Born from the river. Built for the catch.

Born on the Banks of the Hawkesbury


SillyFish creator Dean Hanckel was born, bred, and raised on the banks of the beautiful Hawkesbury River, in Sydney’s northwest, NSW — a place that has shaped who he is and everything he does. From a young age, Dean was out on the water with his dad, learning the rhythm of the river and developing a lifelong passion for fishing.


Around the year 2000, he began experimenting with artificial baits, chasing that perfect combination of shape, movement, and balance that could tempt even the wariest fish. Over time, that curiosity grew into an obsession with how lures perform — how every subtle detail changes the way they swim, flash, and strike in the water.


The Hawkesbury gave Dean more than fishing. It’s where he learned to water ski, where he trained and competed, and where, in 1996, he won Australia’s most iconic water-ski race — the Bridge to Bridge — outright, breaking the existing record by more than three and a half minutes. That experience taught him precision, persistence, and respect for the river — lessons that guide every lure he designs.


Since early 2022, Dean has spent countless hours designing, shaping, testing, and refining SillyFish Lures — first on the Hawkesbury River, and then across a range of waterways throughout Australia. Each location has helped fine-tune his designs for different species, conditions, and water types — ensuring every SillyFish lure performs wherever you fish.


At SillyFish, it’s not about making just another lure — it’s about creating something that carries a story, born from the river and built for anglers who fish with heart, patience, and purpose.


Highlights

1 Founder: Dean Hanckel

2 Home waters:  Hawkesbury River, Sydney’s northwest, NSW

3 The Hawkesbury River runs through Dean’s veins

4 Lure design & testing:  Developed on the Hawkesbury and tested across Australia

5 Core values: Precision: • Passion • Persistence


Born on the Hawkesbury. Proven across Australia.

FAQ's

Looking for answers about SillyFish Lures? You’re in the right place! Check out our most frequently asked questions here.

  • What makes SillyFish Lures different?

    SillyFish Lures are designed by a lifelong angler with decades of experience, ensuring they're easy to use and deliver consitent results.

  • What species can I catch with the Mirage 55?

    The Mirage 55 has now successfully landed 20+ different species in it's relatively short existence. Species caught include Flathead ,Bream, Whiting, Barramundi, Queenfish, Mangrove Jack, Tailor, Giant Trevally &  Jewfish, just to name a few.

  • How do I maintain my SillyFish Lures?

    Rinse them with fresh water after use, especially if used in saltwater, and store them in a dry place.

  • Where can I purchase SillyFish Lures?

    You can buy them directly from our website from the Lures Page.


    Or they can now be found at DOUG BURT'S TACKLE WORLD - 11/8 CENTRE VIEW DR, BIGGERA WATERS, GOLD COAST, QLD.


    More stockists coming soon.


  • How can I share my catch using SillyFish Lures?

    We’d love to see your success! Tag us on social media or email your photos to dean@sillyfishlures.com.au.

  • Do you offer shipping within Australia?

    Yes, we ship Australia-wide. Shipping details are available at checkout.

  • Do you plan to release more lure models?

    Yes, this is just the beginning ! We’re constantly working on new designs to expand our range and target more species.

  • Can I use SillyFish Lures in saltwater and freshwater?

    Silly fish lures are designed with specific fish species and water type in mind, so you can choose the lure that best suits you whether that be saltwater or freshwater!