Some Interesting Fishing Locations in Tasmania (Australia)
Tasmania Fishing Spots – Looking for the perfect spot to cast a line in Tasmania? I’ve compiled a list of intriguing fishing locations that are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Clarence Point (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Tranquil Riverfront Haven
Clarence Point, situated on the western bank of the Tamar River, is a small residential settlement nestled within a farming area. The picturesque location offers stunning river views, with cargo ships passing by en route to Bell Bay. The community is comprised of approximately 300 full-time residents, a number that swells on weekends with visitors.
A Retirement Paradise
The majority of Clarence Point’s residents are retirees, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The presence of very few children further contributes to the tranquil ambiance. However, the town is experiencing rapid growth, with new construction and renovations underway.
Navigating Growth (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
This rapid development, however, poses challenges. The single, narrow road leading in and out of Clarence Point lacks a footpath, making traffic congestion a growing concern. The reliance on tank water and septic or biocycle systems for sanitation is another notable characteristic of the community.
A Hub for Recreation
Visitors from nearby areas often frequent Clarence Point’s boat ramp, enjoying fishing from its pontoon. A dedicated residents’ group convenes at the local hall, fostering a sense of community.
Accessing Amenities
Clarence Point lacks shops and services. Residents must travel to nearby towns for essential goods and amenities. Beaconsfield, located a 15-minute drive away, provides a range of services, including shops, recreation facilities, and comprehensive medical facilities.
Diverse Nearby Options (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Beauty Point, another nearby town, offers closer proximity to hotels, cafes, a marina, and select shops. For a wider range of shopping, entertainment, and services, residents can journey to Launceston, approximately 50 minutes away.
A Climate with Character
Clarence Point is known for its windy conditions, with north-westerlies dominating the prevailing winds. This aspect adds another layer of character to the charming coastal community.
Cloudy Bay Lagoon (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Hidden Gem at the Southern Tip
Cloudy Bay, nestled at the southern end of Bruny Island, is a highly acclaimed beach in Tasmania. While its accessibility means it doesn’t attract the same crowds as Adventure Bay, those who venture there are richly rewarded with a serene and stunning natural environment.
A Tranquil Escape
Cloudy Bay offers a peaceful retreat, boasting picturesque views of lush bushland and shimmering waters. The minimal presence of buildings or human civilization enhances the feeling of seclusion. Popular among Hobart residents, Cloudy Bay is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering activities like camping and surfing.
Reaching the Bay: A Scenic Journey (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
To reach Cloudy Bay, travelers embarking from Hobart must first drive south for 53 kilometers to the Bruny Island ferry terminal in Kettering. A 40-minute ferry ride across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel transports visitors and their vehicles to the island. From the ferry terminal, a 49-kilometer drive along Lennon Road, which transitions into Bruny Island Main Road, leads to Cloudy Bay.
Access by Land or Sea
The Cloudy Bay campsite can only be accessed by driving five kilometers along the beach or by foot. While some sections of the beach feature firm sand allowing two-wheel drive vehicles to traverse, the risk of getting stuck exists. Four-wheel drive vehicles are strongly recommended.
Pleasant Climate with Considerations
Cloudy Bay boasts some of Tasmania’s most pleasant weather, avoiding the extremes of the state’s southern regions. The northern end of the beach can be windy, while the southern end often enjoys calmer conditions. It’s important to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing, as sunburn is a possibility. Swimming is enjoyable during summer, but a wetsuit is recommended outside of the warmer months.
A Paradise for Camping and Recreation (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Cloudy Bay offers a unique experience of being in a secluded paradise. Its camping grounds are a popular choice for visitors seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle. Cloudy Bay Beach provides a variety of surfing conditions, with the northern end favored by surfers and the southern end offering calm waters ideal for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding.
Camping Options: The Pines and the Southern Campsite
Cloudy Bay offers two distinct camping options. The Pines, located at the northern end, is popular with surfers and those without four-wheel drive vehicles. This basic, free campsite is situated behind the dunes. The southern campsite, regarded as the better option, offers a more spacious and sheltered experience, nestled behind the beach amidst large gum trees.
