population of around 250, caravan park. which swells considerably during holiday Although the jetty isn’t a long one, it produces periods and long weekends. The jetty is very a few mullet throughout the autumn and early consistent for big tommies at night time, as well winter and plenty of tommies, gar and squid as squid, snook and garfish. The caravan park year-round. Most of the regular Rickaby calamari at Turton is among the best equipped on Yorke catchers use artificial jigs suspended beneath Peninsula, and its close proximity to both the a styrene float. The technique is simple; cast jetty and launching ramp enhance its appeal the jig as far as possible from the jetty, retrieve to visitors. it slowly and erratically and wait for a hungry Point Turton jetty fishes well year-round, but it squid to hop on. Most of the squid are good is the warm summer evenings that attract most ones, and by far the best times to try are late visiting anglers. Float fishing with gents for bait afternoon/early evening and sunrise. There are will produce the tommies and gar and it’s a no lights on the jetty, so make sure you have a good idea to have a couple of small lures in the torch or lantern handy for illumination. tackle box for snook. It is not uncommon to see There is reasonable boat launching here from small yellowtail kingfish around the Turton jetty, the beach, but no established ramp, so a but they are often difficult to catch. four-wheel drive or tractor are mandatory. The boat harbour with multi-lane ramp Rickaby is a great location for big King George provides access to excellent fishing grounds whiting, which bite year-round on the offshore to the north and west. There is a fish cleaning grounds, and snapper of mixed sizes during the facility adjacent to the ramp car park, which is warmer months. There are also plenty of snook in regular demand. to be caught over the inshore ribbon weed beds.

yorkepeninsula.com.au 25

A Marine Park Sanctuary Zone is located PORT VICTORIA near Point Pearce. To ensure you don’t wet a line in the wrong area, see pages 6 and 7 195km from Adelaide for more information. Boat launching – Dual lane, all tide, boarding pontoon Situated just a couple of hours’ drive from BALGOWAN Adelaide, Port Victoria is one of the western 192km from Adelaide Yorke Peninsula towns that has really excelled in Boat launching – Single lane, all tide recent times, with most facilities now first class. The town jetty is a good one for squid, snook, Balgowan rarely grabs as much of the fishing gar and big tommies at night, and offshore there spotlight as higher profile neighbours like Port are plenty of snapper and big whiting. Wardang Hughes or Port Victoria, but it remains one Island protects the bay at Port Victoria from of Yorke Peninsula’s very best locations for strong onshore winds. The fishing in the bay snapper and King George whiting. Whiting can is generally excellent, particularly for whiting be found year-round and some are absolute during the cooler months. Many of these fish are giants of 50 centimetres plus. It is also of the better than 40 centimetres and can be caught most popular Yorke Peninsula destinations for from a number of recognised grounds when keen snapper anglers. The boat ramp car park conditions are right. is often full to overflowing when the season reopening coincides with good weather. The L-shaped jetty can provide a lot of fun at Snapper of mixed sizes can be taken on a night for those who enjoy catching snook. These number of grounds, which range from just a few fish aren’t the giants regularly caught offshore, kilometres from the ramp all the way out to the but average approximately 60 centimetres and Spencer Gulf shipping lanes. they are often keen to grab small minnow lures or strip baits. The best way to hook them is to The single lane boat ramp is located just west of cast lure or bait out into the shadows at night, the general store, but it doesn’t have a floating then work it back through the illuminated area boarding pontoon and can be a little tricky under the jetty lights. Catches of a dozen snook around dead low tide. The ramp is protected or more per session are common on still, warm by a small breakwater to the west, but is open summer evenings. to winds from the north. Some locals prefer to launch from the beach via tractor. Boat launching at Port Victoria is very convenient. The ramp is situated just south of Best times to visit Balgowan are autumn (when the town and can handle bigger trailer boats at the weather is calmest) and, if you have a larger all stages of the tide. Snapper fishing around trailer boat, summer for big snapper. Incessant and beyond Wardang Island is first rate during south-easterly winds can make summer fishing the summer months, but you’ll need a big, fast a challenge, but the results are often well worth trailer boat to access the wide grounds safely. It the long boat rides and choppy seas. can be quite blowy during the afternoons and is A Marine Park Sanctuary Zone is located no place to be in a small tinny. Those with small south of Cape Elizabeth, extending well out boats are better advised to remain within the into Spencer Gulf. To ensure you don’t wet a confines of the bay, where there are still whiting, line in the wrong area, see pages 6 and 7 for snook and plenty of calamari to be hooked. more information.

