The Angler’s Edge with Fish Headz Noosa
‘There’s plenty o’ fish in the sea’ or so the saying goes. But if you have unsuccessfully tried to fish the waters of Noosa you might not believe this statement. Deb Caruso meets the local businessman who is passionate about building a strong fishing community – and helping others to catch plenty o’ fish in the process!
Grant Pawson, or ‘Pawso’ as he is affectionately known, is a rare breed. He is a passionate – and very successful – fisherman who doesn’t mind sharing some of his secret fishing spots so long as he is building a stronger community and more sustainable fishing culture in the process.
Together with his wife Nicola, they have built a booming signage business with Sunrise Creative signage and graphics studio over the past 25 years.
With more than 40 years in the industry, you’ve probably seen countless examples of their work every day and never even realised – from vehicle signage to business cards, brochures, electronic media and communications.
Grant’s love of fishing and his business collided a few years ago.
“We have a passion for the great outdoors and for fishing our magnificent country,” Grant said. “This is what drives us. Our clothing is manufactured in Queensland with a UVP 50+ rating, they feel smooth and cool with moisture wicking, antibacterial properties.
Not content with just supplying the angler with the best gear, Grant has built a community with Fish Headz Noosa which has grown into several streams including:
– Fish Headz Community which runs online and physical fishing competitions (such as Croctober for the biggest Flathead!) and connects local businesses with the fishing community. There is a regular calendar of events with signature events booked out well in advance. The Youth Development Program, Futuregenz, aims to engage the next generation.
– Fish Headz Oceanic is the Australian-made clothing and apparel line that also offers custom orders with branding for clubs and organisations.
– Fish Headz Rec Rewards 100 Club provides rewards for recreational fishers with an 11-month online and Australia-wide competition with a membership fee and cash and product prizes up for grabs. It is limited to 100 anglers and run by a smartphone app.
– Fish Headz Noosa River Charters will commence in 2023 with a brand new, luxury, custom six-metre centre console boat. There are plans for two charters per week: Welcome Wednesdays for the serious angler where Grant will take you to the secret locations he has discovered over the last decade; and Fishing and Beer Fridays with beverage partner Land & Sea. Private charters are also available with all bookings for groups of up to four people.
– SUNTAG is a not-for-profit research and sustainability organisation of which. He has been tagging fish for more than three years with some interesting re-captures. Fish Headz also has a tagging group with information on how to join available on the website.
While Grant says there are about 80% men and 20% women, they encourage broader participation and work closely with the WFC (Women’s Fishing Comp).
“There were three women in the Top Ten results for Croctober out of 90 anglers,” he said.
This eager angler also has a YouTube channel with guest speakers providing reports every Friday. With the new charters about to launch and Grant’s passion, knowledge and connection, it might be time to throw your line in and join an exciting and active community. Visit www.noosafishheadz.com.au
