DAM BASICS
Recently we spent a week fishing a Queensland barra lake. Word was out that the fish were biting and plenty of anglers were trying their luck. It was clear from conversations at the ramp and our accommodation that quite a few were struggling to get a strike. Fishless sessions were common, and you could sense the frustration as anglers looked for answers.
A lack of basic knowledge coupled with inappropriate tackle creates a handicap in a fishery where you often need everything going your way. Asking for help is the obvious solution, but insights and tips can be hard to identify amongst all the chatter.
This article is aimed at the inexperienced angler and is in two parts. First a quick run-down on the gear required to tackle lake fish. Then some scenarios and information that will help focus effort on productive areas at the right time.
RODS AND REELS
Both cast (baitcaster) and spin (threadline) outfits are suitable for lake barra. One or two 6’6” -7’ baitcaster outfits in the 14-20lb line weight range or a 4-power rating will cover lure casting. Likewise, a couple of 7’ spin rods in 10-20lb line class are useful for both casting and trolling. Having a few rods rigged with different lures allows the angler to experiment without the need to re rig.
If bigger barra are in the trees a powerful 20-25lb outfit will assist to turn a fish. A heavier longer outfit is ideal for throwing larger soft plastic tails (7-9”). Finally, a swim bait outfit is useful where this method is employed.
Baitcasters need to hold at least 100-150m of 20-30lb braid and deliver a solid drag.
