Some Interesting Fishing Locations in Queensland (Australia)
Queensland Fishing Locations – For all you sportfishing enthusiasts who feel like fishing somewhere in Queensland, here are a few locations.
Mooloolaba (Queensland Fishing Locations)
Mooloolaba, Queensland, Australia: From Hippie Surfer’s Spot to Upmarket Holiday Destination
Mooloolaba, a coastal town in Queensland, Australia, has transformed from a sleepy fishing village and hippie surfer’s spot to an upmarket holiday destination. Despite its popularity, Mooloolaba has retained its subtropical pristine beaches and balanced its chic boutiques with plenty of wilderness.
Location and Attractions
Mooloolaba is located about 100 kilometers north of Brisbane, between the Coral Sea and the Glass House Mountains. Two of its biggest attractions are Sea Life Mooloolaba and the Australia Zoo, which is still run by the family of Steve Irwin, the “Crocodile Hunter.”
Mooloolaba Esplanade (Queensland Fishing Locations)
The Mooloolaba Esplanade, along the city’s main beach, is a vibrant hub of activity. Visitors can enjoy a variety of man-made delights, such as art, fashion, and organic cuisine.
Mooloolaba Headland Park and Lighthouse
Across the channel from the Esplanade is Mooloolaba Headland Park. This rugged park offers stunning views of the coastline and features a lighthouse that was built in 1896.
Mooloolaba Beach and Beyond
Mooloolaba Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Visitors can also take a walk or bike ride along the coastal boardwalk. Beyond the beach, Mooloolaba offers a variety of other activities, such as fishing, golfing, and shopping.
Conclusion
Mooloolaba is a versatile holiday destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous getaway, Mooloolaba has it all.
Moreton Bay (Queensland Fishing Locations)
Moreton Bay Marine Park: Fishing Enthusiasts Paradise with Zoning Restrictions
Moreton Bay Marine Park is a fishing enthusiast’s paradise, but it’s important to be familiar with the zoning restrictions before venturing out into the waters. This will help you avoid a nasty fine and protect the park’s biodiversity.
Moreton Bay’s Unique Biodiversity
Moreton Bay is one of the largest estuarine bays in Australia and is home to a diversity of marine life, including humpback whales, turtles, bottlenose dolphins, dugongs, and more. Both tropical and temperate marine species thrive in the bay’s unique waters, making it a popular fishing destination for humans and marine life alike.
Zoning Plan to Protect Biodiversity (Queensland Fishing Locations)
To protect and sustain the park’s biodiversity, the Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning Plan dictates where and what activities are acceptable. There are four zone types, but the most important one for anglers to be aware of is the Green Zone.
Green Zones: No-Take Areas
Green Zones are “no-take” areas, meaning all forms of fishing and collecting are prohibited. This includes line fishing, trolling, crabbing, bait gathering, bait netting, netting, spearfishing, and trawling.
Green Zones are not identifiable out on the water, so it’s important to be familiar with the boundaries before throwing in your line. Green Zoned areas include parts of Pumicestone Channel, Hays Inlet, Goodwin Beach, Woody Point, and Bramble Bay.
Boat Ramp Signage
Boat ramps have signage with information on the Green Zones. Please be sure to read and follow the signage to avoid violating the zoning restrictions.
Conclusion
By familiarizing yourself with the Moreton Bay Marine Park Zoning Plan, you can help protect the park’s biodiversity and ensure that it remains a fishing enthusiast’s paradise for years to come.
Mossman River (Queensland Fishing Locations)
Mossman Gorge: A Tropical Rainforest Oasis
Mossman Gorge is a stunning tropical rainforest oasis located in the southern part of Daintree National Park, Queensland, Australia. It is about 80 kilometers north of Cairns and 5 kilometers from the town of Mossman. Mossman Gorge is a sacred place for the indigenous Eastern Kuku Yalanji people and has been protected since 1967.
Mossman Gorge Walk
A suspension bridge runs across Rex Creek close to where it enters the Mossman River, linking the “car-park” area to a 3.4-kilometer rainforest loop track walk. The walk takes visitors through the heart of the gorge, where they can admire the towering trees, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear waters.
