Cast off with the High Tide crew for the May 16th edition, where we navigate the latest fishing reports, political waves, and expert local advice from across Australia. This week, host Grant catches up with Alan Blake from Blake’s Marine as he prepares for a "product development" expedition through 1770 and Cairns, eventually landing in Karumba for five days of serious fishing. Meanwhile, Kiran Reekie reports on the recent heavy rains in Maroochydore, which have spurred a massive run of mud crabs and active fishing for local students catching bream and flathead before school.

Our deep-dive segment features Justin Duggan from Sydney Fly Fishing Tours, reporting live from Broken Bay. Justin shares a masterclass on targeting Hairtail during the day, explaining how to spot their unique vertical signatures on a sounder and why aggressive lure retrieves often outperform bait. He also touches on the current "shoulder season" transition in Sydney Harbour and the arrival of massive 70cm Bonito.

In a spirited discussion, Steve Bowler from Tenterfield Firearms joins the show to tackle the "recalculation of priorities" in the recent federal budget. From the controversial tagging of bull sharks to the preservation of local fishing access on the Northern Beaches, Steve offers a candid look at the intersection of lifestyle and politics. Finally, Isaac from One Up Fishing brings us the latest from Botany Bay and Port Hacking, reporting schools of Dolphin Fish (Mahi-Mahi) still lingering in 22.8°C waters and providing tips on how to fish the "underrated" groins for squid and flathead.

Whether you're looking for the best spots for Kingies and Jewfish or need a tech tip on why you must update your electronic charts to avoid costly insurance excesses, this episode has everything you need to gear up for the weekend.

High Tide podcast from May 9, 2026, hosted by Grant Boyden and Captain Kieran Reekie.

Weather and Maritime Safety

• The Westerly Trap: Reekie warns that westerly winds create deceptive flat water near the shore, but dangerous waves rise quickly 3–4 miles out.
• Weekend Forecast: Saturday expects 10–15 knot winds; Sunday expects southerlies reaching 15–20 knots during the day.
• Safety Debate: Following a recent rescue tragedy, the hosts urge stricter safety gear checks for large yachts and cruisers.

Regional Fishing Reports

• Sydney/Northern Beaches: The Hawkesbury has hairtail and jewfish. The beaches are excellent for whiting and tailor.
• Dams and Rivers: Split Rock and Glenbawn are 94% full. Cod are active on spinnerbaits at Keepit Dam.
• South Coast: Narooma lake features flathead and jewfish. Marlin are reported at the shelf.
• Coffs Harbour: Marlin and Yellowfin are active out wide, with Mangrove Jack in the rivers.

Boating and Technical Tips

• Vessel Choice: Paul Burt suggests 8m+ boats, like Edencraft or Stabicraft, for families of six.
• Console Preference: Burt prefers center consoles for better solo weight displacement compared to side consoles.
• Mahi-Mahi Tactics: Skip live bait at FADs; use pilchards to catch the school before they are spooked by other boats.

Politics and Advocacy

• Park Lockouts: Mark Banasiak opposes Green-led closures at Long Reef, citing a lack of scientific data.
• Illegal Trade: Ulladulla fishers report concerns of illegal abalone trade operating under the guise of cultural fishing.

Upcoming Events

• Boat Shows: Sanctuary Cove (May 21–24) and Sydney (late July).
• Tournaments: King of the Pin at Jacob’s Well (May 30–31).

A massive high-pressure system continues to deliver glorious weather across the coast. In this week's episode, Grant is joined by Alan Blake of Blake’s Marine to discuss the upcoming Hawkesbury standalone race day and essential outboard maintenance. Plus, a comprehensive fishing rundown from across New South Wales and beyond.

🎣 Regional Fishing Updates

• Northern Beaches & Hawkesbury: Great reports of Jewfish, Bonito, and Salmon. Flathead and Flounder are active around Scotland Island and Patonga.
• South Coast: Water remains warm at 21–23°C. Marlin and Yellowfin are out wide, while headlands are hosting plenty of Bonito.
• Inland & Dams: Yellowbelly and Cod are being caught on spinnerbaits and soft plastics in Chaffey, Split Rock, and Pindari.
• Coffs Harbour: Strong runs of Mackerel, Marlin, and Yellowfin closer to shore.

🛠️ Alan’s Tech Tip: The "Key" to Avoiding Grief

• Know Your Number: Most outboards have approximately 200 different key variations. Check the two- or three-digit code under the plastic cover of your key and record it in your phone or logbook.
• Spare Parts: Always carry a spare cut-out lanyard. Ensure everyone on board knows how to start and operate the motor in case the skipper is incapacitated.

🚤 Industry Highlights & Deals

• Yamaha: Save up to $1,350 on mid-range outboards (30–90 hp).
• Suzuki: Cheap finance available at a 3.85% comparison rate with a 10% deposit.
• Pro-Lure Australia: Tips on using the Hybrid Shrimp (58 mm and 92 mm) and the "Crank Crab" for lethal results on light tackle.