26 PORT VICTORIA, BALGOWAN AND PORT HUGHES skipper to cover 100 kilometres in a single day, depending on where the fish are located. Cape Elizabeth to the south-west produces some of the biggest whiting, along with salmon up to around two kilograms in late winter. The salmon can be caught in close to the reefs south PORT HUGHES of the Cape, with trolled lures the best option. There are some really big snook in this area as 165km from Adelaide well, so a trolling session can be quite rewarding. Boat launching – Dual lane, all tide, The Port Hughes steamer channel, some 20 boarding pontoon kilometres offshore, is where many of the area’s Few anglers visiting Yorke Peninsula for any truly big snapper are caught between October length of time drive past Port Hughes without and April. This is big boat territory only, as it stopping off to check out the fishing potential. can become quite rough out wide under the Located just north of Balgowan around the influence of summer afternoon sea breezes. The other side of Cape Elizabeth, Port Hughes channel is an area of heavy tide run, so snapper is one of the most popular all round fishing trips need to be planned to coincide with the venues on Yorke Peninsula. It has a long jetty, turn of either high or low water. small boat harbour with dual lane ramp and a Tiparra Reef, west of the Port Hughes jetty, is a wide range of accommodation options. Once reliable area for squid, snook and big garfish. again, it is snapper and King George whiting The best way of catching snook in this area is to that most visiting boaties want to catch anchor and set up a steady berley trail of cut fish offshore, but there are plenty of snook, gar pieces or crushed pilchards. The snook can then and squid as alternative species. be hooked on either lures or unweighted baits. There are a variety of charter fishing options. Blue swimmer crabs, garfish, tommies and squid Most of the local operators run big, seaworthy are the regular fare from the long jetty, which boats, as catching snapper in the summer time attracts thousands of anglers over the course often involves lengthy trips to far-flung grounds. of a year. Early morning and evening are prime It’s not unusual for an experienced charter times for jetty triers.

yorkepeninsula.com.au 27 Moonta Bay Jetty

The tide goes out a long way in Moonta Bay, MOONTA BAY regularly leaving half the jetty high and dry, but 165km from Adelaide there is still enough water at the seaward end to catch a fish or two. By far the best period to fish The long, L-shaped jetty in Moonta Bay rarely from this pier is later in the afternoon and into rates a mention in the fishing press, but it can early evening, especially when the tide is on the be well worth a visit when tides and weather way in. are favourable. It’s the old standbys – tommy ruffs, garfish and squid that make up the bulk of Set up a berley trail to attract gar and tommies the catch at Moonta Bay – and it has become a and have a squid jig ready at all times. Using a favourite venue with many visiting fishing families. float rig is probably best, with either gents, cray tail or pieces of cockle for bait. Keep hook size down to number eight or smaller and use only as much weight as necessary. As is often the case at nearby locations such as Port Victoria and Port Hughes, small to medium size snook visit the Moonta Bay jetty at night and these are worth a shot with either minnow lures or strip baits. A sliver of squid or fish fillet on ganged hooks will often attract their attention, but you will need a small bean sinker or several Garfish split shot to add some casting weight to the rig.