Mossman River (Queensland Fishing Locations)
The Mossman River is a pristine river that flows through the gorge. It is home to a variety of fish, including jungle perch and spotted flagtail fish. Visitors can swim in the cool, refreshing waters of the river or simply relax on the riverbank and enjoy the natural beauty.
Flora and Fauna
Mossman Gorge is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Some of the most commonly observed animals include the Australian brush turkey, orange-footed scrub fowl, Ulysses butterfly, and Boyd’s forest dragon. Over 430 species of birds have been spotted in the gorge, along with 18 species of reptiles, 12 species of amphibians, and several species of fishes.
Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher
One of the most popular animals to spot in Mossman Gorge is the buff-breasted paradise kingfisher. These stunning birds are known for their bright blue plumage and long tails. They are seasonal visitors to the gorge, where they nest and breed.
Conclusion
Mossman Gorge is a spectacular tropical rainforest oasis that is well worth a visit. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and pristine waters, it is a place where visitors can truly relax and connect with nature.
Mud Islands (Queensland Fishing Locations)
Mud Islands: A Hidden Gem in Port Phillip
The Mud Islands reserve is a hidden gem in Port Phillip, Victoria, Australia. Located about 90 kilometers southwest of Melbourne, the islands are a popular destination for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and day trippers.
Geography
The Mud Islands are made up of three low-lying islands surrounding a shallow tidal lagoon. The islands are constantly changing shape due to the movement of sand by tidal currents.
History
The islands were discovered by Acting Lieutenant John Murray in 1802. Murray named the islands “Swan Isles” due to the large number of swans and pelicans he observed there. In 1836, Lieutenants T.M. Symonds and H.R. Henry of HMS Rattlesnake surveyed the islands and renamed them Mud Islands. The first careful scientific study of the islands was not made until 1945.
Wildlife (Queensland Fishing Locations)
The Mud Islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including over 190 species of birds. The islands are an important breeding ground for many species of shorebirds, such as the pied oystercatcher, sooty oystercatcher, and hooded plover. Other notable bird species include the Australian pelican, white-faced heron, and royal spoonbill.
Recreation
The Mud Islands are a popular destination for birdwatching, nature walks, and picnics. Visitors can also take boat tours of the islands or hire kayaks and paddleboards.
Conclusion
The Mud Islands are a unique and beautiful place to visit. With its diverse wildlife and stunning scenery, the islands are sure to appeal to visitors of all ages.
Mulgrave River (Queensland Fishing Locations)
Mulgrave River: A Scenic River with a Rich History
The Mulgrave River is a scenic river in Far North Queensland, Australia. It flows through the Goldsborough Valley, Gordonvale, and the southern outskirts of Cairns before emptying into the Coral Sea.
Geography
The Mulgrave River rises in the Bellenden Ker Range, which is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. The river’s catchment area is 1,315 square kilometers, some of which is protected by the Wooroonooran National Park.
History (Queensland Fishing Locations)
The Mulgrave River was once the river mouth of the Trinity Inlet. However, volcanic activity resulted in the rise of Green Hill in the Mulgrave Valley, which blocked the river from entering the sea near present-day Cairns.
Gold was discovered in the Mulgrave River in the 1870s, bringing considerable change to the Goldsbrough Valley. Today, gravel is extracted from the riverbed.
Flora and Fauna
The Mulgrave River is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including freshwater stonefish, crocodiles, and birds such as the Australian pelican and the white-faced heron.
Recreation
The Mulgrave River is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Visitors can also take boat tours of the river or visit the Mulgrave River National Park.
Conclusion
The Mulgrave River is a beautiful and important river in Far North Queensland. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna and is a popular destination for recreation.
Murray River (Queensland Fishing Locations)
Introduction
The Murray River is a river in Far North Queensland, Australia. It extends for a length of 70 kilometers (43 mi) and drops 297 meters (974 ft) in height from its source in the mountains of Girringun National Park to its mouth on the Queensland coast. It is named after John Murray, who was an officer in the paramilitary Native Police force.
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The Murray River is a popular destination for fishing, swimming, and boating. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, snakes, and birds.
Geography
The Murray River rises in the mountains of Girringun National Park and flows for 70 kilometers before emptying into the Coral Sea. The river is surrounded by lush rainforest and tropical vegetation.
