The Bream Fishing Project

Welcome to the Bream Fishing Project — October Monthly Report With Brett Geddes back on the mic, we cover a huge month: national comp calendar, honest session breakdowns (the good, the bad, and the donuts), tackle and tech that moved the needle, and bigger-picture news that matters to kayak lure anglers. Around the Grounds (October comps) Hobie — Burrill Lake (Thu 2 Oct, AOY points only, mid-week round) Hobie — BurleyPro Fish Tech, St Georges Basin (4–5 Oct) — Andrew will be there NSW Tournament Series — Grand Final, Botany Bay (25–26 Oct) ABT — Vic Open, Gippsland Lakes (11–12 Oct) ABT — Grand Final, Bemm & Marlo (14–16 Oct) Action Fishing Tournaments — Grand Final, Camden Haven (25–26 Oct) Vic Bream Classics — Round 5, Warrnambool (18–19 Oct) WATA — Boat Rd 3, Swan River (Perth, 5 Oct) ECBS — Grand Final, Sydney Harbour (19 Oct) Segments What Cheeses Me Off —  New segment tease — “I think I did a dumb thing”  Sessions, Tactics & Lessons Waller Lake — Stunning, but savage: 55 donuts Day 1 (of 75); Jason Marshall ~3.5 kg. Andrew scratched two late Day 2 near the launch — lesson: don't overrun the obvious. Grubs Month (Collective focus) Georges River — ActiveTarget on boat-holes/mooring blocks; Squidgy Wrigglers on 1/16 oz & lighter in 2–3 m; watched fish rise to the drift. Standout fish 36 fork, 32, 30, plus a salmon called on sonar. Tunks Park — All-day grubs, great FFS interactions… and the missed photo that cost places. St Georges Basin prefish — Salmon schools “called” on FFS (cast-to-distance trick worked for Stewie Dunn). Only one legal bream for Andrew. Stewie tangles with a very big mulloway on 5 lb/light gauge — compelling FFS footage shows scale vs bream. Brett's update — Windy spring, bream moody; perch to the rescue. From ~1400 to 1700 EPs, often 30–40/session on blades (Sprat/Tomahawk 85 style). Squid mission ongoing. Big Bite & Big Picture Yellowfin tuna (stickbaits) — Electric surface rushes, chaotic ramps; single stinger hook setups; airborne follows and missed bites provide insane visuals. South Australia fish kill — Coastal oxygen event; tough for communities and tourism. Nature will rebound, but it'll take time. Community shout-outs Andrew “Andy” Kettle — Land-based, night-only EP specialist; surface walkers/high-stick retrieve; “EP ninja” dedication. Leon — Strong Hobie Day 1; three kayak rules: mussel, mussel, no flatties aboard. Gear we mentioned  Jabbers travel rods (6-piece) & Upper Cut trebles (12/14/16; strong, sticky; 100-pack jars). BurleyPro HDS Pro visor (better screen & battery headroom); Connector Protectors (stop wet-plug corrosion). Braid 0.4 PE white (rated 8 lb; higher measured break); considering bite-marker dots for strike watching (inspired by Joseph Gardner using multi-colour jigging braid). Shyne Away leader treatment — Degloss + decontaminate to reduce visibility (most effective to up to 10–12 lb leaders). Lovig Bay Boots — Warm/dry, easy winter wear; trying full size run at St Georges Basin. Hobie news — Ownership update discussion; 180 drive aftermarket ceramic roller solution mentioned (alternative when out of warranty). K-spike kayak power pole (Greg Rook; with Tony “Batman” Petty); lightweight 6/8/10 ft; drift chute attachment idea is clever. Regional outlook (VIC/NSW) Early spring bream remain fickle (Aug–Oct lull). Expect ramp-up as temps lift; dusky flathead to become a major play. Daylight savings adds post-work windows. Timestamps / Chapters (Adjust once your final audio export sets exact times.) 00:00 Intro — why this month matters 02:10 Around the Grounds — October comp calendar 08:45 Segment: What Cheeses Me Off (the 10 mm spanner) 12:20 New segment tease: “I think I did a dumb thing” 16:00 Wallaga Lake wrap — donuts, context, and late salvage 20:05 Georges River — grubs + ActiveTarget (fish rising to the drift) 25:10 Tunks Park — the missed photo lesson 28:30 St Georges Basin prefish — calling salmon on FFS; Stewie's big mulloway on 5 lb 34:40 Brett's perch run — 1,700 EPs, blade patterns, squid pains 40:25 Yellowfin stickbait bite — why it's so wild 45:15 South Australia fish kill — what's happening and why it matters 50:00 Community — Andrew “EP ninja” Kettle; Leon's kayak rules 53:10 Gear — Jabbers trebles & rods 56:20 BurleyPro visor + connector protectors 59:15 Braid & bite-markers; Joseph Gardner note 1:02:20 Shyne Away leader matte 1:05:10 Lovig Bay Boots — try-ons at Basin 1:08:40 Hobie ownership chat; 180 ceramic fix; name change note 1:14:30 K-Spike kayak power pole preview 1:18:00 October fishing outlook 1:21:30 Interview workload & what's coming 1:24:30 Hosting change to Podbean & dynamic ads 1:28:45 Outro & subscribe CTA