28 MOONTA BAY AND WALLAROO WALLAROO Wallaroo Jetty

156km from Adelaide These fish are at their best when the winds are Boat launching – Dual lane, all tide, strong and onshore during the winter months. boarding pontoon Dawn is the ideal time to be at Point Riley and you’ll need a capable surf rod and either squid Wallaroo is endowed with one of the best fishing or fish fillets for bait. The inshore snapper vary jetties in the state. It stretches out into quite from just legal up to 10 kilograms and better, so deep water, where big snapper visit from time the tackle has to be robust. to time. Occasionally 20 pounders are caught and there are yellowtail kingfish hooked as well. Wallaroo’s marina complex provides multi-lane Evening is the best for tommies, which are often boat launching and permanent waterside quite large. The commercial end of the jetty accommodation. The fishing inside the marina is closed to recreational fishing when there is isn’t bad either, with nice bream and yellowfin shipping or maintenance activity. You can check whiting taken regularly. School mulloway have access at http://portmis.flindersports.com.au been hooked as well, so setting a small live bait in the evening could bring a bonus hook up. If it’s snapper you’re after, best catches are Kayakers often do well in the marina using small made from the jetty during and directly after soft plastic lures for both bream and mulloway. heavy weather. Blue swimmer crabs are available during the warmer months, so it’s a Wallaroo’s offshore snapper and whiting fishing good idea to include a couple of drop nets with are excellent, particularly from October through long ropes. Fish heads are top crab bait and into the New Year. Big snapper are caught both remember, it is illegal to use baits such as red north and south of the port, and there are meat or chicken. whiting patches throughout the bay. This is also an exceptional area for squid when the inshore Rock fishers often catch snapper from the shore waters are clear. at Point Riley, which is a short drive to the north.

yorkepeninsula.com.au 29 PORT BROUGHTON 173 km from Adelaide Boat launching – Dual lane, all tide, boarding pontoon

Port Broughton has developed an enviable the Illusion and Plank Shoal, which can produce reputation over the years as one of Australia’s snapper up to 14 kilograms. premier locations for truly big snapper. This rather unique inlet from upper Spencer Gulf Charter operators are on hand to take paying offers many angling alternatives, from light clients out to the offshore snapper grounds, estuary through to heavy offshore. The inlet most of whom are highly experienced and itself is almost totally protected from strong regularly achieve exciting results. It is not winds and provides some first class fishing for uncommon for charter groups to catch a boat yellowfin whiting in the winter time. Yellowfin limit of snapper to 13 kilograms or better. to 40 centimetres provide terrific light tackle The area’s King George whiting are generally action from the jetty, with tube worms, prawns medium size, but there are a few bigger ones and clickers the preferred baits. These fish are taken offshore in deeper water. caught day and night and most who are there You’ll need a good size boat with a big fuel at the right time have little trouble filling the range, as many of the snapper grounds are personal quota. well offshore – sometimes further than halfway There are salmon, trout, mullet and tommies across the Gulf. available for much of the year, along with some There are plenty of snook offshore as well, along nice garfish when conditions are calm. However, with squid, gar and the occasional flathead. it is Port Broughton’s offshore potential for Boat launching facilities at Broughton are top class snapper fishing that really stirs the excellent. The ramp features dual lanes, twin imagination of visiting anglers. There are some boarding pontoons, ample security lighting and terrific deep water grounds, such as the wreck of a spacious, sealed car park.

30 PORT BROUGHTON AND REFERENCE CHART Reference Chart Time of Hook Line Fish Species Season Best Baits Day Size Weight

BLUE SWIMMER Summer, Fish heads, All day N/A N/A CRABS (Blueys) autumn squid

Tube worms, All year, Dawn and BREAM prawn, rock #4 3-4kg spring best dusk crabs

Pilchards, squid, #2 - FLATHEAD All year All day 4-6kg fish strips #4/0

GARFISH Summer, Gents, prawn, All day #10 3-4kg (gar) autumn cockles

KING GEORGE Cockles, prawn, All year All day #2-#4 4-6kg WHITING squid, cuttlefish

