SAFE beach launching sites are few and far between along the NSW coastline.

Tomaree Peninsula is fortunate to have two excellent sites carved out by nature; the northern corner of Boat Harbour Beach and the southern corner of Fingal Bay Beach.

Launching boats off the beach, into the open ocean, can be dodgy particularly if it is a bit breezy or a wave is hitting the beach.

Fortunately for commercial and recreational fishers the two local sites are very protected on most occasions.

For those new to the game of beach launching there are a few simple rules to bear in mind.

Firstly it is a really good idea to have the assistance of a mate who can hold the boat into the sea while you park the 4×4 higher up the beach.

Consider the tidal movement.

Low tides can cause issues in that the water is too shallow for you to lower the propeller.

I always prefer launching half tide in and returning half tide out.

The Fingal and ‘Boaty’ launching sites give quick access to the best local fishing reefs which, at this time of the year, are loaded up with cracker snapper.

The only launching alternatives are inside the Port at Shoal Bay, Little Beach or Soldiers Point.

These sites mean far greater travel time before you reach the red hot southern reefs.

If you have a tinny under 16 foot and a reliable 4×4, give beach launching a go.

Just be aware that things can go wrong.

Don’t back the trailer too far into the surf and don’t assume that 4×4 vehicles can’t get bogged.

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE