Young Port Stephens champion Xavier Smith knows where to look for mulloway.
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The trick is to identify these hot spots and target them in the ideal fishing conditions.
So, where are they?
Inside the Port, mulloway gather around major structures and deep holes where they can sit perfectly still.
Skin divers who have witnessed the behaviour of these big fish will tell you that they spend long periods not moving at all, just waiting for the chance to attack unsuspecting prey.
The top spots include Nelson Bay and the Anchorage breakwall, the ship wreck off Salamander, the deep water around Middle Island and the two Karuah bridges.
Mulloway can be caught elsewhere, but these spots offer the best chance.
Best baits include squid and live yellowtail or slimy mackerel.
Peak time is dusk into darkness on a tide change and the best time of the year is right now!
I also found that a rising moon to full drives the big fish crackers.
Not only fish.
How did you go with my Quick Quiz last week?
There are six Marine Parks in NSW and the biggest is Port Stephens – Great Lakes MP.
You’re in it!