Autumn, Seaweed MULLET All day #10 3-4kg winter worms, cockles

Fish fillets, Dusk into #6/0- MULLOWAY Summer 10-15kg squid heads the night #8/0

Autumn, Pilchards, fish Dusk and #2/0- SALMON 6-8kg winter fillets dawn #4/0

All year, but Pilchards, fish Dusk and #4/0- SNAPPER 8-10kg summer best fillets, squid dawn #7/0

All day, #2- SNOOK All year Lures, fish strips night from 4-6kg #2/0 jetties

Artificial jigs, Dusk into SQUID All year N/A N/A wire jigs the night

Gents, prawn, Evening TOMMY RUFF All year #10 3-4kg cockles best

YELLOWFIN Summer, Clickers, tube All day #6 3-4kg WHITING autumn worms, prawn

Daily size, boat and bag limits apply to all these species. For information, download the free SA Recreational Fishing Guide app from your app store, call the 24-hour Fishwatch hotline on 1800 065 522, or SMS a fish name to 0427 767 995.

yorkepeninsula.com.au 31 fishing charters Captain Cook Fishing Wildfishin Charters Charters

Full and half-day charters, departing from Experience fishing Moonta Bay and the 76 Pommern Way, Wallaroo Marina surrounding waters of Spencer Gulf Weather permitting we depart daily from Port • 10.5m Stebar Hughes. M.V. Masquerade is certified to carry • Keep your own catch up to 12 passengers. All bait and tackle supplied • All bait, tackle and soft drinks supplied (or use your own equipment if you prefer). • Toilet on board Specialised trips or extended charters are • Bring lunch and a large esky for your catch available on request. • Gift vouchers available Moonta Bay Ph/Fax: (08) 8825 3603 Contact Ray Cook Mob: 0428 253 603 Mob: 0429 621 557 www.wildfishin.com.au fishing supplies AND boat hire Port Vincent Outdoors Yorke Peninsula Marine

Kayak and stand-up paddle board sales and hire. • Well-equipped service centre Fishing, bait and tackle. • Service and repairs to all makes and models A huge range of ladies wear, beach accessories, • Mercruiser specialists water shoes, mask and snorkel sets, rashies and sunnies for the whole family. Open in summer 9am–5pm, seven days, Winter 10am–4pm Tuesday–Friday and 9am–12pm Saturdays. 50 Port Road, Kadina Main Street, Port Vincent Ph: (08) 8821 2604 Mob: 0423 232 766 Mob: 0419 840 305 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.portvincentoutdoors.com.au www.ypmarine.com.au

32 FISHING CHARTERS, FISHING SUPPLIES AND BOAT HIRE AND GENERAL INFORMATION general information

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Copper Coast Boat Ramps

Whether you are a keen ocean fisher with your own boat, interested in joining a charter, feel like relaxing on the historic jetties or standing on white sandy beaches – The Copper Coast has got it all. Excellent boat ramp facilities with ample parking at Port Hughes and Wallaroo. Ticket machines onsite or call (08) 88281200 for annual permits. The Copper Coast has lots of attractions to visit, things to do, great places to eat and accommodation to suit all budgets.

For more information on the Copper Coast call 1800 654 991

yorkepeninsula.com.au 33 general information

Hillocks Drive Cruising Yacht Club of SA (Butler’s Beach) Port Vincent Marina

Hillocks Drive Bush Camping Safe, Convenient and Affordable Natural bush camping area adjacent to 7km of Looking for a great spot to berth your boat for scenic coastline. Excellent fishing, hiking and a night, a week, or a little longer? Port Vincent photography. Hillocks Ocean Pod and Homestead Marina accommodates both small and large rental available. • Part of Walk the Yorke walking boats. A destination for large boats heading trail • Unpowered camping • Day visit • Shop over from Adelaide and smaller trailerable boats • Water • Bait/tackle/ice • Toilets/hot showers can avoid the daily hassle of the busy boat • Barbecue • 16km east of Marion Bay ramp, enquire now. Hillocks Drive Located on Yorke Peninsula Ph: (08) 8854 4002 Mob: 0488 544 040 Mob: 0414 611 110 (Rob, Marina Manager) Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.hillocksdrive.com www.cycsa.com.au

34 GENERAL INFORMATION, FOOD & WINE AND ACCOMMODATION food and wine Barley Stacks Wines

Barley Stacks Wines is an award-winning vineyard established on the traditional barley belt of the Yorke Peninsula. Open daily from 10am.

