#Westernport Bay fishing

[westernportmarina12]

Top Westernport Fishing Charters | Westernport Marina

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Sunday/Wednesday, 9-12 August

Sunday

We were in the van almost all day.  Neither of us felt all that well when we first got up. Heather’s vertigo was bothering her, probably from the rocking and rolling in the car yesterday; and I was quite woozy too.  I suspect I had accidentally taken a double dose of my blood pressure tablets.  I am cutting them in halves at present and taking them on alternate days, but maybe I didn’t cut one of them and I felt quite dizzy and unstable until late morning.

At least, feeling like this gave me the perfect opportunity to tick off one of the things I said I wanted to do during lockdown. I lay on the bed and read for 2 solid hours.  I have been reading much more than usual, mainly late at night, but it is many years since I sat and read for pleasure during the day.  It was great and I will try to do it again soon.

I wrote a bit for my blog and posted it with some photos in the afternoon – first time (ever?) that this of any of my other blogs have been right up to date.

We then went for a slightly longer than normal walk, just in local area across the creek and then drove to Drouin for another fish and chips dinner.  Each time we have gone there, we have ordered a little less than last time, but even so, we had delicious fish sandwiches for lunch next day and chips with our home-made pie for dinner at night.

Monday

We spent a somewhat exhausting day at Phillip Island – but it was really great. We set off for the south coast confident of our interpretation of the Stage 3 rules for non-Melbourne residents.  As it turned out, we perhaps needed to know our rights because quite close to The Gurdies, a Police roadblock was set up and every vehicle was stopped for questioning.  We had to say where we were coming from, where we were going, what we intended to do there and our reason for it all.  Our answers prompted the cop who was questioning us to remind us that we were more than 5 km from home and didn’t we know the rules?  I said that we had been ‘trapped’ in Warragul since before the lockdown and that the limit didn’t apply to us.  He immediately apologised and said he had just come from a roadblock in the city and had forgotten that we were in a Stage 3 area rather than Stage 4.  He was very nice and wished us a happy day as we drove away.

We were quite pleased that it had happened because it confirmed our understanding of the latest rules.  We didn’t have masks on when we were driving, but we put them on before I wound down the window.  A good job too because I heard that some people were fined for winding down their windows to speak to the cops before putting their masks on.  On the other hand, when we were in the Cape Wollomai Surf Club carpark later in the day, a cop car came through and spoke to numerous people who were watching the surf without masks.  As far as we could see, nobody was fined, but they were all required to put masks on.

It is amazing how many people are NOT wearing masks.  They all wear them in the shops, but anywhere else, at least a quarter of them don’t, maybe even more.  Almost all of them are young people who think they are bulletproof and don’t care who they might be infecting – basically the vulnerable (old farts like us).  So many of them don’t wear masks, and there is rarely any social distancing within groups of 4 or 5.

We did a long (10 km) walk at Cape Wollomai. It was great and quite varied.  It was hard work walking on the beach, but that was only for the first and last kilometre.  Up on the cliffs, there were wide areas of low scrub, virtually all low shiny-leafed plants, often smothered in little white snails, but also frequently covered in divine-smelling honeysuckle.  It pervaded quite large areas and we first noticed it while we were still hundreds of metres away on the beach.  There were a couple of other wonderfully aromatic plants there too and we just loved the ‘perfumed garden’.  In the wooded areas (all low stringy trees, rather than the giants we have seen so much in the past few weeks) with quite a few birds. There were several lookouts and regular seats along the way for the weary and at one, we saw a Peregrine Falcon.  It was quite close, riding a thermal up the side of the cliff about 30 metres away and it circled us a few times before drifting away.  We saw it several times in the distance, very high, but I will post some pics I took when it was nearer to us.  There were lots of Ravens, quite a few Pipits and six Yellow-tailed Black-cockatoos that kept us company for a while - but were hard to photograph through the branches, particularly because it was all in low light.

An important birding milestone for this trip was a Singing Honeyeater we saw early in our walk.  That marked 100 unique species we had seen since leaving home.  The Peregrine Falcon and a few Gannets late in the walk increased our trip tally to the current 102.