Hi everyone, and welcome to The Bream Fishing Project. In this episode we're off to Nelson on the Glenelg River reviewing the 2025 TT Glenelg Shire Bream Classic, brought to you by the Vic Bream Classics. This one was held on 21–22 June 2025. One of the things I like about the Vic Bream Classics is they have all the divisions — juniors, Big Bream, Best Bag — heaps to dig into. Roll the intros and let's get straight into it. What's inside this episode: • Why the Vic Bream Classics format shines (juniors, Big Bream, Best Bag and more). • Full event stats: fish activity wheel, major bite windows and tides for both days. • Division highlights. • Interviews: – Team Blackfin (3rd overall): Steve Wheeler on mudflats vs edges, vibes vs plastics, and managing perch by-catch. – Team Nomad BKK (1st overall on countback): Peter Bouquet Jr on structure, vibes, prototype plastics, and straight-through light leaders. The Collective (subscriber group): Quick reminder: the Collective (private subscription group for The Bream Fishing Project) is focusing on grubs this month. We pick a lure or lure style, fish it as a group, then reconvene to compare notes and dial it in together. There are a couple of exciting things coming in the next months (even Collective members don't know yet). Join or support the show: https://breamfishingproject.supercast.com Event stats (as discussed on the show): Dates: Saturday 21 June & Sunday 22 June 2025 Location: Nelson, Glenelg River Saturday: • Fish Activity Wheel: 47 • Major bite: 7:03–9:33 • Low tide: 1:04 AM @ 0.40 • High tide: 10:59 AM @ 0.71 Sunday: • Fish Activity Wheel: 59 • Major bite: 7:58–10:28 • Low tide: 1:48 AM @ 0.34 • High tide: 11:19 AM @ 0.84 Division highlights (as discussed on the show): • Sunline Best Bag: Team Sniper (Ray & Brandon Doman) — 5/5 for 5.005 kg • Ecogear Big Bream: Team Sniper (Ray & Brandon Doman) — 1.345 kg • Monster Movers: Team Weedless (Matty Katon & Byron Blaine) — 5 for 3.325 kg on Day 2, up 23 places to 28th • Junior Angler: Jarvis Kent (Team Apollo Bay Fishing Charters) — finished 8th • Miller Rods prize: Team Slow Rollers (Darren Lock & Quentin) — 1.625 Full results are at: https://vicbreamclassics.com.au Interview 1 — Team Blackfin (3rd overall) Weights: • Day 1: 5 for 3.580 kg (Big Bream 1.27) • Day 2: 5 for 4.025 kg (Big Bream 1.175) • Total: 7.605 kg (3rd) Notes from Steve Wheeler: • Prefish: launched at Dry Creek; checked rock-wall edges, reeds and mudflats. A 36 fork fish on a mudflat set the plan. • Boat placement let them reach reeds in ~0.5–0.75 m and the drop into ~4 m; picked fish in that 4 m zone. • Day 1 edges were quiet; moving wider with vibes (Cranka Vibe, Bivi Vibe) and small hops in 2.5–4 m produced bites. Added a heavy “muss” bite for an upgrade. Lots of perch mixed in. • Day 2 similar program on mudflats with one early ~36 fork and a bag of 32–33s. • Leader thinking: prefers thin-diameter 6 lb (and 8 lb on structure). Prize: $1,500 split. Interview 2 — Team Nomad BKK (1st overall, on countback) Weights: • Day 1: 5 for 3.980 kg (kicker 1.145) • Day 2: 5 for 4.015 kg • Total: 7.995 kg (tied with 2nd; won on Day-1 bag countback) Prefish & pattern (Peter Bouquet Jr): • Marked fish on Active Target (T1) before light; first ski zone edges dropping to 3–4 m with trees and rock. • Early bites on a prototype Nomad soft plastic (natural/brown-orange) and ZX35 vibe (black, assist hooks). • Structure (shacks & poles) produced 600–800 g fish on 1/16 hidden-weight jigs; saved it for comp. Day 1: • Two early ~700 g fish on the prototype plastic on structure. • Taylor Strait: Cranka Crab (olive) on 3 lb straight-through for ~750 g. • Donovans: mixed EP/bream school on side scan; heavier plastic (1/12) delivered a 1.145 kg kicker. • Finished bag near the mouth; ZX-style vibe (black) with assist pushed through weed. Day 2: • More pressure and tentative bites. • A foam/eddy on a pole produced three quick fish (~850 g, ~750 g, ~700 g) on the prototype plastic with stingers. • First ski zone: another solid ~750 g on plastic from an undercut edge. • Donovans: targeted shadow lines on rock; Cranka Crab (black) on 3 lb straight-through sealed the fifth fish and upgraded a 29.5 cm. • Lines/leaders: 6 lb braid; 3–4 lb leaders (and 3 lb straight-through with crabs) to keep bites coming in winter; softer, longer rods helped keep hooks pinned. Prize: $3,750. Tackle mentioned (from the show): • Hardbodies: Spike 53 (matt prawn), various edge cranks • Vibes: Cranka Vibe, Bivi Vibe, ZX35 (black with assist) • Crabs: Cranka Crab (olive, black); slow crawl; 3 lb straight-through noted • Soft plastics: Prototype Nomad plastic (natural/brown-orange), hidden-weight jigs (1/16, 1/12), stinger hooks on Day 2 • Leaders: 3–4 lb (straight-through for crabs) up to 6–8 lb on structure; emphasis on thin diameters • Electronics: Active Target (T1), side scan to find mixed EP/bream schools Thanks & credits (from the show): • Vic Bream Classics and Bill for running great events and varied venues. • Team mates, travel crews and fellow anglers for the laughs and friendly rivalry. • Nomad & BKK mentioned by winners. • Full results: https://vicbreamclassics.com.au Call to action: Enjoyed the episode or learned something? Please subscribe and rate on your favourite podcast app. Join the Collective for early access, private live streams, challenges and bonus content: https://breamfishingproject.supercast.com  

