In this episode of The Bream Fishing Project, we’re back at one of my all-time favourite arenas — Forster — to recap Round 1 of the 2025 Daiwa BREAM Series, proudly presented by ABT and sponsored by X-Braid. With the Manning River round cancelled due to weather, Forster stepped up to host the first of two back-to-back events across June 4–5 — and the fishing didn’t disappoint.

We kick things off with Sam Raco, who took 3rd place in the non-boating division with 2.865 kg. After a slow start and no fish until 11 a.m. on Day 1, Sam found success working racks with Outback Breamer muss lures and Bait Junkie Risky Critters, before pulling a critical late-session upgrade on a Cranka Crab that bumped him into the top three by just 30 grams.

But the standout performance of the round came from Mark Healey, who delivered a commanding win in the boating division with 10 fish for 6.975 kg — more than a full kilo ahead of second place. Mark overcame major hurdles just to compete — including mechanical issues during pre-fish that forced him to borrow a boat — yet still produced a flawless two-day campaign. He leaned on years of experience, precise crab presentations, and thoughtful spot management. His Day 1 included the big bream of the event, a 1.485 kg unit that helped secure his overnight lead. Day 2 saw him nearly crack 4 kg, sealing the win in dominant fashion.

Healey breaks down his winning approach:

• Shimano Expride 6'10" Medium Light

• Vanford 2500HG

• 6 lb Sunline Castaway braid and 8–10 lb Ocea fluorocarbon leader

• Heavy Cranka Crabs in UV Olive for maximum line contact and drift control in tight structure

Also featured:

• 🥇 Ethan Glover – 1st place non-boater (3.470 kg), landing quality upgrades on crabs and rolling crankbaits

• 🥉 Paul Langley – 3rd place boater (5.475 kg), building bags with Gulp Crabbies and finesse grubs

• 🥈 Steven Pryke – 2nd place boater (5.820 kg), combining crankbaits, plastics, and a new reef find via LiveScope — plus an unplanned swim mid-session!

This is one of the most detailed breakdowns we’ve had — full of smart tactical choices, late-session clutch moments, and some truly quality bags.

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