13.6km south of Maitland on the Maitland to Minlaton Road, Maitland Ph: (08) 8834 1258 EAT www.barleystackswines.com LOCAL accommodation Ardrossan Caravan Park Coobowie Caravan Park

Relax and enjoy your holiday on the beautiful Ask about our Fishermans Getaway Yorke Peninsula. Centrally located within two • Under new management • Beautifully appointed minutes’ walk from the town centre, beach and spa villas on the beachfront • Fully self-contained jetty, golf course and a two minute drive from the units • Powered/unpowered sites • Modern clean boat ramp. Cabins, ensuite caravan sites, caravan amenities and camp kitchen • School Retreat and camping sites, fish cleaning and crab cooking mobility-friendly • Pet-friendly • Close to boat facilities, free barbecues and more. launch facilities • Dump point • Walking distance to hotel, general store and café • Check our web page for specials 1 Park Terrace, Ardrossan Phone: (08) 8837 3262 Email: [email protected] Ph: (08) 8852 8132 www.ardrossancaravanpark.com.au www.coobowiecaravanpark.com

yorkepeninsula.com.au 35 accommodation Country Getaways Edithburgh Caravan Park Holiday Rentals

Getaways to Yorke Peninsula Lush lawned foreshore sites and • A one-stop shop for accommodation all superb slab sites, Executive Spa over Yorke Peninsula • A huge variety – budget Foreshore Cabins, Deluxe Cabins, adventure playground and basketball to deluxe • Value for money experiences area, free barbecues and camp kitchen. • Professional cleans after every tenancy Brand new adventure park, state-of-the- • Local knowledge • Easy booking process art amenities, adjacent beach and boat • Online bookings • User-friendly website launching short walk to shops.

The Foreshore, Edithburgh Ph: (08) 8852 6056 Fax: (08) 8852 6553 Ph: (08) 8832 2623 Email: [email protected] www.countrygetaways.com.au www.edithburghcaravanpark.com.au

Marion Bay Caravan Park

Marion Bay Caravan Park has been designed as a modern day bush camp, while providing central facilities and services. Relax with the natural and informal setting offering direct access to beach fishing in the bay, Penguin Point and a 10 minute walk to the jetty, tavern and fishing charters. • Ensuite cabins • Rainwater • Linen hire • Powered sites • Van storage • Laundry • Pets allowed at powered sites • Playground, jumping pillow and basketball area • Credit cards welcome • Jetty, boat ramp and fishing charters nearby • Facilities for disabled • Fish cleaning facilities • Camp kitchen • Ice and gas refills 300 kilometres from Adelaide (three hours). Nearby attractions include Penguin Point and Innes National Park.

17 Willyama Drive, Marion Bay Ph: (08) 8854 4094 Fax: (08) 8854 4194 Email: [email protected]

36 ACCOMMODATION Port Broughton Port Hughes Tourist Park Caravan Park

Situated at the top of the beautiful Yorke Offering multiple camping and cabin options Peninsula in a spectacular bay setting and great facilities, including free Wi-Fi, BBQs, jumping pillow, mini golf, children’s playground, • Powered sites and a variety of cabin options go-karts and new kayaks and stand-up paddle • Camp kitchen • Fish cleaning and crab cooking boards. Backing onto the beach and adjacent to facilities • Close to jetty and boat ramp • Solar the pier and SA’s second largest boat ramp, we heated swimming and wading pool • Jumping are the perfect place for your next fishing getaway pillow • Tennis court and beach volleyball court or family holiday. • Pedal kart hire • Wi-Fi • Dump point South Terrace, Port Hughes Barker Street, Port Broughton Ph: (08) 8825 2106 Ph: (08) 8635 2188 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.porthughestouristpark.com.au