NSW Tournament Series – Round 4 (Lake Macquarie) | 15 June 2025 Welcome to The Bream Fishing Project. This episode covers Round 4 of the New South Wales Tournament Series held at Lake Macquarie (15 June 2025). After a quick housekeeping note about upcoming dynamic ads and a behind-the-scenes hosting platform change (no change to your listening experience—please reach out if you hit any issues), we dive straight into the results and angler interviews. Results covered Winners – Team Stratosphere (solo): 5/5 for 4.84 kg, including Big Bream of 1.40 kg. Guest: David Masters (how he located fish, why he stayed shallow with blades, coping with gear issues on comp day). 3rd – Team Flat Knacky: 5/5 for 4.26 kg, Big Bream 1.23 kg. Guest: Steve Cole (no-plan plan, hot-water outlet start, deep cockle-weed gutter, steady upgrades). Tactics & takeaways (as discussed by guests) Location & approach: Shallow blading near edges/cockle beds (Masters); deeper gutter with cockle weed and bait present (Cole). Lures mentioned: Crankbaits; Z-Man Slim SwimZ; Z-Man Prawn (motor oil); Gulp Prawn (camo); metal blades. By-catch & moments: Flathead runs, an 80 cm jewfish on a 2" prawn, and even an accidental hammerhead hookup near the boat. Lines/leaders (Masters): 6 lb braid with 3–6 lb leader, subtle bites, careful drag management. Tides & bite window (host notes) Fish Activity Wheel: 57 Minor bite period: 9:17–10:47 a.m. Low tide: 5:36 a.m. (0.26 m) High tide: 11:15 a.m. (0.77 m) Housekeeping You may hear the return of ads—now dynamically inserted so deals, lure releases, and tournament info stay current. If you're in the fishing industry and want to get involved, reach out for a chat. Support & community Want to go deeper or support the show? Join The Bream Fishing Project Collective for community chats and extra content: breamfishingproject.supercast.com. After joining, please message me on Facebook so I can link you to the private group. If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe and rate the show on your podcast app. Thanks for listening!      

Hobie Kayak BREAM — Round 5, Georges River | 14–15 June (Anaconda Round) One of Andrew's favourites! We're on the Georges River in Sydney for Hobie Kayak BREAM Series — Round 5 (Sat–Sun, 14–15 June), proudly round-sponsored by Anaconda. We cover bite windows, tides, divisions and then dive into angler interviews with the podium—plus a shout-out to The Bream Fishing Project Collective crew for putting on the enhanced sausage sanga BBQ all weekend.

WA BREAM Series — Boat Round 2 (Peel/Mandurah) | 15 June 2025 We're off to Western Australia to recap WA BREAM Series — Boat Round 2 on the Peel/Mandurah system (Sunday 15 June 2025). Andrew breaks down bite windows, tides and the winning patterns before rolling into angler interviews with the top three teams. Results & Guests 1st — Team Stinger (4.380 kg, Big Bream 1.27 kg): Alex Griesdorf & Ben Oaks detail a canals bite that shifted from Z-Man grubs early to brim prawn (Decoy Worm5/offset) as conditions changed, with last-minute upgrades sealing the win. 2nd — Team B1 & B2 (4.050 kg, Big Bream 1.62 kg): Joseph & Jenny Gardner on a four-fish bag anchored by a 1.62 kg Big Bream. No pre-fish; methodical work on lower-Murray snags, brim prawn + Decoy Worm5 on 6–8 lb leaders, shaded timber, and bird-sign clues. 3rd — Team Dragon (3.740 kg): Bill Bland (with Rob) milked bridge pylons, mixing Gulp Crabby on 1/16–1/32 jigheads and River2Sea Baby Vibes. Smart boat handling around wood vs concrete pylons delivered a near-kilo average. Conditions (as discussed) Fish Activity Wheel: 56 Minor bite: 9:42–11:12 a.m. Tides: High 12:20 p.m. (0.64 m); Low 11:44 p.m. (0.28 m) Tackle & Techniques Mentioned Brim prawn/weedless (Decoy Worm5), Z-Man Grub 2.5", Gulp Crabby, River2Sea Baby Vibe, Hurricane prawn; 6–8 lb leaders; bridge pylons, canals, shaded snags; patient bites and deliberate boat positioning to pull fish clear. Thanks (from the anglers) Huge appreciation to the event volunteers/organisers and series sponsors who keep WA comps running. Early access & extras: Get episodes early + live challenge sessions—join The Bream Fishing Project Collective: breamfishingproject.supercast.com Instagram: @thebreamfishingproject  

Episode 151 — September 2025 Monthly Report with Brett Geddes

Welcome back to The Bream Fishing Project! In this episode, we head to Tuggerah Lakes for the Action Fishing Tournament held on May 10, 2025. It was an incredibly tight competition, with podium spots decided on countback and some big fish hitting the decks early in the session. Joining host Andrew Death (2019 Hobie Kayak Fishing World Champion) are the top three finishers from the round:

