Blue Water Fly Fishing
Fly fishing is one of the biggest challenges left on the bluewater and is certainly one of the fastest growing facets of saltwater fishing.
Black marlin and sailfish are both fly favourites and all other species targeted with conventional tackle can be caught on the fly. The world record opportunities are excellent on the Great Barrier Reef during the winter to spring months (May to November) using 8 to 16 weight tackle.
Ross has been involved in a number of world record captures on fly both as crewman and captain having also caught 4 black marlin on fly as an angler.
3 World Records – Bluewater Fly
1995 - World Record – 4kg Tippett – 17.5 kg Black Marlin - (Angler – Dr Glen Scott, “Sea Baby IV”)
1998 - World Record – 4 Black Marlin in 1 Day on Fly
- Winner of the International Black Marlin Fly Fishing Tournament (Anglers – J Erskine & BMcLeod, “Sea Baby IV”
- 3 Marlin on Fly Caught in One Day (4 Times – “Sea Baby IV”)
2005 - 200lb Black Marlin captured for regular anglers Mr Ishikawa from Japan (Sea Baby IV)
2006 - 150lb Black Marlin again captured for Mr Ishikawa (Sea Baby IV)
Ross and his crew target marlin and sailfish using the bait and switch technique, giving the angler the best opportunity to make a cast to a fish that is eager to bite.
12 to 14 weight rods and quality large capacity reels are favoured, although lighter or heavier tackle may be used depending on the size of the fish, and the anglers skill. Dual hook Flashy Profile flies, large multi hackled poppers, and tube flies are all effective.
Other bluewater species that can provide great fly fishing include Spanish (King) Mackerel, Cobia, Yellowfin Tuna, Longtail (Bluefin) Tuna and Mackerel Tuna (False Albacore).
These pelagics can at times be approached as they herd baitfish to the surface and attack, offering exciting visual fly fishing action. Locating schools of predators electronically then burleying (chumming) with live or cut bait produces consistent results.
Flies that imitate the baitfish or chum are cast off intermediate or fast sinking lines into the bait trail attracting the attention of switched on predators. 9 to 12 weight rods with large capacity reels are standard, however some anglers like the challenge of ultra light rods (2 to 6 weight), quality reels with plenty of backing are essential, definitely no place for Trout reels.
Charter Options
(based on exclusive, private boat charter)
FULL DAY : The Top Shot is an ideal game boat for day trips out of Cairns throughout the year and is in survey for up to 8 passengers plus crew. Fishing grounds through our winter months are approximately 15 – 25 miles from Cairns and in our summer months between 15 & 35 miles. (45 to 90 mins travelling each way).
Departure 7.30 am from Cairns Marlin Marina, Returning 5.00 pm to 5.30 pm.
LIVEABOARD : The Top Shot is perfectly set up for accommodating in comfort maximum 4-5 anglers and 2 crew on an extended liveaboard charter light to medium tackle gamefishing. 2-5 day liveaboard charters are a great way to experience the variety of light/medium tackle and fly fishing opportunities on offer close to Cairns.
All meals, beverages, and linens are provided on a liveaboard charter. Anglers need only bring soft overnight bags with personal belongings.
Departure 7.30 am from Cairns Marlin Marina, Returning 5.00 pm to 5.30 pm on final fishing day.
Career Highlights
- 2007 : Caught Black Marlin (1102lbs), with 2 others estimated 1000lbs +
- 2006 : Most Black Marlin Caught in Fleet (103) / Several est 1000lbs Plus
- 2005 : 2nd Most Black Marlin Caught in Fleet (98) / Several est 1000lbs Plus
- 2004 : Most Black Marlin Caught in Fleet (105) / Several est 1000lbs Plus
- 2002 : Only Grander Weighed for the Season (1177lbs)
- 2001 : Largest Black Marlin in World caught on Lure (1257lbs)
- 2000 : Winner Innisfail Light Tackle Tournament
- 1999 : Champion Angler: Lizard Island Tournament
Email Ross
Print PageMany thanks to Craig Smith for his selection of great shots throughout the site
