The lure of structure

Many anglers have long been aware of the fish-holding characteristics of various forms of aquatic structure. Navigation markers, bridge pylons, moored boats, rock walls, fallen timber…you name it, our southern bays and estuaries are brimming with structure. However, with a seemingly endless list of options, knowing where to start can be difficult.

Whether it’s man-made artificial features or naturally formed habitats, structure activates a food chain by promoting the growth of weed, kelp and barnacles, which in turn attract all manner of crustaceans, fish fry, forage species and eventually larger predators. Regardless of the style of fishing, most of our time on the water inevitably revolves around some form of structure. An understanding of how to identify and target likely looking features is arguably an angler’s most valuable asset.

TARGET SPECIES

Having spent the past few years targeting bream on lures and soft plastics, I have learnt the importance of locating structure that provides shelter, shade, tidal flow, food supply and access to deep water. Fortunately, a range of estuary dwelling species including pinkie snapper, flathead, trevally, estuary perch and mulloway also frequent similar locations, which can lead to an interesting mixed bag.