Campsite Amenities and Regulations
Both campsites provide pit toilets and limited access to non-treated water. Fires are permitted only in designated fireplaces, but fire bans are often in place during warmer months. A camp stove is recommended. Bookings are not required, and campsites are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The southern campsite incurs a small fee payable in cash via a deposit box.
Coles Bay Jetty (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Bay of Natural Beauty
Coles Bay, nestled beneath the majestic pink-granite peaks of the Hazards range, offers stunning views overlooking the serene Great Oyster Bay. This picturesque location captivates visitors with its blend of rugged beauty and tranquil waters.
Exploring from the Water and Air
For those seeking an immersive experience, Coles Bay offers a range of water-based activities. Sailing, eco-cruising, and kayaking provide unparalleled views of secluded beaches and the dramatic Hazards range. Alternatively, a scenic flight offers a more elevated perspective, allowing for a comprehensive view of the landscape.
A Haven for Hikers (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
On land, Coles Bay provides a network of well-maintained walking trails catering to all levels of fitness and interest. From leisurely 10-minute beach strolls to challenging multi-day hikes around the peninsula, there’s a trail for every adventure.
Wildlife and Botanical Delights
Coles Bay is a sanctuary for wildlife, offering opportunities to spot pademelons, echidnas, wombats, white-bellied sea eagles, and wallabies. For nature enthusiasts, a wealth of native orchids blooms in abundance during October and November, adding a splash of vibrant color to the landscape.
Accommodation and Dining for Every Taste
Coles Bay caters to a diverse range of travelers, offering accommodation options from luxurious retreats to caravan and camping facilities. Gourmet dining experiences complement the array of accommodation choices. Camping within Freycinet National Park is incredibly popular during the summer holidays, with site ballots held in early August to ensure fair allocation.
Accessing Coles Bay (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Coles Bay is conveniently located a 2-hour and 30-minute drive (192km) northeast of Hobart and a 2-hour and 10-minute drive (173km) southeast of Launceston.
Local Tips for an Enhanced Experience
For a unique adventure, don a pair of waders and embark on an oyster-harvesting expedition with Oyster Bay Tours. Explore the lesser-known Honeymoon Bay, a tranquil alternative to the popular Wineglass Bay. Finally, indulge in breathtaking views and refreshing beverages at Geographe Restaurant and Espresso Bar.
Cooee Point (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Diverse Coastal Landscape
Cooee Point, a prominent geographical feature in Tasmania, boasts a unique coastal landscape. East of the point, a 2-kilometer wide embayment stretches northward, showcasing a diverse range of features. The western half of the embayment features three small beaches, while the eastern half is dominated by rock and rock flats.
Beach T 1084: A Steep and Exposed Shore
Beach T 1084, situated at the eastern base of Cooee Point, extends 500 meters southeast to a low, sloping dolerite point. Facing northeast, this beach is moderately exposed to east through north waves, which generate strong surges along its steep high tide beach. An intertidal low tide terrace stretches 100-150 meters seaward, gradually transitioning into rock flats as the tide recedes.
Accessibility and Infrastructure (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Cooee Point Road borders most of the beach, providing access to the area. A narrow reserve with a boat ramp is located towards the northern end of the beach, facilitating water-based activities. Cooee Creek flows across the southern end of the beach, with the Bass Highway situated right behind.
Beach Characteristics and Hazards
Beach T 1084 stretches for 0.5 kilometers and is categorized as moderately hazardous, earning a 4/10 rating. The beach’s steep incline, strong wave action, and transition to rock flats at low tide warrant caution for visitors.
Cremorne Narrows (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Land of Ancient Heritage
The area encompassing Pipe Clay Lagoon, now known as Cremorne Narrows, was once part of the Moomairemener aboriginal homeland. This vast territory extended along the eastern shore of the Derwent River, encompassing areas from South Arm in the south to the Jordan River in the north, and reaching eastward to Pittwater and Coal River.
Early European Encounters
The Moomairemener people were believed to be part of the larger Oyster Bay clan, who inhabited the western side of the Derwent River. The Cremorne area played a significant role in the early days of European settlement in Tasmania.
