11 Oct 2017
Is the Sunshine State home or the place you set off to when you're looking for warmer days? From the coast to Central Queensland, there are a variety of places for anglers to get their fix.
Rocky is soon to be the barramundi capital, with barra measuring in at over a metre long. Lake Moondarra is a favourite backdrop for not only fishing, but all types of adventuring: walking trails, birdwatching, and watersports.
While in some stocked lakes and dams you will need a permit, most places you can fish recreationally for free. Find out the ultimate fishing spots to get out to around Queensland.
Urangan Pier
Urangan Pier; Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
A popular fishing platform for families and seasoned anglers alike, Urangan Pier is a highlight of a holiday in Hervey Bay. Bream and flathead can be caught close to the edge of the pier, garfish makes a grand appearance during summer, and the outer edge offers ample opportunity to catch queenfish (if you've got the right equipment). It's a lucky spot to have in the area, with all sorts of species of fish swimming around the pier.
Stay at Discovery Parks - Hervey Bay and Discovery Parks - Fraser Coast
Calliope River
Calliope River; Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
The Calliope River, winding through Central Queensland and out into the Pacific Ocean at Gladstone, is a local fishing hotspot. Beecher Bar is the best place to set up and cast a line. Expect blue salmon, trevally, barramundi, whiting, bream, mangrove jack, and more. Pilchard is a better bait to use or fresh prawns, as it's something a bit more meaty for them to sinky their teeth into.
Stay at Discovery Parks - Tannum Sands
Fitzroy River
Fitzroy River and Barramundi; Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
You think beef's big here? Get a load of the barramundi you'll find around Rockhampton. Especially after floods, barramundi pour into the Fitzroy River. If you've got your eyes on the biggest prize, you will not be let down. The river is known for producing barra as long as a metre - and sometimes even bigger! Welcome to the soon to be barramundi capital of Australia.
Stay at Discovery Parks - Coolwaters, Yeppoon and Discovery Parks - Rockhampton
Lake Maraboon
Fairbairn Dam; Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland/Blink Photography
Lake Maraboon is a known spot to head out to for anglers in Central Queensland. While you can't fish or boat 200m upstream and 400m downstream of the Fairbairn Dam wall, the greater lake area is prime for barramundi and yellowbelly fishing. Marraboon is also stocked with cod, redclaw crayfish, silver perch, and bass. Enjoy a full day here; scoff down your BBQ lunch at the picnic area, and cool down with a swim before the sun sets.
Stay at Discovery Parks - Blackwater and Discovery Parks - Emerald
Lake Moondarra
Lake Moondarra; Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Every year in October, Lake Moondarra is chock-a-block with fishermen keen to win in the fishing classic. But this is a year-round fishing destination, perfect for children and adults alike. Rainbowfish, archerfish, perch, and bream are a few of the 20 different types of species that can be caught. The locals of Mt Isa love this getaway of total peace. Peacocks pitter-patter past as you look out over the beautifully blue lake.
Stay at Discovery Parks - Mount Isa and Discovery Parks - Argylla, Mount Isa
Ready, set, fish! Book your stay today at one of our Queensland parks for your next fishing holiday.
