PHP Warning: Use of undefined constant VBA_SCRIPT - assumed 'VBA_SCRIPT' (this will throw an Error in a future version of PHP) in ..../includes/functions_navigation.php(802) : eval()'d code on line 1 First solo crossing of Gold Coast seaway
Tomorrow morning I am considering my first crossing of the Gold Coast seaway in my own boat. I have been over a few times with mates/charters, but am still keen to get some tips.
I have set my wind limit at 5-10 knots, as I am only going out in a Quintrex Coaster Runner 490 (about 5.2 metres with the maxi-transom inc). Is this realistic? I am looking to hit some of the closer fishing grounds, as I don't think this is a boat I want to get caught in too far offshore if the wind turns!
I have watched the guys controlling the boats when I have been out, to see how they handle the crossing, but would appreciate any advice. Also, if anyone has an idea of some decent places to gather some bait on the way out and do some fishing not too far out that would be appreciated!
I've been out the seaway in my 4.1m poly(which is basically a river punt) hundreds of times, you shouldn't have any trouble this weekend, the swell is only a meter or so and the wind forecast is only 5-10 knots. When the conditions aren't quite as good the important thing to keep in mind is the tide. When the swell picks up a run in tide is good, a run out tide is bad. Stay away from the south wall in a big swell it breaks there, cross in the middle of the seaway then turn right about 150m out and you'll be fine. Always stop and check it out first before you cross.
There are bait grounds about 1km south east of the seaway on the 60ft line, just look for the other boats.
This is a webcam that covers the seaway, worth a look if your in doubt.
Thanks! The last time I was out there with a mate in his 18 footer, there was an enormous swell. It wasn't breaking, but after a couple of hours of great fishing we were ready to come back in. We had a guy in a tiny little tinny pull up beside us and show us two of the most enormous jewies I'll ever see...
I don't think I've caught a decent fish since that day... Unfortunately, my mates GPS died and he did not have a record of his GPS marks, so I'm working off the points I got from the GPS handbook.
mate i go out straight through the middle you shouldnt have a problem on the weekend little swell have got a mark bout 12k out if you want to go that far pm if you want it.i find the biggest problem down there is the swell from the big cruisers heading out as well
cheers rosco
I have been out wide(ish) in my 3.7m tinny......I learnt the hard way to not come back in on an outgoing tide..., try and time it so you cross at the very top `or` very bottom of the tides and you'll be right, those pressure waves can get quite big and its very un-nerving especially in a smaller boat.
Been through the seaway plenty of times in my 4.2m tinnie. One a forecast like the one this weekend you'll be fine mate, if unsure follow someone in or out.
Last time we were out of the Pin it was forecast 5-10's but ended up being a solid 15+ all day. It was pretty surprising to see a bloke solo in a 4.5m open tinnie 31km N/NE of the Seaway! A bit too keen I think.
Troy, for future referenc, and to enhance your skills in bar crossing, book in and do Bill Cortens course on bar crossing. It is in a much bigger boat than yours, but will give you some fantastic info, and confidence, in handling your boat during bar crossings. I just wish someone was doing this sort of thing when I first started crossing bars 35 years ago, I had to learn the hard way. Meanwhile listen to the other guys here, all their advice is relevant and will save you from heartache.
Reply With Quote