Walking back the last kilometre on the beach, we saw thousands (krillions?) of tiny dead creatures along the highest line that the waves had reached.  We imagined that they were krill (as they had been in similar circumstances in the Kurils a few years ago), but a close examination showed that they were tiny transparent cuttlefish: tens of thousands of them, all about half a centimetre long.

We were pretty zonked after the walk, especially from trudging along the loose sand on the beach, so we ate our mid-afternoon lunch in the car and then made for home.  I wanted to check out another wetland not far from Cape Wollomai so we detoured there and Heather sat in the car while I reconnoitred the area.  I only walked about 2 km, but went as far as the very small wetland.  It was no great shakes but there were other walks there too, including one across the island to a couple of Westernport Bay lookouts that may be worth visiting if we decide to revisit the area in the next few weeks.  Then it was home via Wonthaggi and a somewhat circuitous, but very scenic, route to the west of the roads we have used on our other excursions.

Tuesday

We stayed in and around the van all day.  We did some hand washing (clothes – our hands are almost worn away from constant washing) and cooking.  I reorganised the back of the car and we did some tidying and cleaning in the van. We sorted and edited photos, updated our bird lists, read, and wrote more for my blog and I persuaded my wonderful hairdresser to cut my hair.  We did that outside the van to the amusement of numerous passersby, with me wrapped up in plastic sheeting because we left the hairdressing sheet at home.  I was in desperate need of a cut and feel so much lighter now the shearer has completed her work.

Wednesday

Another rest day in the van.  It was supposed to be raining overnight and all day, but it is now early afternoon and the rain is yet to arrive.  We are still a bit worse for wear after our Cape Wollomai walk so decided to stay in and recuperate for another day.  Heather has cooked and we have both made a few phone calls and generally pottered around. I finished another book last night so I think I might spend an hour of two reading on the bed again this arvo. It would be great to be on the road again, but we are certainly making the most of our forced residency (do we need to change our electoral roll registration?) and quite enjoying it.

[fishingmadau]

Fishing Advice tips make you expert level angler

You are in luck! This blog post is all about fishing. It covers the basics of what you need to know for a successful day at the fishing spot, so it's perfect if you're new to this sport or just want to brush up on your skills. You'll also find some tips and tricks that will help you catch more fish than ever before - who doesn't love an easy win? The best part is that even if you don't have much experience, fishing advice strategies work for everyone. With any luck, your next fishing trip will be a success! Fishing is a great way to spend time outdoors and with friends. We will be going over some of the best places for catching fish in Melbourne as well as where you can find bait and tackle shops. We hope that you enjoy! If you're not sure if it's going to be good or bad, just keeps VIC fishing report ! A cool fishing video Melborne that is sure to get you hooked! In this video, a group of guys come across some big fish while they are out on the water. They reel in one and it isn't what they expected at all. Share if you love animals too!

Find the perfect location in Melbourne for fishing.

What are you looking for when it comes to fishing location Melbourne ? The best place to fish in Melbourne is the Westernport Bay. It's a great location for all types of fishing and it has some fantastic spots for beginners and experts alike. The bay has many different species of marine life including snapper, flathead, whiting, garfish, blue ling and leatherjackets. In addition to being a top spot for fishing enthusiasts, it also offers excellent surfing conditions with its white sand beaches that are perfect for kite boarding or windsurfing. Kids fishing are a great way to spend the day, and it's even better when you catch something! Fishing can be a sport or a leisure activity.

[westernportmarina]

Charter Boat Hire - Westernport Marina

Westernport Marina has some of the best and most experienced Charter Boats and Captains based here, these guys do it all. There’s no better way to explore the Westernport bay and Bass Strait and all of it’s surrounds than in the comfort and privacy of your very own fishing charter adventure.

