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| This information taken from
"River Murray Fishing and Boating Guide" SA Fishing Tackle Agencies 210a Grange Road, Flinders Park. |
MURRAY
RIVER FISHING |
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Redfin Redfin, an introduced species of fish whose habitat was originally northern European waters, is thriving in the Murray to a degree where it threatens many indigenous fish. Most Australian fresh water seems to suit them admirably to a degree where their growth rate is almost double that which would be attained by the same fish in the Northern Hemisphere. The Redfin feeds at all depths and can, consequently, be taken just about anywhere. They show a marked preference for the backwaters if and portion of the river is flowing swiftly, but if it is not, they are likely to take up residence all over the main stream. They have been known to attain a weight of a little over 5 lb. and are fast becoming respected by fresh water anglers for their fighting ability when captured on light lines. Redfin should be handled carefully because they have sharp spines in their fins and their gill covers are serrated enough for them to cause a severs wound, though nowhere near the degree to be expected from a Callop. Redfin can be taken from the bank of a river or from a drifting or moored boat on either natural bait or artificials. If artificials are used the speed of retrieve should not exceed 2 to 3 Knots. The line most suited to Redfin angling is around the 8 to 12 lb. B.S., but unfortunately because Cod and Callop are often taken at the same time, the most widely used is somewhere between 20 and 25 lb. B.S. The most suitable reel is either a bait caster, threadline or side cast. The side cast is particularly suitable if a float is required. Any of these reels if used on a rod of 7 6 to 9 will form a well matched outfit if bait is used, but one of 5 6 to 7 6 would be more suitable for the use of artificials. The treble hooks on artificials should not be larger than No. 1. Sinker size should be restricted as much as possible and, for preference, none at all. Best bait would depend on the locality and the season. The whole year round Worms form a major part of the fishes diet and as a result, theses are the best bait, but during the early part of the year Shrimp and Yabby are highly successful baits and around Christmas, fresh water Mussel, Grubs and small Frogs are ideal. The most suitable lures, if artificials are required, would be the medium and small Floppy and Plucky lures late in the year. Earlier in the year Wobblers, Spinerfly, Celta and Twin Pal are ideal. The edible qualities of Redfin are extremely high and this becomes
more apparent if the flesh of the fish is smoked. As a smoked fish, it is doubtful if
Redfin has an equal. |
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