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The location: |
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We are situated in the hinterland at Bobin (approx. 3&1/2 hours from Sydney) on the pristine waters of Dingo Creek which is just 20 minutes out of Wingham. Wingham is a short 10 minute drive north west of the river city, Taree. Dingo Creek is a tributary of the mighty Manning River in the heart of the Manning Valley's "prime wild bass country" offering quality bass fishing.
Indeed the Manning and Macleay river systems are considered by many as being the best and most productive Native Australian Bass rivers in NSW. This region is renowned for it's spectacular habitat, backing on to the famed rugged "Tiger Country" and the pristine rivers of the New England National Parks which wind through untamed wilderness, thunder along rugged gorges, over magnificent waterfalls and then meander down past our back door.
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The fishing: |
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I would like to introduce you to my own special part of the world so that you can enjoy one of anglings greatest pleasures.....BASS FISHING.
I have spent years and years fishing throughout Australia from some of the most remote untouched tropical waters of the North through to the most hidden of streams in the densest parts of Tasmania (and New Zealand) but for me nothing has ever dampened that heart pounding thrill of a surface strike from a Wild Water Bass.
Often referred to as the "Barramundi of the south", Bass are one of Australia's truly outstanding freshwater sports fish. They will often hit like a big 'Barra' and then steam back toward their home, amongst the snags, like a determined 'Jack'.
Bass fishing is the fisherman's native answer to trout. Responding to a range of angling methods; Bass are renowned lure munchers and will easily outfight trout of a similar size; they are also naturally adapted to Australian conditions. It is of little wonder that this species is becoming such a sort after sporting fish amongst anglers.
Bass are quite simply, just great fun to catch, they often hit hard and fight hard. They are very strong and fast through the water. These superb native sporting fish can be as cunning as a fox and inch for inch, pound for pound, have a fighting ability that can, at times, be beyond comprehension - such is the nature of bass fishing. Add to this the tranquility of quietly drifting a canoe at sunset through beautiful countryside, an abundance of wildlife, and some good company awaiting for that inevitable "big hit". It is not surprising that any keen angler's first Wild Bass will be an experience to be remembered for a lifetime that will have you coming back for more!
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Diversity: |
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Although Bass are our primary target species, we have a wide range of fishing options and species all within easy striking distance.
It is easy to understand why this region is often considered by many as "having it all" when it comes to fishing diversity and options. All within weekend reach of Sydney. One day you can be trout fishing a New England stream and the next tweaking Soft Plastics for Flathead and Bream - we can tailor trips to your needs.
Other species:
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Herring
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Freshwater mullet
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Bream and Flathead in lower reaches
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Trout in the upper tributaries
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Dingo Creek itself also supports a resident population of the now rare Wild Silver Perch and even the odd Yellowbelly.
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Accommodation: |
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Whilst you are here bass fishing, we can provide a very private and cosy fully restored original federation house (Dingo Creek Cottage) in a relaxed, leisurely location with stunning grounds and fishing at your back door.
In addition you will experience all the pleasures of the outdoors and campfire billy tea with all the comforts of home at night.
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Getting there: |
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Approximately 3 1/2 hours drive from Sydney we are on the Bulga Rd heading out of Wingham towards Ellenborough Falls.
For interstate and international guests there are regional flights to Taree and then a 40 minute transfer to our door.
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Bass Season |
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The peak fishing season for Bass is from September to April/May (inclusive.)
Some very large, quality fish can be caught throughout the winter months, however, the quantities of fish caught is usually less.
Please note that atypically booking demand with Scott is high hence all bookings are on a "first in, best dressed" basis. We are currently taking bookings for the upcoming '09/'10 season.
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What to bring: |
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A hat, polaroid sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellant, a warm top and rain jacket (just in case.)
Footwear - something that you do not mind getting wet and/or dirty.
Personally I like to use the hard soled neoprene 'wet suit style' boots. They are easy to clean, offer good protection and keep your feet warm if need be.
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Tackle & Lures |
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Tackle is very much a personal choice and there are many outfits 'out there' that will more than do the job. Personally I use a Loomis 6'3" Bronzeback SMR 750 SSP and/or DSR 820 S rod with a Diawa 2500 or 2000 Capricorn series A reel backed with 8 l/b (3 - 4 kg) fluro green braid and a 15 - 20 l/b leader (most important.)
Typically an outfit or two that can flick a range of lures from unweighted soft plastics through to 8/10 gram surface lures will do the job..
Lures: There is suchan endless range of lures on the market it becomes mind boggling and most will all catch some fish some times. We recommend that you stick with any of your tried and proven favorites, otherwise you can refer to our general guide:
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Good all round colors. chartreuse green and yellow, gold, orange/red and black, natural minnow patterns,red and white (one of my favorites.)
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Generally surface to medium depth lures 1 - 2 meters.However always carry a couple of deep divers for when the fish are lyinglow I.e. in the middle of the day and the deeper pools especially when the water is warm.
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Spinnerbaits are always a good main stay. I.e. 3/cozy Strikers in red and black or green and orange.
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Some surface lures are a must. A good startbeing a black Jitterbug.
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Minnow patterns in standard and fat bodied styles. There is an endless choice in this department but some proven
performers for us have been. Outback Lures 'Australis Minnow in 6 and 8cm' and/or 'Menindee Mauler 5cm'. River and Sea 6cm minnow patterns.
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Soft Plastics. Here the world really is 'your oyster' so to speak. However we tend to enjoy consistent success on D.O.A.
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Shad and Grub patterns especially in green or chartreuse.
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All tackle and equipment is supplied on a 'cost if lost' basis or you are welcome to bring your own.
If you wish to purchase additional tackle and get updated on the latest local advice for your trip; we recommend that
you visit the friendly and professional experts at Manning Valley Tackle on your way through.
8 Manning St, Taree. PH 02) 6552 4161. Or visit http://www.fishtaree.com.au/ |
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Recommended Viewing |
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To wet the appetite and give you a preview of what to expect when fishing Mid North coast Bass see:
'Wild River Bass'
dlmedia@bigpond.net.au
(or) Drop Lizard Media, PO Box 427, Forster, NSW. 2428.
FOR A FULL INFORMATION & COSTINGS KIT CALL SCOTT ON
02 6550 5136 OR
CLICK HERE TO EMAIL
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