A Stormy Arrival and a Determined Expedition (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
In February 1804, the ships ‘Ocean’ and ‘Lady Nelson’ sailed from Port Phillip Bay to Van Dieman’s Land, aiming to join Lieutenant John Bowen’s settlement at Risdon Cove. A severe gale struck the ‘Ocean’ as it entered Storm Bay, preventing its passage up the Derwent River. Captain John Mertho sought shelter in Frederick Henry Bay, anchoring off Pipe Clay Head. Lieutenant Governor Collins, eager to contact the settlers at Risdon, dispatched a six-man expedition led by Lieutenant Edward Lord to deliver the news.
A Challenging Journey and a Timely Rescue
Guided by Matthew Flinders’ map, the expedition embarked on a 14-mile journey. They crossed the narrow neck of land near Lauderdale, following the coast along the northern edge of Ralph’s Bay. After facing difficulties and depleting their supplies, they were relieved to encounter Lieutenant Moore in a boat. Hearing their gunshots, Moore sailed to shore and safely transported them to Risdon Cove.
Exploring the Land and Its Bounty (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
While waiting for favorable winds, the crew of the ‘Ocean’ explored the surrounding area. They ventured into the saltwater Pipe Clay Lagoon and the freshwater lagoon nearby, discovering a rich abundance of birdlife. Oysters were harvested from the lagoon, and a party of 17 native people was sighted.
A Departure After a Week of Exploration
The ‘Ocean’ remained anchored for several days, facing strong winds and heavy rain. The officers and officials kept themselves occupied with further excursions ashore, gathering more oysters and observing the local flora and fauna. Finally, on Wednesday morning, with calmer conditions, the ‘Ocean’ weighed anchor and set sail for Risdon Cove, arriving on February 15, 1804.
Cunninghams Jetty (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Landmark on the Waterfront
Cunningham Pier, a prominent structure gracing Geelong’s waterfront, holds a significant place in the city’s history. Originally known as Railway Pier, it opened in the mid-1850s, serving as a vital hub for cargo transportation, with rail lines used for loading and unloading.
Transitioning from Cargo to Entertainment
As Geelong’s port modernized in the post-war era, larger ships transitioned to Corio Quay, diminishing the pier’s commercial use. Though it continued to see some commercial activity until the 1970s, it ultimately fell into disuse, becoming a dormant landmark. However, in 1989, local entrepreneurs recognized its potential and transformed the green cargo shed into a venue for New Year on the Pier, a massive event that transformed the shed into a bustling nightclub.
Transformation and Reimagination (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
The pier was sold in the mid-1990s, leading to the removal of the green cargo shed and the construction of the iconic white structure that stands today. Island Trader opened Smorgy’s, a popular restaurant featuring a buffet and an animatronic floor show.
Ambitious Plans and Cruise Ship Dreams
In 2002, plans were announced for a massive residential development, including apartments, a hotel, a convention center, marina facilities, and shops. While this ambitious project never materialized, the pier did attract cruise ships, with vessels like the Silver Shadow and Silver Spirit making appearances in 2011.
A Revitalized Destination
In 2006, local businessman Frank Costa purchased the pier, ushering in a new era. The pier underwent renovations, adding a refurbished restaurant, a function center, and a boutique hotel. Smorgy’s closed in 2010, but the pier was revitalized, opening as a function center called ‘The Pier,’ a bar called ‘City Quarter,’ a gourmet restaurant called ‘Baveras,’ and an alfresco cafe named ‘The Dock,’ all offering breathtaking views of Corio Bay and Geelong’s foreshore.
A Venue for Events (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Cunningham Pier has also served as a venue for major events. Ford celebrated its 75th anniversary in 1999 with a display of specialty vehicles on the pier. In recent years, the pier has hosted sporting events, the Festival of Sails, and New Year’s celebrations, further solidifying its place as a vibrant hub for the city.
Currie (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Remote Island Haven
Currie, located on King Island, north-east of mainland Tasmania, serves as the island’s commercial center. With a population of approximately 800, King Island provides a unique opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The island’s remote location, with the vast Southern Ocean stretching towards Africa, contributes to its serene and secluded atmosphere.
