Big captures at MACK 10K – both of mackerel and valuable scientific data!

Onslow’s annual MACK 10K proved to be another smashing success this year, with plenty of mackie action on and off the water- including the most mackerel sampled in a single day as part of our Fishing for Science program.  

Hosted by Ashburton Anglers Fishing Club, the Pilbara’s popular single-species event attracted more than 300 fishers from across WA.

Check out the highlights from the mega mackie weekend below.

But by the end of day one, it wasn’t just the scales getting a work-out, with a record-breaking 116 Spanish mackerel handed to our Fishing for Science team and DPIRD researchers by competitors for sampling.  

The enthusiasm of competing anglers continued across the weekend, with otoliths (the ear bones), tissue samples and other biological information collected from more than 140 Spanish mackerel.

Fish captures = data capture 

Assisting DPRID researchers, the Recfishwest team helped – as part of our Fishing for Science program – supported by Woodside Energy – collected samples and measurements from Spanish mackerel brought through the weigh-in.  

These samples provide valuable information on the age, sex and growth of stocks in Pilbara waters and support the future management of mackerel stocks. 

Click here to find out more about our Fishing for Science program here  

This year’s competition welcomed a record 337 entrants and sold out its 100-boat cap in just 10 hours, with around two-thirds of competitors travelling from out of town. 

Ashburton Anglers Fishing Club President Cameron McGurk said the competition continues to grow each year, attracting fishers of all experience levels. 

“Spanish mackerel is a species that lots of recreational fishers can target and have often caught before, but it’s more about the accessibility of the event and the friendly atmosphere,” Cam said. 

Recfishwest Senior Operations Officer Sam Russell congratulated Ashburton Anglers for once again putting on a primo event and all the anglers providing fish for sampling demonstrating good stewardship for the fish stocks they value so highly.  

“To see more than 300 fishers getting behind MACK10K and a record 116 Spanish mackerel sampled on day one alone is an incredible result – not only for the competition, but for the valuable science that comes from it,” Sam said. 

“The event shows what can be achieved with everyone pulling together – anglers providing the fish for sampling and us working together with DPIRD to collect a large number of samples to assist with the stock assessment.  

“Ultimately, this kind of collaboration ensures better management of the stocks and plenty of these great fish for future generations to enjoy.”  

A community drawn together through fishing 

Ashburton Anglers Fishing Club secretary Suzanne Wilson said the competition’s big drawcard is its warm and welcoming atmosphere – which is also why it is such an important event in the Onslow social calendar.  

“Fishing is a hobby for so many people, and our event continues to focus on bringing the community and families together,” Suzanne said. 

 “As long as we keep that intimacy, connection and atmosphere, I think we’ll be successful for many years to come.” 

For fishers keen to get amongst the action next year, Cam’s advice is simple – get in quick. 

“This year we sold out our 100-boat cap in 10 hours,” Cam said. 

“So set your alarms and make sure you get in quick.” 

Keen to get amongst the MACK10K action next year? Keep an eye on the Ashburton Anglers Fishing Club Facebook page for registration details here.