Visit: https://westernportmarina.com.au/charter-boat-hire/

[yihuj-posts-blog]

Phillip Island - The Jewel of Westernport Bay

Phillip Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia, attracting in excess of three and a half million visitors every year. Phillip Island has no dearth of fun activities for the whole family and is an excellent destination for all those seeking to create a holiday experience that they will never forget. The activities on the island are aplenty with every area offering something unique:

o Cowes: As the main township on Phillip Island, Cowes is abuzz with things to see and do. The main avenue is graced with galleries, great shopping and eateries, leading down to the picturesque parkland on the foreshore. Situated on the north of the island, the Cowes foreshore offers panoramic views across Westernport Bay, gentle walks, safe swimming beaches, ideal for families, as well as the jetty, perfect for the early evening promenade, fishing or to access the cruises to Seal Rocks, or the ferries to French Island and Stony Point on the Mornington Peninsula.

o San Remo: At the eastern entrance to the island, San Remo is the gateway to Phillip Island. A harbour town, it is the prime centre for the local fishing industry, and you can join ocean fishing charters from the jetty. Nestled in the harbour, you will find cafes, restaurants and shopping as well as sporting facilities to enjoy a hit of tennis, squash, or a roll on the bowling green. Its position on the water provides opportunities to fish, feed the pelicans, or enjoy a coastal walk. Nearby sheltered beaches allow for safe swimming, and you can access a surf beach from town.

o Rhyll: On the north-east tip of Phillip Island, Rhyll is home to the beautiful wetlands and is also a focal point for life and sport on the water. The boat ramp, jetties, yacht and angling clubs and the sailing school allow individuals of all ages and levels of experience to access fishing and boating on the inlet. Trout fishing is also possible at the Rhyll Fishing Park. If you are more inclined to remain dry, a winery, restaurants and cafes, and beautiful nature walks can be easily enjoyed in Rhyll. Rhyll is also the gateway to attractions like the Koala Conservation Centre and Oswin Roberts' Reserve.

o Newhaven: On the south side of Phillip Island, the fishing village of Newhaven is an important hub of the island. Just west of here you can access the road to Churchill Island, and nearby you will find the Phillip Island Airport and Phillip Island Information Centre. It is also the closest town to the stunning Cape Woolamai, a dramatic coastal environment with breath-taking views over wild surf and wildlife galore. Like Rhyll, Newhaven is a mecca for life on the water. Its jetty, boat ramp, the yacht club and marina allow access to the deep blue for water sport enthusiasts of all persuasions. For anyone interested in remaining land-based, there are restaurants and cafes to enjoy.

o Churchill Island: The historic heart of the region, tiny Churchill Island is the site of the first European settlement in Victoria. Follow the sign-posted directions from Newhaven and unrestricted access is via a bridge, open from 10am to 4.30pm daily. Visitors to Churchill Island can leave fully versed in the local history after a tour of the Visitors' Centre, or can explore the original homestead, relive history with demonstrations of traditional farming techniques by local rangers, or just wander through the gardens and orchards remedial massage.

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[boatgoldcoast-blog]

Secret Men's Business

Like many marine journalists, I often receive invitations to test boats. However, I recently received an invitation that was a little out of the ordinary – to attend a “Secret Men’s Business”. The invitation was somewhat “secretive” and exciting, and as I delved into the history of “Secret Men’s Business” (SMB), I found that this is the third in a series, and it’s not, as the name suggests “a blokes only get together”, but a very smart way of getting journalists of all genders together to launch a new marine product.

The location was down in Victoria, at the beautiful Phillip Island on Westernport Bay, an interesting choice as generally most boating and indeed testing in Victoria tends to be carried out on the larger Port Phillip Bay, Lake Eildon or expansive Gippsland Lakes.

The purpose of this year’s SMB was to have a two-day exposure to the new Suncoast 2017 range of boats from Chaparral. The Chaparral brand is now well known on our shores, and comes with a reputation as being very well designed and constructed. Of course, I was aware of the American company, Chaparral, and its Australian partners. However, I was surprised to learn of the size of the company in the USA, and indeed the number of boats they sell annually, but more of that later.

Firstly, the new Suncoast boats are bow riders with outboard engines, rather than inboard stern drives. This configuration is not only on trend, but happens to be my favourite style of boat, so I was interested right from the start.

There are three (3) models in the range, and a couple of different configurations within those models, being Sport and Ski/Fish. The Ski/Fish version includes live bait tank, trolling motor, rod storage and holders, interchangeable seating and fold out casting decks. It is possible to order most of these fishing components individually or in package form on all models.

Suncoast are the first of the Chaparral stable to use outboard engines in over 25 years. The choice of engines for our test session was predominantly Honda, with one Mercury in the mix. Engine choice, however, can be left to the purchaser and best discussed with your local Chaparral dealer.