We're back in the fast boats on the Tweed River, NSW, for the final ABT qualifier of 2025—two wind-and-rain-soaked days that still produced cracking fishing, a first-time boater champion, and both boater and non-boater Angler of the Year stories. Non-Boaters 1st – Lance Marsh (2.975 kg): Methodical and calm across bridges, walls and the famed Blue Hole; mixed Z-Man GrubZ (motor oil), Cranka Crab, and plastics to stack steady upgrades and claim his second tour win. 2nd – Grant Painter (2.89 kg): Day-one damage on Cranka Crab over Kennedy Drive reef, then switched gears on Day 2 with unweighted Aquas and Gulp Crabby on bridges and walls to hang on for the podium. 3rd – Nathan Booth (2.730 kg) —and 2025 Non-Boater AOY: Versatile across deep rock edges and mid-river rubble with Hurricane Sprat Hybrid 85s (bloodworm tail), grubs on 1/6–1/4 oz heads, and Cranka Crabs. Light leaders (3–4 lb) and smart current angles were key. Boaters 1st – Joe Darmody (5.540 kg total, incl. 3.035 kg Day 2 & big bream ~1.335kg): A clutch Day-2 mega bream off the exposed M1 reef line sealed it. Smart tide calls, precise crankbaiting (Jackall Chubby Brown Suji) along shallow rock and man-made walls, and opportunistic Aquas around structure turned four fish into a match-winning limit. 2nd – Mark Healey (4.935 kg) & back-to-back Boater AOY (497 pts): Classic Healey consistency—deep structure rotations, Cranka Crab on reefs/bridge pylons, and selective crankbait runs. Forward-facing sonar (Active Target 2) helped pick off better schools without over-fishing dead water. 3rd – Ben Cronk (4.680 kg): In his first ABT boater start, leaned on bigger profiles (MMD Soft Prawn 60/75 rigged on heavier jigheads) to glide down rock faces and draw quality bites; finished with tidy back-to-back limits. Patterns & Tackle at a Glance Locations: Kennedy Drive reef, M1 bridge, deep foreshore walls, Blue Hole. Tides: Early bites around the run-in; quality windows on the turn and first of the run-out. Lures: Cranka Crab (brown/olive tones), Jackall Chubby (Brown Suji), Hurricane Sprat Hybrid 85, MMD Soft Prawn, Z-Man GrubZ (motor oil), Gulp Crabby, Aquas. Rigs: 1/6–1/4 oz jigheads to beat heavy flow; 3–6 lb leaders; keep hooks razor-sharp—treble swaps mattered on the tougher Day 2. Plus: playlists are now live—jump into our Tweed bundle on Spotify to binge every Tweed-system episode ahead of the Grand Final prep. Enjoy the interviews, the tactics, and the tales—from first-cast hookups to that once-in-a-season lunchtime kilo-plus bream that changed everything.  

August 2025 Monthly Report – The Bream Fishing Project Podcast In this August Monthly Report, Andrew takes you through a big month in the bream fishing scene, bringing together tournament results, Collective news, and his own on-water experiences. It's a packed episode that reflects on where things stand as we head into the final stretch of the year. You'll hear about standout results from recent events, including who placed where and the conditions anglers faced on the day. Andrew gives updates from The Bream Fishing Project Collective, including the current lure challenges, member contributions, and upcoming live sessions. He also shares what's been working for him personally, and some of the lessons learned from time on the water this month. The conversation covers the latest with popular lures like the Squidgy Bug and Crush City Trickster, as well as the role they've played in recent sessions. You'll get a clear snapshot of how anglers are approaching different conditions and how community feedback is shaping the Collective's challenges going forward. If you've been following the comps, want to keep up with the latest trends, or just enjoy the monthly wrap of news and stories from Australia's bream fishing community, this episode is for you.

In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, we're back at Foster for Round 3 of the Hobie Fishing Series, held on 12–13 April, proudly supported by sponsor Pro Lure. Host Andrew Death not only fished this round but brings you firsthand insights and interviews with the top anglers from the weekend. First up, Ryan Honeybrook, who secured his first Hobie podium with a third-place finish, shares a detailed account of his strategy fishing the Forster racks and the breakwall, how he adapted across both days, the key baits he used—including Aquas and Crabby—and how guidance from his mate at Stoke Lures influenced his approach. Next, we hear from current Hobie Kayak Fishing World Champion Jack Gammie, who claimed second place with an impressively consistent performance. Jack breaks down his tactics targeting shallow rock bars and racks, his lure selection featuring Pro Lure shallow cranks and Aquas, and adjustments he made to leader and presentation to suit conditions. Finally, Luke Rogan—who backed up his 2024 win with another first-place finish in 2025—details his fearless style of skull-dragging big fish from gnarly racks using heavy tackle, bent minnows and crank crabs, and how he managed fish and spots across both days. Luke reflects on how minor changes in conditions between Day 1 and Day 2 influenced his result and shares what this repeat win at Foster means to him. This episode provides a wealth of insights for anglers chasing bream in racks, rock bars, and oyster leases and delivers great stories from some of Australia's top tournament competitors.

In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, we recap Round 1 of the 2025 WA Bream Series, held at stunning Walpole in the Nornalup Inlet. It was a tough two-day boat round under challenging conditions, featuring a four-fish bag limit and a two-week prefish ban that tested the skills of all competitors. We catch up with two top teams from the event: Callum Dowell and Oliver Frank from Team Don't Blush Bream, who finished third. Callum, founder of Outback Bruma Baits, shares fascinating insights into his lure designs, customizing colors to match local shellfish, and the importance of replicating natural profiles. He and Oliver detail their tournament strategy, including an impressive Day 2 turnaround driven by adapting techniques—from bent minnows to Hurricane Sprats on resin heads, including a subtle but critical adjustment with suspend dots that helped them secure upgrades. Oliver, in just his first tournament, even talks about landing a 50 cm bream and fishing the event with his uncle, Callum. Joseph Gardner and Jenny Gardner from Team B1 & B2, who finished second. Joseph explains why they targeted the scenic Deep River instead of the more familiar Franklin River. They share a breakdown of their successful day-one approach that put them in the lead, including fishing bent minnows deep among snags, precise casting to structure, and carefully rigged Brim Prawns and Pygmy Mussels. Joseph discusses their second-day challenges as conditions and pressure changed, the need to adapt techniques, and Jenny's crucial contributions to filling the bag when the bite got tough. We also recap the winning performance by Daniel and Mitch Perella, who mounted an extraordinary comeback on Day 2 with a massive four-fish bag for 3.28 kg, including an 870-gram kicker fish—taking the win by over 1.2 kg. Bite Periods and Tides Recap: Saturday: Major bite period at 4:43–7:13 AM, low tide at 7:16 AM (0.17 m), high tide at 8:48 AM (0.35 m). Sunday: Major bite period at 5:36–8:06 AM, low tide at 7:24 AM (0.17 m), high tide at 9:51 AM (0.36 m). Throughout the interviews we explore gear choices, rigging techniques, key adjustments made under pressure, and tournament highlights that illustrate the creativity and skill required to succeed in this tricky fishery.

