To maximize your chances of catching bream and flathead in Queensland's estuaries, focusing on structure, experimenting with colors, and targeting shaded areas can significantly enhance your fishing experience. As the prawn season kicks off, utilizing ZMan PrawnZ and PrawnZ Elite soft plastics is a proven strategy, as highlighted by Justin Willmer and Declan Williams in a recent episode of Tackle Tactics TV.
The duo started their fishing adventure with some early morning success, including a small cod. Justin noted, 'Cod love a prawn,' which underscores the effectiveness of prawn imitations for various species. This time of year, when prawns are actively moving in the rivers, presents an excellent opportunity for anglers to catch a mixed bag.
When fishing with ZMan PrawnZ, Justin and Declan selected a 1/8 ounce jig head paired with the 2.5-inch PrawnZ in various colors. Justin opted for a UV color due to the low light conditions, while Declan preferred a natural jelly prawn hue. 'Always good if there's a couple of you in the boat just to throw some different presentations around,' Justin emphasized, highlighting the importance of variety in lure presentation.
Targeting structure in creeks and rivers, particularly around beacon poles that create eddies, proved effective. These areas not only harbor bait but also serve as ambush points for predatory fish. Justin shared their retrieval technique: 'Casting back up with the flow allows that to get down around the base of that beacon.' A slow, twitching retrieve mimics a prawn's movement, which is crucial for enticing bites.
Their fishing session was productive, landing several bream and flathead. Justin noted that fishing the shaded side of a boat hull often yields better results, especially in the early morning light. 'I spend most of my life on the shady side catching a few brimos,' he remarked, demonstrating the effectiveness of this approach.
The design of the ZMan PrawnZ soft plastic is a key factor in its success. With a realistic prawn profile, a tail kick for added attraction, and horizontal legs that create a natural glide during retrieval, it appeals to a wide range of species. Justin mentioned that this presentation makes it a versatile choice for anglers.
For jig head selection, Justin advised using a light wire hook for targeting bream and other species requiring precise hook penetration. He recommended the Headlocks finesse jig head in size 10 for lighter applications, while a heavier size one is better for more robust species like snapper.
As the day went on, they experienced a series of double hookups, showcasing their effective techniques. Declan pointed out the importance of structure, saying, 'Any boat holes better than others? I love a yacht,' as these often provide additional underwater structure that attracts fish.
Switching to the PrawnZ Elite later in the day proved equally effective. Justin commented on the lure's natural fall, stressing that a slow presentation often yields the best results. 'They love that shady edge,' he reiterated, underscoring the significance of fishing in the right conditions.
For anglers eager to take advantage of the current prawn run, Justin's insights offer a solid foundation for success. By concentrating on structure, trying different colors and retrieves, and targeting the shaded sides of moored boats, anglers can significantly improve their odds of landing bream and flathead this season.
For a detailed visual guide on these techniques, check out the full video on Tackle Tactics TV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUT5QYqvmek.
