Fishing In Hobart: A Bream Masterclass With Plinio And Deathy

If you’re an angler with a passion for bream fishing, particularly in the Derwent River system of Hobart, you’re in for a treat. I recently listened to an interview between Andrew Death and seasoned Hobart bream fisher Plinio Taurian, who shared some unconventional and highly effective techniques for catching bream in this unique ecosystem.

Understanding the Derwent River System

The Derwent River is a diverse and dynamic fishery with various habitats ranging from shallow flats to deep, rocky structures. Over the years, changes in water quality and aquatic vegetation have influenced bream populations, but recent observations indicate a resurgence in fish size and numbers.

Key Techniques for Bream Fishing in Hobart

1. Grubbing with Medium Diving Crankbaits

Plinio emphasizes a technique called “grubbing,” where you use medium diving crankbaits like the Ecogear SX 48 or CK 40 to mimic the behavior of crabs and mussels. This involves:

• Casting: Throw your lure into shallow water, aiming for sandy or rocky areas where bream feed.
• Retrieve: Wind the lure down to the bottom and then grind it into the sand, creating a disturbance that mimics a crab burying itself. This triggers aggressive bites from bream.

2. Fishing Around Structures

For targeting bream around structures such as docks and bridges, Plinio recommends:

• Lure Choice: Small vibes like the Bassday Kangoku, and blades like the Ecogear ZX 40.
• Presentation: Use a lift-and-drop technique to work the lure around pilings and other underwater structures, attracting bream from their hiding spots.
• Boat Positioning: Position your boat strategically to facilitate extraction of hooked fish from heavy cover.

Seasonal Strategies

Spring to Early Summer

• Post-Spawn Feeding: Bream are hungry and aggressive after spawning, making it an ideal time to target them.
• Preferred Locations: Focus on the Bridgewater Bridge and metro docks, where bream congregate to feed on mussels and other available prey.

Winter

• Cold Water Challenges: The Derwent’s temperature can drop significantly, slowing bream activity. During these times, Plinio shifts focus to sea trout, leaving bream alone until the water warms up again.

Reading the Water and Conditions

Tide and Temperature

• Tides: Both incoming and outgoing tides offer opportunities, but Plinio finds that bream are more predictable during lower tides, especially around structures.
• Temperature: Warmer nights lead to more active bream in the mornings. Look for temperatures around 12-14 degrees Celsius for the best activity.

Spotting Bream

• Visual Cues: Look for bream digs—disturbed patches of sand where bream have been feeding. These can guide you to productive fishing spots.

Essential Gear for Hobart Bream Fishing

• Rod and Reel: A medium-light rod paired with a quality spinning reel, spooled with 6-8 lb line.
• Lures: Ecogear SX 48, CK 40, Bassday Kangoku vibes, and Ecogear ZX 40 blades.
• Leader: Use fluorocarbon leaders, adjusting thickness based on water clarity and fishing conditions.

Conclusion

Fishing in Hobart, particularly in the Derwent River, requires a mix of strategic lure selection, precise presentations, and a keen understanding of seasonal and environmental changes. By incorporating these expert techniques from Plinio Taurian, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the unique challenges of bream fishing in this renowned Tasmanian waterway.

Key Takeaways

• Optimize Lure Presentation: Mimic natural prey behaviors to trigger bites.
• Focus on Structure and Tides: Use strategic positioning and timing for the best results.
• Adapt to Seasonal Changes: Adjust your techniques based on the time of year and water conditions.