Prior to reaching the no fishing zone just downstream of the Dumbleton weir the rock strewn foreshore provides abundant habitat for predatory species such as barramundi and mangrove jack.
Many that fish this area target these two species with lures although live baiting is an option. Mullet or prawn suspended about a metre under a float is a sure fire way to attract some attention from these two popular targets.
Barra around this size are common at Dumbleton
although much larger specimens are taken.
Your leader needs to be reasonably heavy due to the abrasive nature of the rocks and 40 – 60lb is recommended. Threadline or baitcasting tackle are both effective although most lure fishos will use baitcasters loaded with 20 -30lb line. There are a variety of snaps on the market that allows connection of lures to the mainline. This allows easy changes of different colours and depths of lures when fishing a particular location.
The other alternative is to connect your lure using a knot that allows the lure to work without its action being hindered by the leader. This is called among other things, a loop knot. There are a variety of books on the market that explain how to tie this knot or just ask the boys at Fishing World to show you how.
Using snaps to change lures makes it easy to provide
a range of presentations.
Access into this area is via steep, sometimes slippery tracks. Pack light and wear appropriate footwear. Be prepared to move along the rocks to get amongst the best spots.
Tip > When lure fishing for barra, the action of your lure is important to induce an attack. Most times, barramundi will hit the lure while it is rising. This is why a stop, start retrieve is so effective.
Get There > Follow Sugar Shed Road and turn off onto Maraju Yakapari Rd. There are numerous tracks that lead to the river. Not all are suitable for vehicles.
The Gear
Type of Fishing > Lure Casting, Soft Plastics, Bait.
Bait types > Live Mullet or prawn.
Peak Periods > Early morning, late afternoon between sunset and dark.
Best Tides > A few hours either side of low tide. Tide is several hours later than Mackay Harbour.
Tackle > Sturdy baitcasting outfit. Minimum 40lb leader for barra. Good selection of lures. Threadline outfit for bait fishing.
