It appears to me that the fish enjoy the holiday season just as much as our visitors. 

Whiting, flathead and snapper have arrived in time for the festive season and have taken up residence along the beaches, throughout Port Stephens and over the reef system.

A combination of warm currents and ideal sea conditions has resulted in an excellent opportunity for our many holidaymakers to catch a fish. 

All the beaches from Stockton north to Fingal are loaded up with cracker whiting up to 40cm cruising just behind the first line of breakers. Worms are by far the best bait – live or pickled, doesn’t matter. 

Dusky flathead are evenly spread from Shoal Bay right around the shoreline including Nelson Bay, Corlette and Soldiers Point. Further inside the port the hottest spots are Lemon Tree, Tanilba, Karuah River and Tilligerry Creek. On the north side of the port Corrie Island and Jimmies Beach are famous for thumping duskies.

Outside the heads snapper are out of control from Fishermans Bay to Seal Rocks. Target snapper on a changing tide or sunrise. For all the local secrets check out my latest book – “Stinkpots 50 Fishing Secrets” available at Bait and Tackle outlets.

Happing Fishing!

Fishing writer, author and radio presenter John “Stinker” Clarke can be heard weekly, throughout NSW, on popular ABC Regional Radio fishing program “The Big Fish”. Check him out on www.stinker.com.au or send an email to editor@manningcommunitynews.com with your information and questions.