Biodiversity (Queensland Fishing Locations)
The Murray River is home to a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, snakes, birds, and fish. The river is also an important breeding ground for migratory birds.
Recreation
The Murray River is a popular destination for fishing, swimming, boating, and kayaking. Visitors can also take boat tours of the river or visit the Murray Falls, a popular waterfall located in the upper reaches of the river.
Conclusion
The Murray River is a beautiful and diverse river that offers something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and abundance of recreational activities.
Nerang River (Queensland Fishing Locations)
Nerang River: A Fishing and Nature Lover’s Paradise
The Nerang River is a beautiful waterway on the Gold Coast of Australia that offers a diverse range of fishing experiences for all levels of anglers. From saltwater species in the lower reaches to freshwater delights in the upper reaches, the Nerang River has something to offer everyone.
Saltwater Fishing Extravaganza
The lower reaches of the Nerang River are a saltwater angler’s paradise, with a variety of sought-after species to target, including:
- Bream: Known for its challenging fight and delicious taste, bream is a favorite catch among local anglers. They can be found near structures, such as bridges and jetties, waiting to strike your bait.
- Flathead: The Nerang River’s shallow flats are prime hunting grounds for flathead. These cunning predators can be taken using lures or live bait, offering a thrilling challenge for anglers.
- Whiting: Sandbanks and estuarine zones are home to the ever-popular whiting. These delicious fish are renowned for their distinctive bite, making for an exciting fishing experience.
- Mangrove Jack: These fiery red fish are known for their strength and aggression. Target them around submerged structures and mangrove-lined areas for an exhilarating battle.
- Mulloway: The mighty mulloway is the apex predator of the Nerang River. Landing one of these impressive fish is a testament to your angling skills and patience.
Exploring the Upper Reaches (Queensland Fishing Locations)
As you venture further up the Nerang River, you’ll discover a change in scenery and a new fishing experience. The upper reaches of the river offer a freshwater haven, with a focus on one particular species:
- Australian Bass: The Nerang River’s upper reaches are teeming with Australian bass. These feisty freshwater fish are known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic leaps. Casting lures or using bait can lead to thrilling battles with these prized catches.
Nature’s Beauty and Conservation
Apart from its fishing prospects, the Nerang River is also a hotspot for wildlife and natural beauty. As you navigate its tranquil waters, you may spot a variety of bird species, dolphins, and even the occasional dugong. The riverbanks are adorned with a combination of waterfront homes and lush mangrove forests, creating a serene backdrop for your fishing adventures.
Conservation and Responsibility (Queensland Fishing Locations)
While enjoying the Nerang River’s bounty, it’s crucial to be a responsible angler. Follow local regulations and guidelines for catch limits, release undersized fish, and dispose of rubbish properly to protect this precious ecosystem for generations to come.
Conclusion
The Nerang River is a captivating destination for anglers of all levels, offering a wide range of fishing experiences from saltwater to freshwater. Whether you’re chasing bream, flathead, whiting, mangrove jack, mulloway, or Australian bass, the Nerang River provides a diverse and scenic backdrop for your fishing adventures. Embrace the beauty of nature, engage in responsible fishing practices, and savor the moments of excitement as you explore this unique aquatic paradise.
Noosa River (Queensland Fishing Locations)
Noosa River: A Fishing Paradise
The Noosa River is a river situated in South East Queensland and is a popular fishing destination. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including bream, flathead, tailor, trevally, and wild Australia bass.
Noosa River Fishing Spots
There are a number of great fishing spots along the Noosa River. At the mouth of the river, anglers can fish for tailor and trevally by flicking metal slugs and soft plastics during the late afternoon. At night, soft plastics and metal vibes are effective for mulloway and trevally.
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The headlands are another great fishing spot, particularly during late afternoon storms and rough seas when reef fish move closer inshore for shelter. Species range from cod, cobia, mulloway, and trevally. The headlands are sheltered from prevailing trade winds, which makes them good for boating and kayak-based fishermen. Breams are also common in the sheltered bays and are best targeted using light tackle and soft plastics.
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Generally, all year round the water in the Noosa River is clear and there is often great fishing to be had for bream, flathead, tailor, trevally, and further upstream the beautiful Wild Australia Bass. Noosa River has some great fishing spots and the river generally fishes best when the water isn’t so clear – after rain is one of the most productive times to target estuary species.