  In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, we recap all the action from the Action Fishing Tournament's Pittwater Round, held on March 23, 2025—a challenging day that tested even the most seasoned anglers. We hear from the top three placegetters, each with their own fascinating stories: 3rd place: Nelson Guerrera, in his very first tournament, shares how he overcame nerves and no pre-fish to secure a podium with boats, pontoons and carefully placed crab casts. 2nd place: Jason Reid reveals his approach to reading structure and fighting hard-won fish in tough conditions, building on his win in the previous round. 1st place: Jamie Dempsey claims back-to-back victories with a measured approach, key lure changes, and an eye for detail that made all the difference. But stay tuned—Andrew also shares his own incredible story from the day… let's just say that after struggling all day to find fish, the final moments of the comp delivered an unexpected twist. For anglers looking to improve their results and fast-track their learning, join The Bream Fishing Project Collective for exclusive live streams, content and community discussions: breamfishingproject.supercast.com This episode is packed with insights for anyone who loves kayak bream fishing, from beginners through to competitors looking to hone their edge.  

In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, we're back at one of my all-time favourite arenas — Forster — to recap Round 1 of the 2025 Daiwa BREAM Series, proudly presented by ABT and sponsored by X-Braid. With the Manning River round cancelled due to weather, Forster stepped up to host the first of two back-to-back events across June 4–5 — and the fishing didn't disappoint. We kick things off with Sam Raco, who took 3rd place in the non-boating division with 2.865 kg. After a slow start and no fish until 11 a.m. on Day 1, Sam found success working racks with Outback Breamer muss lures and Bait Junkie Risky Critters, before pulling a critical late-session upgrade on a Cranka Crab that bumped him into the top three by just 30 grams. But the standout performance of the round came from Mark Healey, who delivered a commanding win in the boating division with 10 fish for 6.975 kg — more than a full kilo ahead of second place. Mark overcame major hurdles just to compete — including mechanical issues during pre-fish that forced him to borrow a boat — yet still produced a flawless two-day campaign. He leaned on years of experience, precise crab presentations, and thoughtful spot management. His Day 1 included the big bream of the event, a 1.485 kg unit that helped secure his overnight lead. Day 2 saw him nearly crack 4 kg, sealing the win in dominant fashion. Healey breaks down his winning approach: Shimano Expride 6'10" Medium Light Vanford 2500HG 6 lb Sunline Castaway braid and 8–10 lb Ocea fluorocarbon leader Heavy Cranka Crabs in UV Olive for maximum line contact and drift control in tight structure Also featured:

In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, we head to the mighty Botany Bay on the Georges River in Sydney to recap the NSW BREAM Tournament Series round held on the 9th of March 2025. A one-day event with everything from boat trouble and bad weather to big fish and first-place finishes. We hear from:

  Daiwa BREAM Series – Blackwood River WA | May 17–18, 2025 – Full Event Recap In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, we're heading back to the picturesque but punishing Blackwood River in Western Australia to break down the Daiwa BREAM Series round held over the weekend of May 17–18, 2025. With conditions proving difficult across both days—flat conditions, fog delays, speed restrictions, and finicky fish—the event became a real test of patience, presentation, and local knowledge. Despite the challenges, Rob Dawson came out on top in the boating division with a unique stat: matching weights of 1.93 kg on both days of competition. In a field full of experienced competitors, consistency was key. Joining the show are all six podium finishers—boaters and non-boaters—who walk us through their pre-fish strategies, lure choices, on-the-day decisions, and what they'd do differently next time. You'll hear from: Boating Division: Rob Dawson (1st), Greg Cooper (2nd), and Mark Crompton (3rd) Non-Boating Division: Ben Oakes (1st), Ruan Vanderberg (2nd), and Michael Saot (3rd) From jerkbaits and sprats to mussel vibes, baby vibes, and finesse presentations, the stories highlight how subtle adjustments and sheer persistence made all the difference. Whether it was long casts with stick minnows, twitching Noris laydown minnows across wind-blown flats, or dragging Z-Man craws along the bottom, each angler found a different way to unlock fish. There are also some great personal reflections—Ruan revisits his early days on the show, Rob discusses guiding on the Blackwood, and Mark shares how one turned belly-up fish possibly cost him the win. It's a great reminder of how small margins often define tournament results.

Jamie McKeown – 3-Time Australian Open Champion Full Episode Description: In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, I'm joined by Jamie McKeown, who has just made history by becoming a three-time winner of the Daiwa BREAM Australian Open. With 15 fish for 10.405 kg across three days on Sydney Harbour, Jamie delivered one of the most consistent and hard-fought victories we've seen in years. We go deep into:

2025 Daiwa BREAM Australian Open – Day 1 & 2 Deep Dive (feat. Tim Vickers & Steve Morgan) In this first part of our two-episode special, The Bream Fishing Project takes you into the heart of the 2025 Daiwa BREAM Australian Open — one of Australia's premier lure-only bream tournaments, fished across Sydney Harbour and launching from Drummoyne Sailing Club. Host Andrew Death sets the tone with a sharp overview of the tournament structure, timing, and bite windows, before shifting gears into two of the most insightful, technical, and honest interviews you'll hear all season.

