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.
Leven River (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
The River Leven: A Scenic Journey Through Tasmania
The River Leven, a perennial river flowing through northwestern Tasmania, traces its namesake to the River Leven in Scotland. It was christened by the Van Diemen’s Land Company, a testament to the strong ties between Tasmania and its Scottish heritage.
A Journey Through Diverse Landscapes (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
The River Leven originates in the Vale of Belvoir Conservation Area near Cradle Mountain, a majestic peak renowned for its scenic beauty. It then meanders through the captivating Leven Canyon, a natural wonder showcasing the raw power of nature.
A Descent Towards Bass Strait
Flowing generally northward, the River Leven traverses a distance of 99.3 kilometers, culminating in its meeting with Bass Strait at Ulverstone. This journey encompasses a significant descent of 946 meters, highlighting the river’s dynamic and ever-changing nature.
Lewisham (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Tranquil Tasmanian Suburb
Lewisham, a charming locality and suburb in the Sorell municipality, offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Hobart. Located approximately 35 kilometers northeast of the city, Lewisham provides a tranquil setting for residents and visitors alike. According to the 2021 census, the locality boasts a population of 799, creating a sense of community and small-town charm.
A History Rooted in Local Heritage (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Lewisham owes its name to the prominent Arndell Lewis family, a prominent figure in Australian politics. It was officially declared a town in 1957, transitioning to a suburb/locality in 1988, reflecting its growing importance as a residential area. The tranquil waters of Pitt Water form the western and southwestern boundaries of the locality, creating a picturesque backdrop for this peaceful community.
Connecting to the Surrounding Region
The C340 route, also known as Lewisham Scenic Drive, gracefully winds its way through the locality. Starting from the Arthur Highway, this scenic route connects Lewisham to other surrounding areas, providing easy access to explore the beauty of the region.
Lindisfarne (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Coastal Suburb on Hobart’s Eastern Shore
Lindisfarne, a vibrant suburb on Hobart’s Eastern Shore, sits just 6 kilometers from the city center. Part of the City of Clarence municipality, Lindisfarne boasts a rich history and a picturesque location. Its name originates from Lindisferne House, a property built in the 1820s near the suburb of Rosny. While it was briefly known as Beltana from 1892, confusion with Bellerive led to its renaming as Lindisfarne in 1903. The name honors the tidal island of Holy Island in Northumberland, England, known as Lindisfarne.
A Coastal Haven
Lindisfarne is centered around a bay of the same name, offering a serene escape from the city. The bay, one of many sheltered anchorages on the Derwent River, attracts boaters and water enthusiasts alike. Several clubs, including the Motor Yacht Club of Tasmania, the Lindisfarne Sailing Club, and the Lindisfarne Rowing Club, call this bay home.
A Hub for Recreation and Sport (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Lindisfarne boasts a sprawling recreation park, a haven for outdoor activities. The park encompasses playing fields, home to the Lindisfarne Blues, a team competing in the Southern Tasmanian Football League (now known as the SFL), and the Lindisfarne Cricket Club, part of the Tasmanian Cricket Association. Tennis courts host the Lindisfarne Tennis Club, while the Beltana RSL Bowls Club offers a friendly atmosphere for bowlers. The park also includes an ANZAC memorial park, a testament to the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers.
Where History Meets Nature
The ANZAC memorial park sits atop a bluff overlooking the Derwent River and Mount Wellington, providing a breathtaking panoramic view. The site also houses a significant Tasmanian Aboriginal midden, offering a glimpse into the area’s rich Indigenous history.
A Welcoming Community for Seniors (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Lindisfarne is a welcoming community for seniors, with a number of retirement villages and senior citizen accommodations, including the Queen Victoria Home and the Freemasons Home Southern Tasmania. These facilities provide a comfortable and supportive environment for those seeking a peaceful retirement in this beautiful coastal setting.
