Once again, innovation was the key to the Shimano Dam Raider being awarded the best new rod at the Australian Fishing Tackle Show.

Inspired by master rod builder, Ian Miller, this is a 2.1 metre, two-piece, trigger-grip baitcasting rod, with cork grips and an exposed blank rear grip that facilitates more feel though the full length of the rod.

Perfect for light to medium salt and freshwater application, it’s a rod that spans many styles of fishing, including barra where long casts and aggressive lure working are involved.

With the benefit of inside information, I know as fact that the best new lure was a close decision.

Finally, it was awarded to Halco for its new mini-Poltergeist 50 XDD “crazy-deep”.

The larger Poltergeist is a must-have in any barra angler’s tackle box, and this new, super-deep-diving mini-version is an impressive lure that is still big enough to entice a finicky barra.

Speaking of tackle boxes, it was no surprise that the new Plano Flipsider 3378 won its category.

This is a hybrid bag/box system that is incredibly space-efficient and super-tough for the traveling angler.

Its base is made from hard rubber and it features innovative side-storage compartments and tough external fabric pockets.

The best new fishing line was another close one.

It was awarded to Platypus for its new strike-sensitive Super Braid, now available at a gossamer-thin 1 kg breaking strain.

That’s a tad light for working the barra snags, but the heavier breaking strains feature ample abrasion resistance.

Finally, the AFTA Best Boating Accessory and Electronics 2005 went to the Lowrance iFinder GO, a waterproof, compact, 16-channel handheld GPS.

It features a 5cm hi-resolution display, 200v x 140h pixel resolution and 32mb of built-in memory.

The judges were also impressed that it retails for only $199.

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Make sure you don’t miss the Marine Safety Boat Motor and Leisure Show at Marrara Stadium this weekend.

Organised by the Boating Industry Association (BIA) NT, each year this great show gets bigger and bigger, and many boat designs have been inspired by the NT fishing scene.

For those of you who want to learn how to get the most out of your electronic fish-finding equipment – as well as other useful fishing accessories – don’t miss Rick Huckstepp’s informative fishing talks.

There will also be both various camping exhibits, as well as health and lifestyle exhibits.

Live music and festive dancing should get everyone in the mood.

This show is not only a wonderful opportunity to check out all the latest in boats, fishing tackle, motor vehicles and leisure products such as pools and outdoor furniture, it’s your best bet to make a bargain purchase.

The announcement by Fisheries Minister Kon Vatskalis that a new wreck has been added to the Lee Point artificial reef complex is news to be welcomed.

Artificial reefs have a success story in the Top End; we now have them in Darwin Harbour, off East Point, way out at Fenton Patches and of course at Lee Point.

The Lee Point reef has been a real winner with owners of small trailer boats, both because it is relatively close to shore and protected and also because it consistently produces great fishing.

The new addition is the ‘Kay-Lee’, a decommissioned commercial fishing vessel which was donated by former commercial fisherman and NT maritime pioneer John Conway.

A good old rusty bucket, it is 16 metres long and weighs about 15
tonnes.
Minister Vatskalis said: “This is great for recreational fishing in the Territory.

“This new reef will attract fish such as mackerel, golden snapper, trevally, moonfish and jewfish
and will be big enough to accommodate more than three boats at one time.
“Fishing is the lure of the Territory and this Government is proud to support
Territory anglers!” the Minister said.