The first thing you notice is the striking design – modern, but still with traditional boat lines that appeal to us romantics at heart and then the massive swim platform, which was brilliant and unusual for an outboard boat. The seating arrangement throughout the range was great. Chaparral Australia made sure that each boat had a minimum of four to five adults (sometimes more) on board at all times, to ensure the testing was real. But we were all very comfortable, with plenty of room to move about, particularly when working the boat while fishing or setting up for waterskiing.

The bow was open and inviting, with the ability to seat four adults comfortably without affecting the balance of the boat. It was clear that these are very versatile, safe and family-orientated boats, and moving from the main cockpit area to the bow while underway was safe and easy, reassuring for Mum when fidgety little people have a habit of running amok without notice.

It is interesting to note that the 210 model ran both 150 HP to 200 HP. So, depending on your performance requirements, the ability to run less horsepower also means lower up front purchase cost, lower fuel usage, cheaper insurance, less trailer weight and lower servicing costs. This just adds to the versatility of the range and opens the door for people whose budgets do not stretch so far.

On the 230 Suncoast, which was running the Honda 250 HP, we tested the performance with some skiers behind the boat. The Honda pulled the skiers up with ease, and true to Chaparral doctrine, had the added advantage of being just as home in salt, as in fresh, water.

In all four boats, we experienced as many different water conditions as possible, making Westernport Bay an excellent choice, with the popular holiday playground turning on some beautiful warm weather for the first day of summer. To start with, we had flat conditions for skiing, and as the wind came up in the afternoon it became a little choppier. This was good, as I started to understand the research behind the hull designs.

We went out to the heads of Westernport Bay off San Remo, where we had a 1.5 to 2-metre swell. From here, we did some power running in the choppier conditions just to see how well the boat and hull performed, given that it will be driven by many different skippers with different levels of expertise, the boats came up trumps – stable, comfortable and fully controllable – so much so that even a novice skipper, with care, could handle the conditions.

All boats in the Suncoast range are trailable, hitting the scales at around 3200 kg for the big 250, and have surprising amount of interior space. For instance, in the 210, we had seven adults aboard at one stage, and with the Honda 200 HP outboard, it had no problems powering us through the water. The 150 HP struggled to get going when fully loaded but still performed well once up, and would be ideal for the Ski/Fish version of the boat with three or four on board. I know the dealer was still playing with propeller choices, so I have no doubt the 150 HP would still suit most buyers.

I wish we had the space here to delve more into the technology side of this range. In recent years, technology has dramatically improved all aspects of boat design and function. The Extended V-Plane Running Service of the hull really works. But I hear you say, “A nice fancy name, but what does it do?” ‘Extended V-Plane’ means you are getting full use of your boat’s length. This has probably less to do with faster top speeds, but more to do with the ability to get onto plane quicker and stay on plane at slower speeds, a point which I think is very important. How many times, as you power up your boat, or you are driving at slow speeds, do you find it difficult to see over the bow and you are running blind? This fixes the problem to a large degree and has the added bonus of saving fuel. The patented hull design meant that the boat was on the plane at 12 knots with minimal bow rise. So in my book, it works!

I know this may sound trite, but Chaparral designers really do listen to the feedback from their customers, and it shows. Everywhere you look, small but important features demonstrate the care and attention that goes into the design. Stainless steel gas struts to hold up hatch lids – not mild steel, friction hinges, self lubricating pop up cleats, nitrogen filled dash gauges, diamond tread non-skid surfaces, cup holders everywhere and even the interior cushions are designed to spring back to shape immediately after sitting or standing, preventing stretch and providing a longer life. All these are small things individually, but are all designed to make general use, particularly in salt water, easier and collectively provide longevity to what is a major investment in your family’s hard won leisure time. Smart Mr Chaparral – I like it!

An innovative feature in the bow was a standard telescopic boarding ladder, making it easy to hop off the boat when run up on the beach. At the stern, a truly inspiring feature was the integrated walk around swim platform offering the best access in the OB engine area of any design I have seen. It is an industry leading design and something I have longed for. But there is more. All models offer transom seating for those lazy days at anchor, dangling feet in the water – so smart and practicable for getting on and off the boat at the dock or preparing to ski, fish or just for relaxing. This to me is what boating is all about.