Little & Great Musselroe Bays (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Tranquil Haven on the Tasmanian Coast
Little Musselroe Bay, nestled in Cape Portland, Tasmania, offers a serene escape with its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters. Stretching approximately 2.5 kilometers, the beach provides ample space for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the tranquility of the coastline.
Essential Amenities for a Comfortable Visit
Little Musselroe Bay provides basic amenities for visitors, including bathroom facilities. Dogs are also welcome to join the fun on the beach, making it a pet-friendly destination.
Adventure and Exploration Await (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Beyond the beach, Little Musselroe Bay offers a range of activities. Anglers can cast a line in hopes of a bountiful catch, while boaters can explore the calm waters. Hiking trails in the surrounding areas offer breathtaking coastal views.
Convenient Access and Parking
A large parking area, located near the beach, provides free parking for visitors. This convenient access makes it easy to enjoy a day at Little Musselroe Bay without any parking hassles.
A Marine Haven and Birdwatching Paradise
Little Musselroe Bay is renowned for its diverse marine life. The waters teem with mussels, abalone, and lobster, attracting both divers and seafood enthusiasts. The beach also serves as a popular spot for birdwatching, with several species of shorebirds and seabirds gracing the coastline.
Exploring the Surrounding Region (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Little Musselroe Bay is a gateway to a wealth of attractions. Mount William National Park, with its stunning coastal views, offers a scenic escape. Eddystone Point Lighthouse, a testament to the region’s maritime history, provides a fascinating glimpse into the past. Explore the local fishing village of Gladstone, known for its charm and fresh seafood, and visit the nearby Bay of Fires Conservation Area, renowned for its fiery orange granite rocks and turquoise waters.
Culinary Delights Nearby
For those seeking culinary delights, several dining options are located near Little Musselroe Bay. The Jetty Cafe and Fish Van offer fresh seafood, while The Wharf Hotel provides a selection of pub-style meals.
Accommodation Options for Every Traveler
Several accommodation options are available in the nearby towns of Gladstone and Bridport. The Bridport Bay Inn, with its comfortable rooms and restaurant, provides a relaxing stay. The Gladstone Hotel, a traditional pub with affordable rooms, offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for travelers.
Little Swanport (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Charming Coastal Village in Tasmania
Little Swanport, a quaint village nestled on the shores of Great Oyster Bay, offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Situated between the towns of Swansea and Triabunna, Little Swanport derives its name from the Little Swanport River, which flows into the bay.
A Legacy of Indigenous Heritage
Little Swanport played host to the Little Swanport Tasmanian, an Aboriginal language spoken near the village. This distinct language, documented in a list of 211 words collected by George Augustus Robinson in the 1830s, stands as a testament to the rich Indigenous history of the area.
Outdoor Paradise on the Coast (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Just north of Little Swanport, Mayfield Bay Camping Area offers a peaceful retreat for caravanners seeking a seaside escape. The area provides access to a beautiful beach, perfect for fishing, launching boats, and enjoying the natural beauty of the coastline. For those seeking a more active adventure, snorkeling amidst the clear waters of Great Oyster Bay or exploring the Three Arch Bridge, built by convicts in 1845, offer exciting opportunities.
A Historic Gem: Mitchell Cottage
Mitchell Cottage, a testament to the region’s past, was built around 1860 as a non-denominational church. Erected by John Mitchell, the owner of the Lisdillon Estate, for his family and workers, the solid stone structure served as a place of worship, education, and community gathering. It is known locally as the “Little Schoolhouse Chapel”, and has recently undergone a thorough renovation, preserving its historical charm for future generations.
Low Head Pilot Station (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Tranquil Haven Steeped in History
Low Head, a small suburb located at the mouth of the Tamar River in northern Tasmania, offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and coastal charm. Just a 45-minute drive from Launceston, Low Head beckons visitors with its iconic lighthouse and pilot station, the oldest in Australia, and the enchanting sight of fairy penguins waddling onto the beach.
