LAKE BURRENDONG, NSW
Burrendong Dam near Dubbo, in central western NSW, provides an excellent “mixed” fishery for native species (primarily golden perch or yellowbelly and Murray cod), which are found right alongside two less desirable but nonetheless fun-to-catch introduced invaders: redfin perch and common carp. In this episode, Starlo successfully targets yellowbelly, redfin and carp using various lures and also on his fly fishing tackle.
RODS
Light spinning (threadline) tackle based on 2 to 2.5 metre Shimano spin rods is a perfect choice when working artificial lures for golden perch and redfin. On the carp, Starlo opted for a 9-foot, 6-weight, trout-style fly outfit based on a brilliant G. Loomis NRX rod.
REELS
Featherweight 1000-size Shimano spinning reels were matched to the light spin rods, while Starlo used an old Shimano fly reel for his carp hunting.
LINE
Fine, strong braided main lines work well in this role, and Starlo prefers PowerPro in 3, 5 and 8 pound breaking strains for the task, with an 8 or 10 pound leader consisting of several metres of Ocea fluorocarbon. He used a weight-forward (WF6F) floating fly line with a 3 to 4 metre tapered leader attached on his fly gear.
TERMINAL TACKLE
Various metal vibes or blades are extremely effective on yellowbelly and redfin perch in this scenario, while weighted nymph flies are deadly on carp. Starlo swear by his Mako Eyewear sunglasses and especially loves them when “sight-fishing” for those pesky carp!