As the sea continues to settle the local headlands and rocky outcrops along our coastline between, Birubi and Tomaree, become a focus for those who chase a tenacious scrapper we call the black drummer. 

Correctly named the Rock Blackfish this “no holds barred” fish, with a mean attitude, swims in close through the white, washing machine water in search of a feed of sea cabbage, cunjevoi or any unfortunate crab that has lost his grip.

To catch this fish, you must develop an aggressive “let’s rumble” approach.

Arm yourself with a reasonably long rod, over 3 metres, with a solid backbone, nothing less that 12kg line and a 2/0 – 3/0 hook.  

Selection of the correct sinker is crucial. Too tight and your bait stays on the surface. Too heavy and all you hook is Australia.  

A weight that will sink your bait mid water is ideal.

Toss your bait on the edge of the white water and when the fish pulls hard, you know what to do.

- Stinker