A Breathtaking Coastal Landscape
Nestled at the tip of Northern Tasmania, Low Head experiences the full force of the roaring forties, creating a picturesque but often windy environment. Many homes in the suburb enjoy breathtaking views overlooking the Tamar River and the Bass Strait ocean, making it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful escape.
Peaceful Haven for Visitors and Locals (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Low Head welcomes tourists with its serene atmosphere and abundant attractions. The suburb offers a variety of holiday accommodations, making it a popular destination during spring and summer. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy casting their lines in the rich waters, while those seeking relaxation can unwind on the beach or explore the charming streets.
A Quiet Escape from the City
While the suburb provides a tranquil retreat, visitors seeking shops and restaurants will need to travel a short five-minute drive to neighboring George Town. Low Head’s peaceful atmosphere, coupled with its proximity to the city, makes it a desirable location for retirees, commuters, and those seeking a tranquil weekend getaway.
Macquarie Island (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Remote Jewel of the Southern Ocean
Macquarie Island, a remote island nestled in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, lies halfway between New Zealand and Antarctica. This ecologically significant island, part of Oceania and politically a part of Tasmania, Australia, has enjoyed protected status since 1978, becoming a Tasmanian State Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
Home to the Royal Penguin
Macquarie Island is renowned for its extraordinary wildlife, notably hosting the entire global population of royal penguins during their annual nesting season. This unique ecosystem, classified as part of the Antipodes Subantarctic Islands tundra ecoregion, is a testament to the island’s diverse and fragile natural heritage.
A Hub for Scientific Exploration (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Since 1948, the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) has maintained a permanent base on Macquarie Island, known as Macquarie Island Station. Located at the northern end of the island, the base, which is the island’s only human settlement, typically houses between 20 and 40 people throughout the year. A nearby heliport facilitates transportation to and from the station.
A Strategic Location for Australia’s Antarctic Program
Macquarie Island serves as a vital base for the Australian Antarctic Program (AAP), supporting scientific research, environmental monitoring, and economic activities. The Australian Defence Force plays a crucial role in the AAP, providing annual logistical support for the Australian Antarctic Division through “Operation Southern Discovery”.
Safeguarding Australia’s Maritime Interests
As part of “Operation Resolute”, the Royal Australian Navy and the Australian Border Force deploy Cape or Armidale-class patrol boats to maintain maritime security in the region. To enhance its capabilities in this critical role, the Navy is transitioning from Armidale-class boats to larger Arafura-class offshore patrol vessels, ensuring continued protection of Australia’s maritime interests in the Southern Ocean.
Margate Wharf (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Tranquil Town on the Edge of the Derwent
Margate, a quaint town nestled on the shores of North West Bay, serves as a convenient pitstop for those exploring the southern reaches of Tasmania. Surrounded by vineyards, grazing fields, and stands of trees, Margate offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
A Journey Through Time
The original Margate township thrived along Beach Road, relying on coal-burning steamers to deliver supplies. From 1906 to 1922, the Sandfly Colliery Tramway connected Margate Wharf to the Kaoota coal mine. The jetty, extending 80 meters and capable of accommodating ships drawing 7 meters, played a vital role in the town’s economy.
Margate Train: A Unique Historical Attraction (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
The Margate Train, formerly known as the Tasman Limited, is Tasmania’s last remaining passenger train. Today, the restored railway carriages, open daily, house a diverse range of businesses, including art and craft shops, antique warehouses, a pancake restaurant, and a cafe.
A Glimpse into the Past at Brookfield Margate
The historic Brookfield Shed, built in the early 1940s by Eugene Klinger, a German entrepreneur, was once used for collecting flower and vegetable seeds for Yates Seeds. The slatted drying floor, a testament to its past, still stands. Today, the complex serves as a vineyard, function center, and restaurant/cafe, offering a unique blend of history and modern amenities.