The other major feature, which was for me the piece de’ resistance, was that all three models feature an enclosed toilet area, or head compartment, providing total privacy. I was truly impressed with this, as it has been a bone of contention in my family for many years. Needless to say, my wife, who was one of the ‘Secret Women’ at the SMB, was impressed as well.

After the first day of on-water activity, we had a presentation night from the folks at Chaparral Australia. Now, if I had mentioned Chaparral boats ten years ago, you probably would have looked at me with confusion. A few privateers were bringing boats into Australia, but they were mainly the bigger boats. However, if you fast track to 2016, the name rings with the sound of innovation, quality and performance, and a company that is growing in leaps and bounds. When you look at the boating industry in Australia now, we see, under the Chaparral brand name, a plethora of boats for all aspects of boating, cruising and fishing, all with different configurations, with model names like, Vortex, H20, and Suncoast under the Chaparral banner and the dedicated fishing range, Robalo.

Here is something that did surprise me. Chaparral is not the biggest marine company in the world, BUT it does sell more boats in the world than, er… the other well-known company you may be thinking of, and they have been building boats since 1964!

The “secret” in the SMB was actually the fabulous accommodation and headquarters, which was a huge 60-square convention home between Cowes & Rhyll, on Phillip Island. Extremely conducive for a bit of fun, and of course work, and gave organisers, Scott and Dani O’Hare from Chaparral Australia, the opportunity to talk to journalists on a one-on-one basis. Also present, were suppliers that Chaparral have partnered with, all quality brands, such as Easytow Trailers, Honda outboard engines and Garmin electronics. Each gave a 15-minute presentation of their products, and how they gel with the Suncoast range – again giving journalists an insight to the boat and equipment on board.

These days, boats are becoming more like cars. We really do like our comfort and gadgets, and are tending to buy more quality product rather than cheaper entry level. I believe the boating industry is following that trend. In saying that, when I was looking at the dashboard and ancillary equipment in this range are more akin to an upmarket car than a boat.

I understand that no boat is perfect, and to this end, when I test a boat, I go in with a certain number of points, and I deduct points when I see things that could be improved or I felt there were bad design features or quality issues. Although this story is not a test of individual boats, I did walk away from each boat struggling to see how many points I might actually deduct. Maybe a bit more knick-knack storage around the helm area for phones and sunscreen, but that was about all I could pick after two days of boating!

I love the romance of boating. I like fishing, cruising, entertaining and overnighting in a tent on the beach. When I looked closely at each of the models in the Suncoast range, I could see myself owning one as they all fitted my needs beautifully. I was seriously impressed by the hull, the construction, and seating plans. But what impressed me most were the thought and a non-compromising approach that go into each boat.

Made in the USA, but very, very much at home here in Australia, the Suncoast range deserves your attention and is well worth a look.

For more information, visit the Chaparral website www.chaparralboats.com, call the Queensland Dealer Australian Marine Centre on (07) 3808 7333 or Chaparral Australia on (03) 9397-6977.

  By Peter Rhodes

  (Feb-Apr2017)

Secret Men’s Business was originally published on Boat Gold Coast

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Embark on an unforgettable fishing adventure with Westernport Marina fishing charters. Our expert guides will lead you to the best spots in Westernport Bay, teeming with a variety of prized catches. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, our charters cater to all skill levels, ensuring an exhilarating experience on the water. Book your Westernport fishing charter today and reel in memories that last a lifetime!

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https://westernportmarina.com.au/

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Experience unforgettable fishing adventures with Westernport Marina fishing charters. Our expert guides will take you to the best spots in Westernport Bay for a thrilling day of fishing. Book your charter now!

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https://westernportmarina.com.au/fishing-charters/

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Explore the Best Westernport Fishing Charters - Book with Westernport Marina Today!

Join Westernport fishing charters for an unforgettable fishing adventure in the rich waters of Westernport Bay. Our expert fishing charters offer tailored experiences for anglers of all levels, providing top-quality boats, equipment, and local knowledge to ensure a successful day on the water. Book your Westernport fishing charter today and enjoy the thrill of reeling in the catch of a lifetime

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https://westernportmarina.com.au/fishing-charters/

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Dive into Sustainability Events at Western Port Marina

Introduction:

Looking for ways to make a positive impact on the environment while enjoying your time at Western Port?

