Take 10 – Fishing World Q&A
1 Name and birthplace?
Ben Caddaye. Canberra born and bred.
2 When did you first start fishing?
I caught my first fish when I was four (in the late 1970s). I’ve been hooked ever since.
3 When did you start writing for Fisho?
About 8 or 9 years ago I think. My first article was published in about 2004 or 2005.
4 What’s your favourite form of fishing?
Light tackle estuary lure fishing for bream, flathead, estuary perch and bass.
5 What do you enjoy about writing for a fishing magazine?
I get a real buzz out of seeing my writing and photographs in print – probably because I know how much time and effort has gone into the process. It’s also satisfying to know that anglers around Australia, of all different skills levels and experience, are reading my work and, hopefully, enjoying it!
6 Who do you most admire in the fishing media and why?
I think Steve Starling is the best fishing writer out there. He’s a highly effective fishing communicator and his words seem to flow effortlessly. He’s the reason I first had a crack at fishing writing. If I’m half as good as him one day, I’ll be happy. I also like David Green’s turn of phrase…and Dave Rae’s a good read, too.
7 What do you reckon is the best or most satisfying article you’ve written for Fisho?
Tough question. My first article (Southern Comfort) about fishing the Moruya River was pretty satisfying. I also wrote one in about 2008 on estuary perch (Mouth from the South) which I was pretty happy with.
8 What camera gear do you use?
Very basic I’m afraid. Either a Canon 450D or Canon 600D (whichever one my wife lets me use) with stock standard 28-80mm lens.
9 What advice can you give anyone wanting to get into the fishing media?
Persist. It took me ages to establish myself as a regular writer. Constantly think about new ideas for potential articles and keep churning them out. And try to do something different. You’ll eventually get a bite. Oh, and take your camera with you everywhere you go!
10 What’s your favourite fishing destination?
It’s a dead-heat between the NSW far south coast and the far east Gippsland region of Victoria.
