Australian Bass Fishing Tips

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A native Australian fish, the bass, has been the object of fishing trips for a long time. Also referred to as a freshwater perch, the Australian bass has an average length of 9 inches and a weight of just over 2 pounds.

Prized for the fight it gives anglers as much as for its tasty flesh, this fish is a predator and will devour everything from bugs to worms to lizards and occasionally, frogs. This fish is not easy to catch, even though it's not a finicky eater. Consider your tactics and you may increase your chances of a catch.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Travel to southeastern Australia to reach the primary range of the Australian bass. Fish coastal streams and rivers from central Queensland, south past New South Wales to the lakes of eastern Victoria.

Step 2

Fish in specific areas according to the time of the year, as Australian bass are migratory. Cast in freshwater rivers and streams from September through April. Move to brackish coastal estuaries between May and August, where this fish annually migrates to spawn.

Step 3

Choose light tackle that can withstand the power of an Australian bass, which is noted for its strength. Use a stiff drag setting to slow down a hooked bass. The fish will immediately sprint to the nearest cover, which often means a snapped or snagged line.

Step 4

Use a No. 2 long shank hook with live baits such as worms, shrimp or yabbies, which is an Australian crayfish. This ensures easy retrieval and fewer chances of the bass injuring itself by swallowing the hook.

Step 5

Use lures as a worthy alternative to live bait. Choose a cicada fly if using a fly rod, or try a plug or surface lure for conventional tackle.

Step 6

Look for places near water that have white ant populations during the summer months. These insects regularly take to the air in small swarms. Cast out using a fly rod where these ants naturally land on the water as the bass feed on them. Use white ants as live bait or with a fly that mimics the insect.

Step 7

Search for Australian bass in their common habitats. Look near weeded areas, submerged islands of rock, in the vicinity of water lilies and near trees that have fallen into waterways. Avoid sandy areas offering no cover.

Step 8

Paddle via canoe. These are ideal for a stealthy approach, even in shallow waters.

Tips & Warnings

Heavily fished during the Australian summer, consider catch and release fishing as your contribution to the longevity of the Australian bass.

Resources

Native Fish: Australian Bass

Article Written By Mike Biscoe

Mike Biscoe has been writing since 2009. Focusing on travel, sports and entertainment topics, he has credits in various online publications including LIVESTRONG.COM and Trails. He often writes articles covering uncommon travel destinations from firsthand experience. Biscoe holds a Certificate of Completion in acting from the Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts.

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