Look no further! Western Port Marina is proud to host a series of sustainability events that not only promote eco-friendly practices but also enhance your experience in this beautiful coastal region.

Why Sustainability Matters:

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a crucial aspect of preserving our natural resources for future generations.

At Western Port Marina, we understand the importance of sustainable practices, especially in a marine environment like Western Port.

By adopting sustainable measures, we aim to protect the delicate ecosystem while ensuring that everyone can continue to enjoy activities like fishing Western Port for years to come.

Exploring Sustainable Fishing Practices:

One of the highlights of our sustainability events is the focus on sustainable fishing practices.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, learning about sustainable fishing techniques can help minimize your impact on marine life and contribute to the conservation of fish stocks.

From catch-and-release programs to proper gear disposal, there are plenty of ways to fish responsibly in Western Port.

Engaging Community Initiatives:

At Western Port Marina, we believe in the power of community engagement.

That’s why our sustainability events aren’t just about educating individuals; they’re also about bringing the community together to take action.

Whether it’s participating in beach cleanups, attending informative workshops, or supporting local conservation efforts, there are numerous opportunities for residents and visitors alike to get involved and make a difference.

Educational Workshops and Seminars:

Knowledge is key when it comes to sustainability, which is why we host educational workshops and seminars as part of our events.

These sessions cover a wide range of topics, from marine conservation to eco-friendly boating practices.

By equipping participants with the information they need to make informed decisions, we empower them to become stewards of the environment.

Celebrating Eco-Friendly Innovation:

Innovation plays a crucial role in advancing sustainability efforts, and Western Port Marina is proud to showcase eco-friendly technologies and initiatives.

Whether it’s solar-powered facilities, waste management systems, or sustainable infrastructure, we’re constantly exploring new ways to reduce our environmental footprint and lead by example in the industry.

Conclusion:

As stewards of Western Port’s natural beauty, Western Port Marina is committed to promoting sustainability through our events and initiatives.

By coming together as a community and embracing eco-friendly practices, we can ensure that Western Port remains a thriving ecosystem for generations to come.

Join us in our journey towards a greener, more sustainable future at Western Port Marina!

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https://westernportmarina.com.au/fishing-charters/

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Unveiling the Ultimate Guide to Western Port Bay Fishing: Your Gateway to Angling Adventure

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable fishing expedition in the pristine waters of Western Port Bay? Look no further! At Westernport Marina, we're your trusted partner in unlocking the secrets of this angler's paradise.

Welcome to Western Port Bay, where every cast holds the promise of excitement and every catch tells a story. Nestled in the heart of Victoria, Australia, Western Port Bay boasts an abundance of marine life and breathtaking scenery, making it a haven for fishing enthusiasts of all levels.

Discover Western Port Bay:

Stretching over 680 square kilometers, Western Port Bay is renowned for its diverse aquatic ecosystem, teeming with a variety of fish species including snapper, flathead, whiting, and squid. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice fisherman, there's something for everyone in these bountiful waters.

Top Fishing Spots:

Navigate the waters of Western Port Bay and uncover its hidden gems with our insider's guide to the top fishing spots. From the shallow banks of Warneet to the deep channels of Hastings, each location offers a unique fishing experience guaranteed to thrill and delight.

Expert Tips and Techniques:

Master the art of angling with expert tips and techniques from seasoned fishermen. Learn the best bait and tackle to use for different fish species, understand tide and weather patterns, and discover insider secrets to increase your catch success rate.

Charter Fishing Adventures:

Embark on the ultimate fishing adventure with Westernport Marina's charter services. Our experienced captains will guide you to the hottest fishing spots aboard our fully-equipped vessels, ensuring an unforgettable day on the water for you and your fellow anglers.

Plan Your Trip:

Ready to cast off into Western Port Bay's angling paradise? Plan your fishing trip with ease using our comprehensive resources. From accommodation options to local amenities and regulations, we've got you covered every step of the way.

Conclusion:

Experience the thrill of Western Port Bay fishing with Westernport Marina as your trusted guide. Whether you're seeking a relaxing day on the water or an adrenaline-fueled angling adventure, we're here to make your fishing dreams a reality. Cast off into a world of excitement and discovery - the waters of Western Port Bay await!