Fishing, Family, and Legendary Flattys
Fishing isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifeline that boosts mental health, fosters social connections, and creates unforgettable memories with family and mates.
Growing up in New South Wales with some serious health issues, I couldn’t play sports or swim like the other kids. But when I discovered fishing, it flipped my world upside down. I fell in love with every aspect of it—trying out different skills and techniques in both salt and fresh water. There’s nothing quite like soaking in the tranquility of nature while learning about the local culture.
Everyone finds their own joy in fishing, and if it’s not your thing, I hope you’ve got something else that brings you happiness. We all need an outlet!
As spring and summer roll in, anglers along the east coast start buzzing with excitement for the Aussie natives—bass and cod. There’s nothing better than watching the mist lift at dawn or the shadows stretch at dusk while waiting for that heart-pounding moment when a surface lure gets smashed. The thrill of the “boof” is unbeatable! With stunning mountain backdrops, wild landscapes, and wildlife, every trip is an adventure worth remembering. If you’re a keen fisho and haven’t experienced this, you’re missing out!
Sharing fishing adventures with family and friends is one of nature’s greatest gifts. I’ve got a special family story that really stands out:
After a successful weekend on the water, the fam and I were enjoying breakfast with mates when I got a notification from the @reelitinflatheadchallenge. My entry for a smaller flatty didn’t count because I hadn’t shown the code on the catch mat. I had to make one last dash that afternoon to catch five decent flatheads before time ran out!
I hit the water again, casting for what felt like ages, when I finally got a solid tug on the line. I hooked a decent flatty, but it dove straight into some weeds and got stuck. I could feel the fish still on, but I had to act fast.
I pulled up the anchor and moved closer, spotting a beast in the 70cm range through the water. I was fully committed to this fish—my number five for the bag limit! I tossed the anchor back into the surf to pivot the boat, feeling the tide surge past.
If that anchor didn’t hold, I’d be in a world of hurt, headed straight for some rocks. I’m sure the folks on the break wall were laughing their heads off at the sight of this bloke in a boat!
Without thinking, I jumped into the water—waist-deep with rod in hand—and wrestled that flatty out of the weeds. Now came the real challenge: getting back to the boat while battling the current, one hand on the rod and the other clutching the fish.
Miraculously, I made it back on board without losing my prize! I snapped a quick photo for the competition and gave the flathead a revival before letting it swim away. That flatty measured a healthy 66cm!
And wouldn’t you know it—just ten minutes later, I hooked up again! This time, I landed an even better specimen at 73cm. Turns out I didn’t need to take a swim after all!
I was stoked to finish my score of the five best flatheads for the online competition, and even happier that all the fish swam away healthy—just like me! What a legendary adventure, and I hope someone on that seawall caught it on camera!
Being on the water, fishing, exploring, and making memories like that is why we all love it! The experiences from childhood to adulthood deepen our appreciation for this incredible activity.
Sometimes, it’s hard to put into words, but the respect we hold for our ecosystems and waterways reflects how we treat this beautiful environment. It’s our duty to support the next generation in understanding and respecting our marine world. We must fish smarter, take only what we need, and ensure these ecosystems continue to thrive.
Brice Hayward is a Black Magic Tackle Ambassador, and proud indigenous Wiradjuri man, living on Birpai country on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales with his two kids and beautiful wife.
He has fished all his life and loves everything the water provides in both the fresh and saltwater. He is the founder of ‘Fishin4Pics’ running school holiday fishing programs and adventures for youth.
The programs teach the fundamentals of fishing and important lessons about sustainable fishing. Additionally, I Brice runs multiple fishing competitions based on having fun and bringing fishos together to network and learn about new species or areas.
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