Big Bream and Big Stories on the Hawkesbury – Daiwa BREAM Series May 2025 In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, we head to the Hawkesbury River for the Daiwa BREAM Series, held over the weekend of May 3–4, 2025, with Bait Junkie as the proud round sponsor. It was a huge event with fast boats, heavy fuel bills, and some massive bream hitting the scales. We catch up with the top three non-boaters:

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In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, we head to the Glenelg River for the Bream Master South Australia round, held on March 22–23, 2025. This round was a Hobie qualifying event and delivered an incredibly tight finish, with just 50 grams separating second through sixth place. Join Andrew as he interviews the top three anglers — Kobe Rothel, Dylan Pace, and Sean Pearson — for a deep dive into their winning strategies, techniques, and bait choices. Kobe Rothel shares how he cracked over 5kg using mussel-style presentations, while Dylan Pace reflects on a rollercoaster weekend full of long river runs, lost kilo fish, and a strong Day 2 comeback. Sean Pearson discusses transitioning from surface lures in pre-fish to a deeper bite during competition and explains how subtle rigging and lure changes helped secure his third-place finish. We also break down the bite periods, tides, and environmental changes that made this event unique — plus a quick mention of the Australian Open wrapping up and the launch of our latest Collective Challenge: Crabs and Mussels. Brands and lures mentioned in this episode include: Outback Breamer Baits – including the highly effective mussel presentations Gladiator Tackle Force Lures Fishin.com.au – source of the popular Baby Vibe Hurricane Lures Find them on Facebook – Blue Lip Baits

This week on The Bream Fishing Project, we're heading back to one of my favorite battlegrounds — the mighty Georges River — for Round 2 of the 2025 Action Fishing Tournaments! The Georges threw plenty of challenges our way, but it also delivered some absolute magic for the anglers who cracked the code. In this episode, I'll walk you through the day's conditions, a few insights from my own session, and then we dive into interviews with the top three anglers who lit it up when it mattered most. Joshua Richards kicks things off with a gritty performance fishing out of a no-frills Hobie Outback — no sounder, no 180 drive, not even a paddle! He shares how simplicity and good decision-making carried him onto the podium. Next up, Jamie Dempsey talks us through his climb to second place, revealing how he tuned his crankbaits to perfection, pulled crucial upgrades from boat hulls, and leaned on a perfectly balanced finesse setup to make it all happen. And finally, Jason Reid caps off the episode with a wild story of landing a monster 45.5cm bream on 4lb leader after a heart-stopping battle around the pontoons — a fish that not only secured him first place but also Big Bream honors for the day. You'll hear about tackle choices, lure selections, tuning tricks, and some crazy moments that made all the difference. If you're chasing your next PB or just love hearing how tournaments are won, you'll love this one! Plus, don't miss the updates on the next Action Fishing Tournament rounds — including Redcliffe and Tuggerah Lakes — and a reminder that The Bream Fishing Project Collective is gearing up for our next live session on Wednesday, 30 April. Jump in now at breamfishingproject.supercast.com to be part of it! Massive thanks to Joshua, Jamie, and Jason for sharing their stories — and congrats again on some seriously impressive fishing. Let's dive into it!  

In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, we head to the mighty Bemm River for Round 2 of the 2025 Hobie Kayak Fishing Series, held on March 1st and 2nd. The fishing was fierce, the bite periods were tight, and the final results came down to just grams between podium places. Join host Andrew Death as he recaps the weekend's conditions, breaks down the tides and bite periods, and dives deep into full interviews with the top three finishers:

  Episode Title: NSW Tournament Series Round 1 – Hawkesbury River Recap In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, we head to the iconic Hawkesbury River for a full recap of Round 1 of the NSW Tournament Series, held on February 9th, 2024. Host Andrew Death is joined by the top three teams from the event as they break down their strategies, gear choices, and the standout moments that landed them on the podium. In third place, Team Fanatics—James and Josh—share how their last-minute partnership came together, how they committed to the surface bite using cicada lures, and how they adapted to tidal shifts and wash fishing to lock in a 4.03 kg bag. In second place, Team McBarron Constructions—Jared and Brenton—talk through a patient, methodical approach with surface lures that paid off, including how they landed the tournament's second-biggest fish, a 1.17 kg kicker that secured them the Fishing.com.au Kicker for Cash prize. Topping the field was Team Bait Shop Toukley / Force Lures—Adam and Jake Amos—with a winning five-fish bag of 4.55 kg, including the event's biggest bream at 1.25 kg. The father-son duo dive into their pre-fish planning, their use of Force Lures Ziggy topwater lures, and the key moment Jake landed a crucial upgrade late in the session. In a powerful gesture, the pair donated part of their winnings to The Fly Program, highlighting the strength of community within the tournament scene. This episode is packed with technical insights into surface fishing, lure selection, leader choices, and how to manage boat positioning in tough conditions. Whether you're chasing bream on your home water or prepping for the next comp, there's something here for every serious angler. Brought to you by our ongoing supporters: The Bream Fishing Project Collective—our premium subscriber community offering bonus content, live Q&As, and early access to episodes. To support The Fly Program and access bonus episodes, early drops, and exclusive member live streams, head to breamfishingproject.supercast.com.  

In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, we break down Round 1 of the 2025 Bream Masters South Australia series, held at Port River, Port Adelaide on February 1st and 2nd. It was a grind for the entire field, but we caught up with the top three anglers to hear how they managed to put fish in the well when others struggled to even land a legal. Your host, 2019 Hobie Kayak Fishing World Champion Andrew Death, chats with:

