It’s time to get hooked in the tropical oasis of Far North Queensland. When it comes to fishing, don’t forget to bring a camera to snap some memorable shots of your adventure, as many of them will be hard to believe unless photographic evidence is seen.
From East North Queensland to West, the fishing is epic, luring passionate anglers back year after year to their favourite fishing spots in Far North Queensland. A unique experience that opens up endless possibilities of catching a fish almost anywhere you can wet a line, it’s time to explore the best fishing in Australia.
Don’t forget to be crocodile smart when in fishing waters, as these big creatures are often also on the hunt for prey. Stay clear from water banks and swamps, as crocs tend to congregate in these areas.
Weipa Fishing Guide
The town of Weipa can be found nestled at the West side of Far North Queensland. A quiet town that is far from the hordes of tourists you’ll find at the Great Barrier Reef, the fishing here is legendary. A whole lot of fight followed by some seriously big sizes, the fish in Weipa have some bite. For those fishing enthusiasts who want to tick off a fantastic fishing experience off their bucket list and bag a trophy to brag about, Weipa is the place to be.
Renowned for being one of the Barramundi capitals of the world, you can guarantee a line thrown in these waters lead to quality fish in big numbers.
The warm waters and wide variety of species, backed by a unique location makes Weipa a fly fishing paradise.
Where to fish in Weipa
It is true that good fishing heavily depends on the right fishing spot for the right type of fish. Snag fishing with an enticing lure can land you a Mangrove Jack, Queenfish, Cod, Fingermark and Trevally. For bigger size Mackerel, Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, Queenfish, Pink Snapper, Cobia, and Trevally, you will need to head offshore to fish for them. Keep an eye out for diving birds to find the great spots when offshore.
Near shore reefs, sand flats, and rocky headlands are great places to catch some Giant Herring, Tuna, Golden Trevally, Permit, and Queenfish.
For specific fishing locations, check out the large estuary systems such as the Mission, Pine, Emberky and Nomenade river for a great Weipa fishing experience – both land based or on boat. You’ll find Barramundi, Fingermark, Mangrove Jack, Trevally, Cod, and Queenfish in these estuaries.
Best times to fish in Weipa
The Weipa fishing experience is clearly defined by the seasons, which determine the type of species you’ll catch.
January to March is the wet season, meaning murky waters and lower salinity in estuaries. Water flows from the creeks create aeration, making it a great time to fish when most species move upstream or downstream to spawn.
March to June is probably the best time to fish in Weipa and the rest of Far North Queensland – after the wet season. With little wind and clear sunny days, the fishing experience is remarkable, and especially since the fishes tend to be more active after the wet weather. During this season, your target fish will be Barramundi, Threadfin Salmon, Trevally, Mangrove Jack and Fingermark.
June to August are the cooler months where winds blow offshore, with the sea being calmer and estuaries being clearer. Head offshore to catch some active Barramundi, Trevally, Queenfish and Tuna.
September to December is when the heat kicks in and the weather increases in humidity. This is the Barramundi season, as they prepare for their yearly spawn. The warmer weather can bring in luck with Mangrove Jacks, but lures can be worked hard to lure in these active fish.
To experience the best of Weipa Fishing, jump on board a fishing charter with fishing expert Lee Hodgetts of Weipa Sports Fishing. An experience with Lee and his team guarantees big catches and a once in a lifetime fishing experience.
Making the most out of Weipa Fishing
Your fishing experience doesn’t end when the fish is caught. It ends when the fish is cooked and eaten.
Head to the Albatross Bay Resort for a one of a kind Catch & Cook experience where professional chefs prepare your catch just the way you like it – cooked to perfection with a side of hot chips and fresh salad. It’s a treat that should not be missed when in Weipa for fishing. After all, you’ve done all the hard work of catching the fish, why not leave it to the experts in the kitchen to turn it into a decadent dish!
Banner image credit: Weipa Sports Fishing
