One of my best fishing experiences was when Dad and I went on a charter with Dean Hayes. He may look like a cranky old garden gnome but he was very nice and extremely helpful.

We went to the Colo River, he showed us a few spots and a few different techniques. He showed us how to catch E.P's and after a few minutes I caught my first every Estuary Perch.

We were using 1/4 oz and 1/8 oz Bass Master Stand Up Jig Heads with Slider Bass Grubs in pumkin seed. But Dad and I found a green and yellow one that also works well.

We only use 2-4 and 1-3 seven foot Strudwick Sic Sticks with cheap Shimano Reels, about $240 for the combo, great for the money but after using Deans 1-3 Sic Stick Pro I wanted one of my own.

I have chased E.P's since and seem to improve every trip. I caught one lastComp day and Dad and I had a great session last saturday.

Thank you Dean and thank you everybody in the Club for making me feel welcome.

This article was written by Elise Hardiman for the June 2005 edition of the HNBAA newsletter. The pictures were also supplied by Elise.

Elise is one of HNBAA's junior members, and has been doing very well in the club competitions.

Dean Hayes owns and operates
Sydney Sports Fishing Tours