In Search of a "Grand Slam"

Notice that the words GRAND SLAM are in inverted commas... So much hype has been thrown about attaining a Grand Slam at many of the popular lodge fishing destinations that I thought that the humble Fly Chucker (aka yours truly) should have that same thrill while still being chained to a desk and a schedule.

In keeping with the concept that a Grand Slam consists of catching 3 of the prevalent sport fish of the locale - and that a super grand slam constituted of 4 prevalent game fish- I came to a decision that a Bream, Flathead and Tailor would constitute a grand slam for our southern Estuary systems here in Sub Urban Sydney. Of course catching a Whiting Tailor and Flathead would also Constitute a Slam. Following in this vein, it would follow that 4 species would make a super slam (think of the flats slam and really lower your expectations- I needed something to challenge myself) I had to make it achievable but still a challenge so I decided that all species had to be landed in one session in order for it to be considered a slam.

A lot of words, but hey, at least it's something to strive for.

Having conceived this plan, it was time to go fish. My initial efforts-and efforts till the writing of this post- have met with 2 species a day at best. However, these attempts have made me refine my techniques to better my chances of reaching my goal. From redeveloping my fly (yes I only fish THE ONE fly now) to adjusting my retrieve, I dare to say that I feel that I am getting somewhere nearer to understanding my local estuary. As yet, I've managed to land, in no particular order, Bream, Flathead, Tailor, Whiting and trevally with the one fly and retrieve.

Unbelievable but true. Truth be told, I am most happy with being able to catch a trevally on the fly rod. More so that it has been in my local estuary. This is due to the fact that I have never been able to even locate a single trevally in a location other than those near the harbour.

More on them in the next post.