Channel Heritage Museum: Uncovering Tasmania’s Past
The Channel Heritage Museum, located in Margate, offers a captivating journey through Tasmania’s history. The museum houses permanent exhibits that explore early exploration, Aboriginal heritage, timber and boat building, fruit growing, fishing, sport, churches, transport, the 1967 bushfires, and military history. The museum also showcases aspects of everyday life in the past, featuring a schoolroom, a shop, and colonial-style rooms.
Dru Point Track: A Scenic Coastal Walk (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
The Dru Point Track, a pleasant 30-minute stroll along the picturesque banks of the North West Bay River, offers stunning views of the estuary and the summit of kunanyi/Mount Wellington. Bird lovers can observe a variety of waterbirds feeding at the estuary, and with a bit of luck, may even spot a swift parrot feeding on the nectar of black gums.
Inverawe Native Gardens: A Celebration of Tasmanian Flora
Inverawe Native Gardens, a Tasmanian garden landscaped along traditional lines, showcases the diverse flora of the island. The gardens, originally 22 acres of weeds, now feature a vast array of plants, arranged in a semi-formal design. The walking paths provide access to two distinct areas, a natural woodland remnant and a former tidal swamp transformed into rich grasslands.
Marion Bay Spit (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Coastal Paradise on Tasmania’s East Coast
Marion Bay, located a short 30-minute drive from a nearby town, offers a captivating escape with its pristine beauty and diverse wildlife. The sheer magnificence of this beach, with its vast expanse of white sand and crystal-clear waters, prompted frequent exclamations of astonishment, “Why haven’t we visited here before?”
A Beach of Breathtaking Beauty and Significance
Marion Bay boasts a remarkable nine kilometers of pristine white sand, making it one of Tasmania’s most impressive beaches. This natural haven, designated as an Important Bird Area, provides a sanctuary for a variety of bird species.
Where Birds Thrive (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
The beach and its mudflats have been recognized by BirdLife International as a crucial habitat for numerous bird species. These wetlands are a significant breeding ground for fairy terns and hooded plovers and support over 1% of the world’s pied oystercatcher population. The area also provides a vital stopover for red-necked stints, while other species, including curlew sandpipers, sooty oystercatchers, and little terns, are regularly sighted.
A Culinary Paradise and a Tragic History
Marion Bay owes its name to French explorer Marion du Fresne, who documented the area’s abundance of seafood, including crayfish, lobsters, huge crabs, and oysters. These oysters, renowned for their quality, are now sold throughout Australia. While Marion du Fresne documented the first European sighting of Tasmanian Aboriginal people, his legacy also includes the unfortunate distinction of being the first European to kill an Aboriginal person. A twist of fate later led to his own death at the hands of the Maori people in New Zealand.
Marrawah (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Town at the Edge of the World
Marrawah, situated on the westernmost tip of Tasmania, offers a unique blend of rugged beauty and coastal charm. Renowned in the surfing world for its impressive big waves, reaching 19 meters in extreme conditions, Marrawah also serves as a vital outpost for the surrounding agricultural region.
Exploring the Surroundings of Marrawah
Beyond the town, farmlands stretch towards the sea, where the dramatic landscapes of Green Point and West Point offer stunning coastal views. Visitors can enjoy coastal walks, discover important Aboriginal carvings at Mount Cameron West and Sundown Point, and embark on cruises along the picturesque Arthur River.
A History Rooted in Aboriginal Heritage (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
The name “Marrawah” is believed to originate from the Peerapper Aboriginal language, where it referred to a type of eucalyptus tree, a testament to the area’s rich Indigenous heritage.
Ancient Art at Sundown Point
Sundown Point, located south of the Arthur River, boasts significant Aboriginal sites that have been recognized as places of cultural importance. The area features engravings on 40 separate rock slabs of laminated mudstone, showcasing intricate motifs such as circles, grooves, crosses, and linear designs. These engravings, rare in Tasmania, demonstrate the artistic skill and cultural significance of the Aboriginal people who once inhabited this region.
