As the prawn season unfolds in Queensland's estuaries, anglers are seizing the opportunity to target bream and flathead using ZMan PrawnZ and PrawnZ Elite soft plastics. In a recent episode of Tackle Tactics TV, Justin Willmer and Declan Williams shared their insights on this effective fishing technique, focusing on the best practices for lure selection, retrieve patterns, and fishing locations.
The duo kicked off their outing with some early morning bites, including a small cod, which Justin noted, 'Cod love a prawn.' This sentiment sets the tone for the day, highlighting the versatility of prawn imitations in attracting various species. With the prawns actively moving in the rivers, the timing is perfect for anglers looking to catch a mixed bag.
Fishing with ZMan PrawnZ, Justin and Declan opted for a 1/8 ounce jig head paired with the 2.5-inch PrawnZ in different colors. Justin chose a UV option due to the darker conditions, while Declan went for a natural jelly prawn color. 'Always good if there's a couple of you in the boat just to throw some different presentations around,' Justin remarked, emphasizing the importance of variety in lure presentation.
The pair targeted structure found in the creeks and rivers, particularly focusing on beacon poles that create eddies. These areas not only hold bait but also serve as ambush points for predatory fish. 'Casting back up with the flow allows that to get down around the base of that beacon,' Justin explained, detailing their retrieval technique. A slow, twitching retrieve mimics the movement of a prawn, which is crucial for enticing bites.
Throughout the morning, they experienced a productive session, landing several bream and flathead. Justin pointed out that fishing the shaded side of a boat hull often yields better results, particularly in the early morning light. 'I spend most of my life on the shady side catching a few brimos,' he noted, illustrating the effectiveness of this strategy.
The ZMan PrawnZ soft plastic's design plays a significant role in its success. It features a realistic prawn profile, a tail kick for added attraction, and horizontal legs that create a natural glide during retrieval. Justin mentioned that this presentation appeals to a variety of species, making it a versatile choice for anglers.
When it comes to jig head selection, Justin advised using a light wire hook for targeting bream and other species that require precise hook penetration. He recommended the Headlocks finesse jig head in a size 10 for lighter applications, while a heavier size one is suitable for more robust species like snapper.
The fishing session continued with a series of double hookups, showcasing the effectiveness of their techniques. Declan highlighted the importance of structure, stating, 'Any boat holes better than others? I love a yacht,' as these often provide additional underwater structure that attracts fish.
As the day progressed, they switched to the PrawnZ Elite, which proved equally effective. Justin remarked on the natural fall of the lure, emphasizing that a slow presentation often yields the best results. 'They love that shady edge,' he reiterated, underscoring the importance of fishing in the right conditions.
For anglers looking to capitalize on the current prawn run, Justin's insights provide a solid foundation for success. By focusing on structure, experimenting with different colors and retrieves, and targeting the shaded sides of moored boats, anglers can enhance their chances 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.
