A metre-length flattie is considered the holy grail for many estuary anglers, but unlike metre sized barra, kingies, jewies or other popular sportfish, a 100cm-plus “croc” is a much rarer fish to catch.
Last week, Castaway Estuary Fishing Charters guide Patrick Linehan landed a true trophy-size dusky flathead, measuring 105cm. The giant flathead was caught using a 200mm unweighted paddle tail soft plastic (8 inch Keitech Easy Shiner) while casting along the sandflats of the Camden Haven River, just south of Port Macquarie.
Patrick told Fishing World he spotted the fish rise off the bottom in clear, shallow water and crunch the lure about 30-metres away. After a relatively quick fight, the big “croc” was carefully steered into the landing net wielded by keen fishing mate, Kieran Hill.
Patrick released the record-size flathead and said it swam away in top condition after a couple of quick photos. This true “once in a lifetime” capture begs the question: Is this the biggest flathead ever caught in Australia? Get in touch with us if you’ve seen one bigger, but don’t forget your evidence!
Patrick Linehan is a professional fishing guide – specialising in targeting big flathead and mulloway – at Castaway Estuary Fishing Charters based in Port Macquarie, NSW. Get in touch here: www.castawayfishing.com.au.
