THIS is the time of year when luderick move northwards along the coastline swimming into the river systems along the way before taking up residence along breakwalls, around bridges and jetties.
Huge schools of fish graze on the weed that grows on the underwater structures.
One of the best luderick hot spots for recreational fishers is the Nelson Bay Breakwall which provides the ideal habitat both inside and outside the wall.
Since the 1980s, when the breakwall was built, luderick, bream and mulloway have been regular visitors along with travelling kingfish, tuna and snapper.
The inhospitable weather that we have experienced recently has not dampened the enthusiasm of the “luderick gang” who gather along the breakwall every day, rain hail or shine, in their quest to catch their bag limit.
A much underrated table fish the luderick can match it with the best if prepared fresh for the kitchen, crumbed and sizzled golden brown in shallow oil.
The mystery remains – where are the squid?
I have waited patiently for a couple of years for the return of the calamari which could easily be caught in every quiet bay from Birubi to Broughton Island.
It appears that the squid drought is not confined to Port Stephens as I am hearing the same stories right along the coast.
I don’t know what chased them away but I do wish that they would return.
Nothing better than crumbed squid rings with a squeeze of lemon.
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
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