The Hi Tide Podcast for Saturday, July 18th, 2026
In this episode of Hi Tide, Grant Boyden is handling things behind the scenes on the tech desk, while Alan Blake and Kieran Reekie step up to guide you through the latest conditions. 🌊 On the Water Reports Hawkesbury & Pittwater: Excellent jewfish action around the bridges, with a massive 1.7-metre jewfish landed at the rail bridge. Salmon are thick around Barrenjoey, and flathead are biting near the Ocean Street Bridge. Coffs Harbour: Snapper are firing around the islands and the lighthouse, alongside reports of pearl perch, longtail tuna, and good jewfish numbers on the beaches. Batemans Bay & Tuross Lake: Good snapper showing up in the shallows, while a spectacular 1.35-metre jewfish was caught earlier in the week. Canberra & Tamworth: Murrumbidgee River is clearing up nicely with a meter-plus cod caught on a surface lure. Soft plastics are doing the damage for bass at Glenbawn Dam. 🎙️ Special Guests & Local Experts Laurie McEnally (South West Rocks): Shares deep-water blue-eye trevalla tactics and notes a welcome comeback of trag (teraglin) in the 105 to 125-metre zones. Laurie also issues a vital warning about safely navigating the current whale migration. Pete "Swannie" (Central Coast): The 60-year angling veteran breaks down why you shouldn't pack your gear away for winter. He shares his secrets for chasing big winter whiting and blackfish in Narara Creek using squirtworms, and blackfish tactics at Putty Beach and MacMasters Beach. ⚙️ Tech Tip: Outboard Impeller Maintenance Alan breaks down the pitfalls of DIY impeller changes. Modern outboards feature tighter tolerances and preloaded shafts that require precision. Before you try changing your water pump, check your manual or consult an expert to avoid burning through a new neoprene impeller in under 20 hours. ⚠️ Safety First at the Boat Ramp The team highlights the dangers of slippery boat ramps during winter low tides. Following a series of severe falls and injuries recently, make sure to watch your step, wear appropriate footwear, and always put on your lifejacket when conditions get rough.