The town has been busy with the influx of tourists as the winter temperatures drive them north. We’ve had a few windy days, but also some wonderful weather with calm conditions that allows the anglers to get out amongst the fish. One customer had some fantastic luck this week while fishing in the marina. He caught everything from queenfish, trevally, jacks and bream. However, the prize catch for him was a 57cm coral trout! The hardy head bait schools have been thick inside the marina which has obviously brought in more predatory species. The late afternoons have been very entertaining down there as the bait schools have been herded up and smashed by these bigger fish.

Sadly the wind has picked up a little and the temperature has dropped, but it is winter now, so it is to be expected. The winter temps have brought out the early morning whiting enthusiasts and I’ve been informed that there are a few about. Last week I wrote that squid had been scarce, but since then, they must have heard me and have been caught in all areas around the cape including the weed beds north and south of the marina, off Bundegi and off Tantabiddi. Even inside the marina the squid have been prevalent. Keith Menner brought up the two sensational bluebone this week at that familiar fishing ground known as ’spot X’ Wow, what a feed he and his family must have had that night…and the rest of the week!

We had a customer in the shop this week asking about how to make use of fish heads and frames. Fish heads from species such as this bluebone make great stock and bases for dishes such as seafood chowder and Laksa. Frames cooked up on foil on the bbq with ginger, sweet soy sauce and lemon juice can taste great too. It depends on how good the filleting process is on your fish, as to how much meat you will get from a frame. I know a few filters that are very quick at the job, but leave enough meat on the frame to get another two or three meals!

Please remember to use all of the fish, as we are privileged to have such great fresh seafood at our back door: besides, it tastes wonderful and is less wasteful. The Exmouth Game Fishing Club is going to hold a fishing clinic and comp during July and August for general fishing. Keep reading this report each week for further details, and if you would like to be involved email info@egfc.com.au Suggestions have been made for a squid comp, learning to tie basic rigs for fishing, reef fishing, night fishing off the beach and many others. There is plenty more to come out of the new committee this year, with some great ideas to involve more of the community, so we will keep you informed with any progress.