Port Vincent Foreshore Stansbury Caravan Park Caravan Park

With absolute beach frontage, the park’s unique Perfectly situated on picturesque Oyster Bay, position gives access on one side to a beach our park offers direct access for beach and rock that is excellent for swimming and on the other groyne fishing and is very close to the town jetty side for fishing, crabbing and birdlife. Situated and boat ramp. in the centre of town, it is an easy walk to all Come fishing and crabbing in a relaxing facilities and is an ideal centrally located base environment in a friendly and welcoming park from which to explore Yorke Peninsula. and town.

Anzac Parade, Stansbury 12 Marine Parade, Port Vincent Ph: (08) 8852 4171 Ph: (08) 8853 7073 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.stansburycaravanpark.com

yorkepeninsula.com.au 37 accommodation

Every Fisherman’s Dream Barunga by the Sea offers beautiful and affordable housing in the seaside town of Port Broughton. For many keen anglers contemplating retirement, being able to live independently in a safe community surrounded by friends and great fishing spots is a well-versed aspiration. Barunga by the Sea currently has two bedroom and three bedroom units available from $260,000. To make an appointment for an inspection, please contact Jodie or Stacey on 08 8635 0528.

DON’T LET THIS ONE GET AWAY!

Dale Rd, Port Broughton SA | 08 8635 0528 | barungavillage.com.au

38 ACCOMMODATION AND VISITOR INFORMATION Point Turton Caravan Park

Overlooking the jetty and beautiful Hardwicke Bay Explore both sides of the ‘foot’s’ scenic coastline from this central base. The caravan park is located in a disused quarry adjacent to the jetty and boat ramp. Enjoy the panoramic sea views from all the cabins that follow the coastline around. • Absolute seafront two bedroom deluxe, deluxe family and deluxe spa cabins • Standard ensuite cabins • Lawned powered sites • Clean amenities • Camp kitchen • Disabled facilities • Internet hotspot • Dump point

Bayview Road, Point Turton Ph: (08) 8854 5222 Email: [email protected] www.pointturtoncp.com.au VISITOR INFORMATION

Accredited Visitor Visitor Information Port Broughton Information Centres Outlets McKay Street, Port Broughton Phone: 0498 085 012 Copper Coast Visitor Ardrossan Information Centre Corner First Street & Stansbury 50 Mines Road, Kadina Fourth Street, Ardrossan Weaver Street, Stansbury Phone: 1800 654 991 (freecall) Phone: (08) 8837 4195 Phone: (08) 8852 4577 or (08) 8821 2333 Maitland Wallaroo Yorke Peninsula Visitor Robert Street, Maitland Jetty Road, Wallaroo Information Centre Phone: (08) 8832 2174 Phone: (08) 8823 3015 29 Main Street, Minlaton Moonta Yorketown Phone: 1800 202 445 (freecall) Blanche Terrace, Moonta Stansbury Road, Yorketown or (08) 8853 2600 Phone: (08) 8825 1891 Phone: (08) 8852 1820

Share your Yorke Peninsula experiences Scan this Quick Response code with your smart phone to go to www.yorkepeninsula.com.au Data fees may apply.

yorkepeninsula.com.au 39 40 YORKE PENINSULA FISHING GUIDE 2016 WALLAROO North Beach Tourist Park

Relax & enjoy! ◆ Beachfront units with AUSTAR ◆ Kiosk/Free Wi-Fi ◆ Beachfront sites ◆ New amenities/laundry ◆ Playground/basketball ◆ Disabled facilities ◆ Hire equipment kayaks, go-karts ◆ Camp kitchen/rec room ◆ 2 bedroom & 1x 3 bedroom cabins ◆ Dump point ◆ Jumping pillow ◆ New ensuite sites

