They reported the marlin bite continued with some great fish landed directly out the front off the northern Illawarra in depths anywhere from 70 fathoms out to 90 fathoms.

Even though the water is still dirty after the rains of late, there still seems to be plenty of fish about with both blacks and stripes caught on the troll and on live baits.

There were some good snapper caught land based in those recent big seas and it was Bass Point and Hill 60 ledges that proved to be the better lee spots away from the swell and white water, producing reds, some solid bream and a few mixed species.

Local estuaries including Lake Illawarra will now hit their straps after the deluge and subsequent flush with plenty of flathead and bream in places such as St Georges Basin, the Shoalhaven and of course the lake.

Try to source some fresh bait, worms, prawns or even pipis as this will be what is on their menu.

There was a good run of blackfish in the bays and harbours with the big seas with the pick of the spots probably at Bellambi Harbour and Kiama.

Some nice bronzed fish were being caught on both weed and artificial flies.

No one was crazy enough to try and fish the beaches as the seaweed was everywhere and the side currents horrendous.

***************************

A little out of area but DPI/Fisheries are holding a free community fishing event at Tenterfield Dam on Saturday, February 22, from 9am to 2pm.

Registrations are not required, so just front up with juniors or the whole family to try your hand at the great sport of fishing.

Tuition is on hand to learn the latest tips and tricks and basically have a great family day out.

There will be fishing workshops, casting comps, fly casting lessons and the Fisheries Education Advisory Trailer will have some great giveaways.

Contact 0419 662 508 or email roger.cupples@dpi.nsw.gov.au for more info.