Diverse Industries and Coastal Beauty
King Island supports a variety of industries, including fishing, farming, and harvesting bull kelp for food and cosmetics. Visitors can observe kelp farmers working along the reefs and beaches. The island boasts over 200 kilometers of coastline, featuring rugged cliffs and interspersed white, sandy beaches.
A History of Shipwrecks (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
The treacherous waters surrounding King Island have claimed over 60 ships, resulting in a fascinating shipwreck trail that guides visitors around the island, detailing these maritime calamities. Scuba diving enthusiasts can explore the wrecks themselves on chartered dives.
Landmarks and Natural Wonders
The Currie lighthouse, constructed in 1870, serves as a reminder of the island’s maritime history and the dangers of these waters. For nature lovers, Seal Rocks State Reserve offers breathtaking views of cliffs and a 7,000-year-old calcified forest, formed when sand receded, leaving behind captivating limestone formations.
Wildlife and Natural Landscapes
Lavinia Nature Reserve provides a haven for wetland birds and features a popular surf beach. The island is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including wallabies, echidnas, seals, penguins, and wild turkeys.
Accommodation and Accessibility (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Visitors to Currie can find accommodation in a variety of options, including holiday rentals, bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, and campsites. The island is accessible by plane and cargo vessel, with a journey of 80 kilometers northeast from mainland Tasmania.
Dennes Point (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Scenic Coastal Haven
Dennes Point, situated at the northernmost tip of North Bruny Island, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Connected to the main tourist area in the south by two well-maintained gravel roads, Dennes Point is a popular destination for adventurous travelers seeking a scenic circuit trip.
Hilly Terrain and Stunning Views
The town’s hilly terrain provides breathtaking views overlooking the waters of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel and the Derwent estuary. Dennes Point boasts a population of approximately 250 residents, a testament to its tranquil atmosphere.
A History Rooted in Settlement (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
The area was first settled in the 1840s, with a ferry service established in 1847. At that time, the area was known as Kelly’s Point, named after a pioneering ship captain.
Fish Farming and Coastal Features
The bays located northeast of Dennes Point are home to a number of fish farms, showcasing a thriving aquaculture industry. The surrounding coastline features a variety of natural features, creating a picturesque setting for visitors to explore.
Accessibility and Location
Dennes Point is conveniently located 20.73 kilometers south of Hobart, making it easily accessible for travelers exploring Tasmania’s southern region.
Deviot Pontoon (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Deviot Pontoon: A Family-Friendly Fishing Spot
The Deviot pontoon is a popular destination for anglers on the Tamar River. Its reputation for excellent fishing makes it a great choice for families with children of all ages. The strong currents that flow between tides offer exciting fishing opportunities, with the most productive fishing happening around high and low tide.
Targeting Small Species (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Smaller species like whiting and garfish can be effectively targeted with a padenoster or sabiki rig. To further increase your chances of catching these smaller fish, consider using a burley sinker. This simple technique involves soaking bread or dough in tuna oil and squashing it into the spring of your sinker, which will attract fish to your bait.
Summertime Eagle Ray Action
For anglers seeking a larger challenge, the summer months at Deviot pontoon offer the opportunity to catch B52s, also known as eagle rays. These impressive fish are a common sight in the warmer months, and their powerful fight makes for an unforgettable fishing experience.
Doctors Rocks (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Bouldering Paradise
Doctors Rocks, located a short drive from Burnie, offers a unique bouldering experience. The dark volcanic boulders, resembling horizontally striated dolerite similar to Hillwood, are perfectly formed for bouldering. These large, rounded boulders are scattered across a headland, creating a challenging and exciting environment for climbers.
Overhanging Challenges and Brittle Rock
Many of the problems at Doctors Rocks feature overhanging starts, demanding physical strength and endurance. While the initial sections can be difficult, the top-outs are typically easier. However, the rock can be brittle, so climbers must be cautious of holds that may snap, particularly on the top-outs. Despite the challenges, Doctors Rocks offers a variety of problems, including several hard projects on the ocean side of the boulders.