Pamir Court WALLAROO Ph: (08) 8823 2531 [email protected] www.wallaroonorthbeachtouristpark.com.au

yorkepeninsula.com.au 41 INDEX Fishing charters Pine Point...... 15 Captain Cook Fishing Charters...... 0429 621 557 32 Point Turton...... 25 Reef Encounters Fishing Charters...... 0407 609 988 IFC Port Broughton...... 30 Wildfishin Charters ...... 0428 253 603 32 Port Clinton...... 13 Port Gawler...... 10 Fishing supplies and boat hire Port Giles...... 18 Port Vincent Outdoors...... 0423 232 766 32 Port Hughes...... 27 Yorke Peninsula Marine...... (08) 8821 2604 32 Port Julia...... 15 Port Parham...... 11 General information Port Rickaby...... 25 Copper Coast Boat Ramps...... 1800 654 991 33 Port Victoria...... 26 Cruising Yacht Club of SA Port Vincent...... 16 Port Vincent Marina...... 0414 611 110 34 Port Wakefield...... 12 Fishwatch Hotline SA...... 1800 065 522 34 Price...... 13 Hillocks Drive (Butler’s Beach)...... (08) 8854 4002 34 Stansbury...... 17 Innes National Park...... (08) 8854 3200 21 Stenhouse Bay...... 22 South Australian Angler ...... (08) 8341 8938 33 Sturt Bay...... 20 Yorke Peninsula Visitor Centre...... 1800 202 445 OBC Wallaroo...... 29 Food and wine Wedge Island...... 21 Wool Bay...... Barley Stacks Wines...... (08) 8834 1258 35 18 Accommodation Ardrossan Caravan Park...... (08) 8837 3262 35 Barunga by the Sea...... (08) 8635 0528 38 Coobowie Caravan Park...... (08) 8852 8132 35 Country Getaways Holiday Rentals...... (08) 8832 2623 36 Edithburgh Caravan Park...... (08) 8852 6056 36 Marion Bay Caravan Park...... (08) 8854 4094 36 Point Turton Caravan Park...... (08) 8854 5222 39 Port Broughton Caravan Park...... (08) 8635 2188 37 Port Hughes Tourist Park...... (08) 8825 2106 37 ...... Port Vincent Foreshore Caravan Park ...... (08) 8853 7073 37 Acknowledgements Stansbury Caravan Park...... (08) 8852 4171 37 Editorial: Shane Mensforth Wallaroo North Beach Tourist Park...... (08) 8823 2531 41 Photography courtesty of: © South Australian Wallaroo Shores...... (08) 8486 0012 IBC Tourism Commission, Reef Encounters Fishing Yorketown Caravan Park...... 0499 219 605 OBC Charters, Shane Mensforth. Fishing locations Disclaimer Ardrossan...... 14 All information contained in this publication is correct at the time of printing 10 May 2016. All advertisements Balgowan...... 26 are accepted on the basis that their contents are true Black Point...... 15 and accurate and that they are in no way misleading or Browns Beach...... 22 otherwise contrary to the Competition and Consumer Corny Point...... 24 Act 2010, or the Fair Trade Act (SA) 1987. Yorke Peninsula Daly Head, The Dusthole...... 23 Tourism and HWR Media & Communications do not Edithburgh...... 19 accept any liability to any person claiming they have Foul Bay...... 20 been misled or deceived by any material published herin. Gleesons Landing...... 24 Copyright Yorke Peninsula Tourism 2016. Marion Bay...... 20 Middle Beach...... 11 Moonta Bay...... 28

42 YORKE PENINSULA FISHING GUIDE 2016 Drop your anchor at Wallaroo Shores

beachfront land release register your interest today

EXPLORE THE DEVELOPMENT 08 8486 0012 www.wallarooshores.com.au [email protected]