Noosa River Bream (Queensland Fishing Locations)
There is a great population of bream in the Noosa River along with some great fishing spots to target these small sport fish. Winter is the best time to target bream from April to October, however, they are caught all year round.
Noosa River Bass
The wild Australia bass exists in the freshwater parts of the river and they are best targeted from October to April. The best place to target bass in the Noosa River is north of Harry’s Hut jetty.
Conclusion
The Noosa River is a great fishing destination for anglers of all levels. With a variety of fish species to target and a number of great fishing spots, the Noosa River has something to offer everyone.
Nudgee Beach (Queensland Fishing Locations)
Nudgee Beach, Queensland: A Coastal Gem
Nudgee Beach, situated just west of Brisbane Airport, is a pristine fishing destination that offers convenient access for fishing enthusiasts. The highlight of this location is the Schulz Canal, known as Jacksons Creek and Kedron Brook Floodway, which meanders through the area before emptying into Brisbane’s Moreton Bay at Nudgee.
Schulz Canal: A Serene Waterway
The entrance to Schulz Canal presents a picturesque view of muddy sandflats that define the landscape at Nudgee Beach. This tranquil waterway extends upstream, passing through Toombul, and eventually transforming into Kedron Brook. A biking and walking path runs alongside much of the canal, providing an opportunity for leisurely strolls and bike rides.
Abundant Fishing Opportunities (Queensland Fishing Locations)
For fishing enthusiasts, Nudgee Beach offers a myriad of options, particularly for land-based fishing. The lower section near the canal’s mouth is renowned for yielding the best catches. The canal’s entrance is flanked by small tidal creeks on both the east and west sides, adding to the diversity of fishing opportunities.
Prime Fishing Seasons and Techniques
At low tide, the area in front of the canal, where the wave action converges with the channel and flats, becomes the ideal spot for catching whiting. As the tide rises, whiting can also be found on the flats, along the beaches, and along the canal edges. The choice of fishing location greatly depends on the stage of the tide.
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To lure in whiting, fresh worms or small pieces of frozen prawn are recommended. Along the canal edges, you can encounter flatheads, and both live bait and lures prove to be effective in enticing this species. Other fish species, including bream, catfish, pikey eels, and stingrays, can also be spotted in the region. If you’re lucky, you might even have a chance to catch jewfish and threadfin salmon. During the appropriate seasons, prawns and occasional mud crabs are part of the local marine life.
Convenient Amenities for Anglers (Queensland Fishing Locations)
Nudgee Beach caters to the needs of anglers with a boat ramp located on the west bank, complemented by a spacious parking area. This amenity ensures that fishing enthusiasts can easily launch their vessels, enhancing the overall experience at this charming coastal destination.
Conclusion
In summary, Nudgee Beach, with its Schulz Canal, abundant fishing opportunities, and diverse range of species, is a prime location for anglers. Whether you prefer land-based or boat fishing, this picturesque coastal gem in Queensland, Australia, promises a memorable and rewarding experience throughout the year.
Palm Creek (Queensland Fishing Locations)
Palm Creek, Queensland: An Undiscovered Estuary
Palm Creek, nestled between Ingham and Townsville in Queensland, Australia, is a lesser-known estuary system that enjoys a sense of isolation, making it an attractive spot for anglers seeking less fishing pressure. Despite its small size, Palm Creek offers all the features characteristic of larger estuary systems, including expansive sand flats, banks adorned with mangroves, deep holes, and natural structures.
Fishing in Palm Creek: A Delight for Anglers
For those casting their lines in Palm Creek, it’s essential to heed the general advice for fishing in Far North Queensland estuaries. This pristine location provides an opportunity to target Barramundi and Mangrove Jacks, both of which require specific tactics and a keen eye for snags. Anglers are advised to use lures suitable for the current season and work them through the intricate network of submerged obstacles.
Effective Lures for Year-Round Success
Anglers at Palm Creek have found that soft plastic paddle tails, rigged up on weedless hooks, prove to be the most effective choice throughout the year. These versatile lures adapt to various fishing conditions, ensuring that anglers have a reliable and successful experience in this hidden gem of an estuary. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the sport, Palm Creek offers a unique and rewarding fishing adventure in the heart of Queensland.