In this episode, we're diving into the competitive waters of Mallacoota, Victoria, where we cover the Daiwa ABT Bream Series Round 2 held on February 22nd and 23rd. This round featured the innovative Humminbird technology onboard Steve Morgan's boat, playing a significant role in the competition. Stay tuned as we roll into the details of how these technological advancements influenced the results and delve into the techniques and strategies that made a difference in this tight contest. Join us for an insightful episode filled with expert commentary and pro tips directly from the waters of Mallacoota! Mark Healy - Claiming the top spot again, Mark showed his adaptability and strategic thinking. Despite a challenging pre-fish day where he didn't find any significant patterns, Mark stayed committed to his spots. Utilizing a mix of deep cranking techniques, he was able to find quality fish in narrow, specific bite windows. His ability to stay patient and capitalize during these short periods of activity, particularly with a standout 39-fork-length bream, secured his victory. Mario Vukic - Coming in at second place, Mario also faced a tough event with hard-to-come-by bites. He navigated the challenging conditions by adjusting his tactics throughout the tournament, focusing on deeper water when his usual spots didn't produce. His persistence paid off on the second day when he tapped into a productive pattern near Goodwin Sands, targeting deeper fish that were less affected by the fresh influx of water. Steve Morgan - Known for his analytical approach and utilization of technology, Steve found success by adapting his strategies based on real-time observations from his fish finder. Fishing with live sonar helped him understand the fish's behavior, especially their movement in relation to the thermocline in the lake. Steve's methodical approach allowed him to target fish that others might have missed, contributing to a solid finish. "Join The Bream Fishing Project Collective today and transform your fishing experience! Dive into a community where passion for bream fishing thrives and knowledge is shared openly. By becoming a member, you'll gain early access to our insightful podcast episodes when available, participate in exclusive monthly live streams, and engage in our private Facebook group discussions. It's not just a subscription; it's an entry into a circle of anglers dedicated to refining their craft and catching more fish, together. Don't miss out—subscribe now and be part of a community that celebrates every catch and supports every cast!" The Bream Fishing Project Collective

Episode Description: Join us for an exciting episode of The Bream Fishing Project, where host Andrew Death, alongside the ABT team, delves into the first round of the Daiwa Bream Series held at Gippsland Lakes on February 18th and 19th, 2025. This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of the tournament, highlighting key strategies and the unexpected results that shook the leaderboards. Andrew brings you exclusive interviews with five of the top competitors who share their tactics, the conditions they faced, and the critical decisions that led to their success. Whether you're a tournament angler or a casual fisher looking to up your game, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

 Atomic Western Australian Bream Series Join us as we wrap up the Atomic Western Australian Bream Series with an action-packed finale on the Blackwood River in Augusta. This episode dives into the strategies and challenges faced by our top anglers who made the podium in this closely contested series. Hear from our champions, Alex Griesdorf and Ben Oaks, whose effective use of bloodworm and motor oil colored lures under tough conditions led them to victory. We also spotlight the second-place finishers, Jared Stephens and Barry Brownrigg, who utilized a combination of precision and adaptability with different jig head weights to outsmart the competition. Don't miss insightful interviews with Joseph and Jenny Gardner, who secured a respectable third place with their unique team dynamics and fishing tactics. Discover how these skilled anglers leveraged their knowledge of the river's conditions, combined with strategic lure choices, to maximize their catches. Tune in for a deep dive into the techniques that tipped the scales and the gear that helped our anglers succeed. Whether you're an aspiring tournament competitor or a recreational fisher looking to learn from the best, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Sponsor Links:          Zeus Tackle Hunter Water Sports Jabbers Australia   For more exclusive content and to join our passionate community of anglers, check out our subscription service, The Bream Fishing Project Collective, at breamfishingproject.supercast.com. Subscribe today for early access to podcasts, monthly live streams, and much more! Join the collective before our next live stream to enhance your fishing skills and connect with fellow enthusiasts!  

Action Fishing Tournaments Grand Final. Held on October 27, 2024, this episode offers a riveting look at the strategies, successes, and stories from the front lines of tournament fishing. Listen in as third-place finisher Ben Pearce shares his experiences and tactics from the event, revealing how pre-fishing efforts and lure choices helped him secure a spot on the podium. The episode doesn't just spotlight competitive strategies but also delves into the personal stories of the anglers, their preparations, and the challenges they faced. Finally in this episode of the Bream Fishing Project Podcast, Corey Lean takes the spotlight, securing first place with an impressive haul. Not only is Corey celebrated for his angling skills, but he is also the entrepreneur behind Podium Marine Wraps, specializing in high-quality marine wraps that provide protection and flair to boats. His dual expertise shines through as he discusses strategies and insights that led to his victory, making this episode a treasure trove of knowledge for fishing enthusiasts looking to enhance both their technique and their gear. Furthermore, this episode is a must-listen for enthusiasts and aspiring anglers alike, featuring discussions on fishing techniques, lure selections, and detailed insights into the day's fishing conditions. It's a comprehensive guide to understanding what it takes to compete in and enjoy the sport of bream fishing. Support for this episode comes from our dedicated sponsors. Get the latest fishing tackle and gear from fishin.com.au, and explore a wide range of products designed for both the casual fisher and the tournament angler. For more specialized gear, visit HWS at hws.com.au for the best in kayak fishing equipment and advice. Join us at the Bream Fishing Project Podcast for a blend of entertainment, education, and community stories that resonate with anyone passionate about fishing. Subscribe and rate us on your favorite podcasting platform to never miss an episode!   Fishing gear and tackle: fishin.com.au Kayak fishing equipment: hws.com.au Podium Marine Wraps: podiummarinewraps.com.au

Episode 113: Grand Final Frenzy – ECBS Showdown at Sydney Harbour Welcome back to The Bream Fishing Project! Dive into the excitement of our Grand Final Fortnite series where we unleash a barrage of the year's most thrilling final competitions. Episode 113 takes you to the heart-pounding finale of the East Coast Bream Series, held on October 20, 2024, at Sydney Harbour. Join me, your host and 2019 Hobie Kayak Fishing World Champion Andrew Death, as we explore the strategies and stories behind the season's climactic battles. In this episode, I'll provide a detailed rundown of the bite periods, tide conditions, and, most importantly, the winning tactics that led the top teams to victory. Hear exclusive interviews with the top competitors who navigated the challenging conditions to claim their spots at the top. We also welcome new sponsor Jabbers Fishing, innovators in portable and high-quality fishing gear. Discover their range of travel rods designed for anglers on the go. Whether you're traveling abroad or fishing local waters, Jabbers has the perfect setup for every adventure. Check out their offerings at Jabbers Fishing. Don't miss the insights from Zeus Tackle either, celebrating their grand opening at 18/1-15 Murray Street, Camden. Discover why every cast counts with their premium fishing tackle and expert advice designed for all types of anglers. Learn more about them at Zeus Tackle. And if you're in the market for a new fishing kayak or looking to make some upgrades to your existing setup, HWS is the place to go. They stock a full range of Hobie kayaks and the latest kayak accessories, perfect for both casual fishers and tournament anglers. Visit them online or in-store at 3 St 638 Pacific Highway, Belmont, or explore their offerings at Hunter Water Sports. For those who want to dive deeper into the world of competitive bream fishing and gain exclusive content, consider joining The Bream Fishing Project Collective. Members enjoy early access to podcasts, special episodes, and much more. Learn more and join us at The Bream Fishing Project Collective. www.breamfishingproject.supercast.com  Whether you're a seasoned angler or just love the thrill of competition, this series of episodes promises to keep you hooked. Stay tuned as we roll out more from the Grand Final Frenzy, and don't forget to follow us on social media for more updates and special offers from our sponsors.

