TV personality and star of Fish’n with Mates, Al McGlashan, has spent three days scoping out the fishing scene in Mackay, and being looked after by local hospitality.

McGlashan, who was in the region as part of a Queensland Tourism venture to promote the net- free fishing zone, said he was impressed with the quality of fish found in The Mackay Region.

“I’ve never fished Mackay before and I’ve always mentioned to mates that I’d love to travel here.”

The crew fished around Rabbit Island (nearby Newry Island), which is approximately half an hour north of Mackay. McGlashan said they were chasing barramundi, queenfish and some inshore species using fresh plastics.

“To up the stakes a bit for the show, we are also doing a bit of underwater stuff as well,” he said last week.

McGlashan is a well-known fisherman who not only hosts his own fishing show, but contributes to magazines around the world including Modern Fishing, Outback Mag and Club Marine. He writes a weekly column in Sydney’s Daily Telegraph and has authored several books. He’s a keen photographer and his images have been featured on the covers of international magazines.

McGlashan said he believes the net-free fishing zone will prove to be positive for the local fishing scene in The Mackay Region.

“I’m not against commercial fishing but everywhere in the world where they’ve bought in the net-free fishing zone, the fishing has gone through the roof,” he said.

“It’s also great for recreational fishing and tourism; it gives people the confidence that they can go out for a great day of fishing and come home with something to show for it.”

McGlashan and his crew enjoyed the hospitality of the Big 4 Mackay Marine Tourist Park on Harbour Road, as well as some local fishing tips from Nashy’s Compleat Angler.

Scott Rebgetz, owner of the Big 4 Mackay Marine Tourist Park, said he was looking forward to seeing The Mackay Region featured on Fish’n with Mates.