Mount Cameron West: A Masterpiece of Aboriginal Art
Mount Cameron West, also known as Preminghana, is considered one of the most significant Aboriginal art sites in Tasmania. This 524-hectare area, declared an Indigenous Protected Area in 1999, is managed by the Tasmanian Aboriginal Land and Sea Council. The site features remarkable engravings, recognized as the finest example of Tasmanian Aboriginal art and a testament to the artistic prowess of hunter-gatherer cultures.
A Journey Through Time (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
The site, believed to be approximately 2,000 years old, displays a diverse range of motifs, including circles, trellises, rows of dots, and other geometric designs. The engravings, created by punching or grinding holes into the calcerenite rock surface, offer a glimpse into the rich history and artistic expression of the Aboriginal people of Tasmania.
Maurouard Beach (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A Dynamic Coastal Landscape
Maurouard Beach, also known as Perons Beach, stretches along the southeastern Tasmanian coastline, offering a captivating blend of rugged beauty and dynamic coastal processes. The beach commences on the southern side of a rocky point and curves gracefully for 8.5 kilometers, ending at a rocky shoreline.
A Powerful Force of Nature
The beach faces the full force of southerly waves, averaging 1.5 meters in height. These powerful waves create a complex and ever-changing landscape, characterized by a well-developed bar and beach system, extending up to 100 meters wide. At times, as many as 30 rips form along the beach, including a permanent rip against the southern rocks. The interplay of bars and rips can generate impressive surf breaks along the length of the beach.
Remarkable Dune System (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
A 500-meter wide zone of transgressive dunes, known as the Peron Dunes, backs the entire beach. These dunes, which reach up to 20 meters in height, become more unstable towards the north, creating a distinctive and ever-evolving landscape. The dunes are vegetated with marram grass, resulting in a unique peaky dune topography.
Access and Surrounding Environment
The St Helens Point Road provides access to the northern half of the dunes, while a northern car park is located at the boundary point. Visitors can walk across the dunes to reach the beach. The southern half of the dunes is backed by a series of discontinuous wetlands, including Moriarty, Windmill, and Jocks lagoons, which do not connect to the sea.
McGees Bridge (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
Connecting Tasmania’s Scenic Wonders
McGees Bridge, a vital road bridge spanning Pitt Water near Sorell in southeastern Tasmania, connects Hobart to some of the state’s most iconic destinations. The bridge, part of the Tasman Highway, facilitates travel to the Port Arthur Historic Site on the Tasman Peninsula and the picturesque East Coast.
A Bridge Built for Efficiency and Progress
In the mid-19th century, the Tasmanian Government recognized the need for a crossing at Pitt Water to improve access to Sorell. A two-thirds causeway and a single-lane timber bridge were constructed to meet this need. However, the ongoing maintenance of the timber bridge became a significant challenge.
A Modern Engineering Marvel (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
To address this issue, Australia’s first post-tensioned beam and slab bridge was completed in 1957. This innovative bridge, designed with inflated rubber tubes to create voids for the tendons, was anticipated to last for 50 years.
The New Bridge, a New Chapter
In 2001, concerns about the deteriorating condition of the bridge led to the construction of a new structure. The new bridge, designed by GHD, marked a significant engineering milestone. It was the first match-cast precast-segmental channel-type road bridge built outside of France and the United States.
Honoring a Legacy of Innovation
This $20 million project, funded by the Tasmanian Government, was a testament to the commitment to infrastructure development. The new bridge was named in honor of Dr. Rodney William McGee, a renowned bridge engineer who passed away in 2002.
A Bridge Built with Environmental Sensitivity (Tasmania Fishing Spots)
The construction of McGees Bridge was marked by a strong commitment to environmental protection. The bridge, situated within an internationally recognized wetland site and a designated heritage area, was carefully designed to minimize its impact on the local ecosystem.