  Welcome back to The Bream Fishing Project! In this episode, we recap the exhilarating Hobie Round 7, which unfolded at Mallacoota on October 19-20, 2024. Despite facing massive winds and a venue change, the competition did not disappoint, featuring strategic angling and surprising outcomes. Join Andrew as he gives an in-depth review of the tactics and trials faced by the top three anglers. Hear about Ben Hanscom's strategic maneuvers that clinched his victory, Zack Morozov's adaptive techniques that secured second place, and Simon Morley's comeback story that landed him in third. Each angler shares their unique approach to navigating the challenging conditions, providing valuable insights for fishing enthusiasts. This episode also focuses on The Fly Program, an initiative supporting men's mental health through outdoor activities. Listen to Andrew's interview with Matt Trippett, founder of The Fly Program, to learn more about how they leverage the therapeutic power of nature to aid mental wellness. Links Mentioned in the Podcast: The Fly Program Fundraiser: Stronger Together - Support Here Hunter Water Sports: hws.com.au Fishing Equipment from Fishin.com.au: fishin.com.au Whether you're a competitive angler or someone passionate about making a difference, this episode is packed with action and heart. Tune in for an enriching blend of competitive spirit and community support   Join The Bream Fishing Project Collective! Dive deeper into the world of bream fishing by becoming a member of our exclusive community. Get early access to podcasts, monthly live streams, and much more. Sign up now at breamfishingproject.supercast.com and be part of our growing circle of fishing enthusiasts!

  Title: The Bream Fishing Project - Monthly Report February 2025 Description: This February, The Bream Fishing Project introduces our very first video podcast episode! Dive into the enhanced format available in both audio and video, making this an exciting session for all fishing enthusiasts. Join your host, Andrew Death, and special guest, Brett Geddes, for a comprehensive exploration into the world of bream fishing. This episode not only reviews the tournament calendar for the upcoming month but also dives into detailed discussions on recent fishing expeditions, providing invaluable tips and personal stories from the water. Learn about the latest in fishing techniques and tackle innovations. Andrew and Brett discuss the use of specific lures, the impact of seasonal changes on fishing conditions, and share their personal gear reviews to help you gear up effectively for your next outing. Visual Bonus: Don't miss the visual components in our YouTube version where you can see the techniques and gear in action! Sponsor Links: Fishin.com.au - Your one-stop shop for all your bream fishing lures and tackle needs. HWS Hobie Kayaks & Accessories - Check out the best kayaks and fishing accessories on the market. The Bream Fishing Project Collective - Join our exclusive community for monthly live streams, in-depth discussions, and more. Sign up here to be part of a unique fishing community: The Bream Fishing Project Collective. Catch all the visual action and more on YouTube, and make sure to subscribe for more expert fishing tips and exciting fish tales.   https://youtu.be/YpLFPdHCKZA?si=-DzwQOo3Rp7Uxb_T

    Episode Description: Welcome to an exciting new segment on The Bream Fishing Project! In this inaugural "Monthly Report" episode, Andrew Death is joined by Brett Geddes for an in-depth discussion that extends beyond bream fishing. Together, they dive into techniques, stories, and experiments with various fishing styles and species, including Brett's unique hybrid lures, flathead fishing adventures, and thoughts on leader weights. Discover insights into fishing in Gippsland Lakes, the evolution of dusky flathead fishing, and the secrets behind targeting big fish in different environments. This episode also unveils Brett's thoughts on adapting fishing techniques and his experiments with lighter and heavier leader lines. Plus, the tables turn as Brett interviews Andrew, giving listeners a glimpse into the highs, lows, and personal milestones of 2024.. Packed with engaging conversations and valuable fishing tips, this episode promises to kick off the "Monthly Report" series with a bang. Tune in to learn, laugh, and get inspired for your next fishing trip! Join The Bream Fishing Project Collective: Gain early access to episodes, live streams, bonus content, and more by subscribing to The Bream Fishing Project Collective. Thanks to Our Sponsors: HWS Hobie Kayaks & Accessories fishin.com.au Podium Marine Wraps Burley Pro Australia  

Episode Description Welcome to 2025! This episode of The Bream Fishing Project Podcast kicks off the new year with exciting news about a brand-new tournament series in Southern New South Wales—the New South Wales Tournament Series. Join host Andrew Death as he chats with tournament director Grant Oliver about the series format, event locations, and what anglers can look forward to. Key Highlights: Competition Overview: Learn about the Atomic Tournament Series, featuring team-based events with 1-day and 2-day formats, including a unique pre-fish ban and hybrid competition style. Calendar and Locations: Hear about tournament dates and venues, including the Hawkesbury River, Botany Bay, St. George's Basin, Lake Macquarie, Foster, and Sydney Harbour. Grand Final Details: A potential 4-day split grand final across two weekends with unique rules and exciting prizes. Special Offers: Information about sponsors, big bream prizes, and other exciting incentives.