Respecting the Environment and Wildlife (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Doctors Rocks is a conservation area, emphasizing the importance of minimizing environmental impact. As a penguin colony resides in the area, it is crucial to avoid visiting during dusk when penguins return to shore. While their burrows are generally located on the sides of the headland, some may be found amongst the boulders. Dogs are prohibited from the area.
Navigating the Tides and Accessing the Boulders
Doctors Rocks is easily accessible, with clear signage directing visitors. The best way to explore the boulders is to take a circuit around the headland, either in an east-west or west-east direction depending on the tide. Low tide offers the most favorable conditions for accessing the majority of the boulders. For those venturing out during a receding tide, it is advisable to start at Mordor, the area least affected by the tide, and work towards The Beach, the most tide-affected area. Conversely, if the tide is coming in, reverse this route. Even at high tide, some boulders remain accessible, and the rising water can create a unique and picturesque aesthetic.
Don Heads (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Coastal Haven of History and Nature
Don Heads, a prominent coastal headland on Tasmania’s northwest coast, invites visitors to explore its natural beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife. Situated on the western side of the Don River, just west of Devonport, Don Heads offers stunning views of the Bass Strait and the surrounding landscape.
Geological Origins and Coastal Erosion
Don Heads is a testament to the region’s volcanic past, formed from ancient basalt flows that shaped the coastline. During the Tertiary Period, lava filled the valleys, creating a unique geological formation. Over time, marine erosion sculpted the landscape, resulting in a dramatic scarp coast with cliffs overlooking a narrow shore platform. A short walk around the headland reveals this wave-cut platform, a fascinating example of the area’s geological history.
Aboriginal Heritage and European Settlement (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Before European settlement, Don Heads was densely forested, inhabited by the Punnilerpanner people. This Indigenous group thrived in the Devonport and Port Sorell region, relying on the abundant natural resources for survival. They hunted wallabies, mutton birds, abalone, seals, and lizards, and gathered edible plants, demonstrating their deep understanding and connection to the land.
A European Legacy
The first documented European visit to Don Heads occurred in 1829, when Lieutenant Governor Sir George Arthur and his party swam their horses across the Don River mouth. Shortly after, Europeans began to settle the area, clearing the land for farming and establishing a timber industry. Thomas Drew, a shrewd businessman, acquired land at Don Heads and employed convicts to clear the dense forests. The timber was used to construct buildings in Melbourne, leaving a lasting mark on the early development of the city.
A Haven for Wildlife (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Don Heads provides habitat for a diverse array of birdlife, including significant colonies of Little Penguins and Short-tailed Shearwaters. These remarkable birds undertake long migrations, traveling thousands of kilometers to their breeding grounds on Bass Strait islands and the Tasmanian mainland. Visitors can witness the penguins returning to shore at dusk, offering a unique and memorable experience.
Dora Point (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Nature Escape
Dora Point Campground, nestled within the Humbug Point Nature Recreation Area, offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Managed by the Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania, the campground provides easy access to the stunning Georges Bay, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Activities and Amenities
Humbug Point Nature Recreation Area boasts a vast expanse perfect for camping and caravanning. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including birdwatching, leisurely walks along scenic trails, fishing in the bay, and water sports. A dedicated boat launch at nearby Binalong Bay allows for convenient access to the water.
Camping Facilities and Considerations (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Dora Point Campground accommodates tents, caravans, and campervans. Restrooms are accessible, with toilets equipped for assistance, and showers are available within the toilet block. However, the shower cubicles are not wheelchair accessible.
Campfire Restrictions and Essential Information
Camping at Dora Point Campground is free of charge, and reservations are not required. Visitors are responsible for removing all trash and are prohibited from collecting wood from the reserve. Campers are urged to check for current campfire restrictions before lighting a fire.
Planning Your Trip
Before embarking on your adventure, visit the Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania website (parks.tas.gov.au) for the latest information, including alerts, safety guidelines, and national park entry fees. Familiarize yourself with the “Know before you go” webpage for essential information on visiting Tasmania’s national parks and reserves.