Kings way up the harbour

[kurtisjohnthomas]

I coach rowing, so I am on the Parramatta river 5 days a week and get to see alot.

The last two weeks I have seen pelagics right up the river.

Last week I saw Bonito in Tarban Creek and near the Drummoyne boat ramp, but today was the highlight.

Just off Searls monument (between Abbotsford Wharf and Gladesville Bridge), there was a reasonable size school busting up on the surface. I knew it was kings as soon as I saw the splashes, but drove over to check it out. Rats to about 60cm and not that afraid of the boat. Just wish I has the boat.

I think it's amazing that we are seeing them so far west of the Bridge. The river must be getting so much cleaner, but can imagine this wet weather will push them back out.

[SAfisho]

it has nothing to do with the water, the harbour is still just as filthy as ever. although a good amount of rain will drive them east (although that's mainly due to a drop in salinity more than anything else). the kings and other predators will just follow the baitfish, always following the baitfish.

[AndrewNR]

it has nothing to do with the water, the harbour is still just as filthy as ever. although a good amount of rain will drive them east (although that's mainly due to a drop in salinity more than anything else). the kings and other predators will just follow the baitfish, always following the baitfish.

increase in fish is for a reason. No commercial fishing and better water quality (still plastic bags etc getting washed in)

[fishmaniac]

Last year schools of kingfish were venturing up as far as cabarita. Most certainly the banning of commercial fishing has led to an abundance of bait for them to feast on.

As for water quality. It has improved a little bit due to the fact that there is no more legal dumping into the river.

But it's by no means significantly better. You should see the amount of dissolved lead, tin and other heavy metals in the water in some areas!!! I started experimenting on ocean water, tap water etc because i thought there was something wrong with my equipment!!! Its all in the muddy bottoms of the river and will take 100s if not 1000s of years to dissipate without dredging it all.