The Innisfail Billfish tournament wrapped up yesterday, and I should have the official report a little later, and the Weipa Billfish Tournament finishes today (it’s a public holiday here in Queensland today).  But outside the tournaments, the fishing goes on as usual.

Boats here in Cairns are still picking up the odd little black marlin although the multi-hookup days seem to be over as the juvies head south.  Capt. Rob Bonser’s Pirate made another first time angler very happy with this first marlin for 7 year old James Pennisi!  Capt. Simon Carosi on Afishionado put in two hours outside Fitzroy for another first this time for angler Garry Sholl.  And Capt. Scott “Bat” Taunton on Valhalla put in another day in the same area for a 2 from 3 on Saturday as well.

On the heavy tackle side – Capt. Brett Goetze on Reel Chase put in some time in the middle Ribbons yesterday ending up with 2 from 4 for his guests from Melbourne.  Brett says that both fish were in the 2-300lb range, and that one of the fish they jumped off was a real nice one.  Good to hear more reports of the big ones making themselves known. Another few boats left Cairns over the weekend so hopefully more consistent reports coming through soon.