Fishing Australia

Aired on 27th September 2008

In the final episode of 2008, Fishing Australia host, Rob Paxevanos lands one of the biggest bonefish ever recorded in Australian waters on a fly when he revisits the small seaside town of Exmouth in Western Australia.

Bonefish are a rare tropical species that elite fly anglers search for around the world and in this episode, Fishing Australia host, Rob Paxevanos lands the biggest ever recorded in Australian waters on a fly when he revisits the small seaside town of Exmouth in Western Australia.

It’s been Rob’s childhood dream to have a crack at catching a bonefish and when he hooks this world class ‘bone’ the atmosphere is intense.

“You will not believe the speed and power of this fish!  It just took off literally burning my hand as the fly line ripped out some 50 meters in just a couple of seconds. I have never had to concentrate so hard in my life!” Rob says.

After an epic battle, the fish is beached and measured in at 85 cm, and some 12 pounds. A 70cm long 10 pounder is considered to be the fish of a lifetime and many anglers have unsuccessfully spent tens of thousands of dollars trying to join the ‘10 pound bonefish club’.

“Bonefish are not as big as some other glamour species, but they have incredible power and pound for pound they would make a marlin blush,” Rob laughed.

“They’re also capable of speeds in excess of 70 kilometres an hour, cripes, Usain Bolt peaks at around 40 kilometres per hour!”

The thrill is getting close enough to cast at one - the bonefish is one of the foxiest fish in the sea, reflected in its scientific name Albula Vulpes, which literally means ‘white fox’.

“Bonefishing takes place in some of the most stunning tropical destinations in the world.  Move over Belize, Bermuda, Florida Keys and Christmas Island; Exmouth is the new Bonefish Capital of the World,” remarked Rob.

To top it off, Rob gets together with Exmouth local, Jenny Gates, for a Queenfish session to remember on his trusted Hobie kayak.

Memorable fishing not to be missed!