Are you fed up of visiting the same fishing spot over and over again and are wondering if there are any good fishing spots near me? Australia has a vast coastline and pristine rivers, and a thriving marine life, which also make it a haven for every fishing enthusiast out there.
What this means is that whether you are after a freshwater adventure or a deep-sea thrill, there is a perfect spot waiting for you. If you want to find out all the lush fishing areas available in your area or an area that you might be travelling to, then continue reading and find out all the breathtaking fishing locations.
Thirty Must-visit Fishing Spots in Australia
Even though there are a lot more than thirty spots in Australia, these are some of the most popular locations that not only offer their virtues of unique scenery but also the opportunity to create a memorable fishing experience.
1) Queensland
Cairns
This is one of the most popular locations you can visit in Queensland and is known as the “Big Game Capital Of The World”. It is located near the Great Barrier Reef and provides its visitors with a diverse fishing environment. When you visit this area, you will have the chance to capture a bunch of trophy fish, which include Black Marlin, Sailfish, and Tuna.
Weipa
This fishing spot is located on the Gulf of Carpentaria — it is a remote location that offers anglers a pristine fishing environment alongside a wide variety of fishes. These options include but aren’t limited to Barramundi, Queenfish, and more. It is because of these facts that some people also consider this a paradise for fishing enthusiasts who are looking for a unique experience.
Fraser Island
It is a sand island that goes along the south-eastern coast of the Wide Bay–Burnett region of Queensland. This island houses a bunch of habitats that include surf beaches as well as estuaries that cater to different fishing styles. While visiting the area, you can expect to catch species like tailors, whiting, and flathead.
Townsville
This is a coastal city in northeastern Queensland and also an excellent location for fishing enthusiasts. Because of its location, the fishing spots in this area provide a few different fishing opportunities, which include barramundi in the estuaries and coral trout on the reefs. Moreover, this area is famous for being family-friendly and provides all the accessibility options for a smooth and hassle-free fishing experience.
Moreton Bay
Located near Brisbane, this location offers its visitors a few different fishing spots in the area where you might have the chance to catch species like snapper, sweetlip, etc, around the area’s rocky and pebble bottoms. In addition to all this, the area's amazing waterways also provide a bunch of recreational and sport fishing opportunities.
Tallebudgera Creek
This beautiful creek is located within the Gold Coast and is one of the most ideal spots for fishing species like bream, flathead and whiting. Moreover, its clear water and accessibility also make it a popular location among both locals as well as travelers.
Etty Bay
This is a coastal town in Queensland with a picturesque beach setting that will offer you the chance to capture species like barramundi, coral trout, mackerel, and more. The ideal time or spot for a smooth experience would be during high tide from the rocky headlands. Outside of being a perfect fishing spot, it is also famous for sighting the endangered cassowary bird.
Lake Awoonga
Just a thirty-minute drive away from Gladstone, Lake Awoonga is a popular spot among anglers for its abundant barramundi population. Not to mention that some of these species can even exceed a meter in length — but these aren’t the only spaces available in the area — it also houses species like mangrove jack as well as saratoga.
Plus, it also has amenities like picnic areas, walking paths, etc. Hence, it is also an excellent spot for anglers who want to experience some night-time fishing. Moreover, having a reliable waterproof power station like BLUETTI AC240 portable power station will help you illuminate the area as well as keep your equipment fully charged.
Cape York Peninsula
Located in Far North Queensland, this is a remote fishing spot where you can catch species like barramundi and Mangrove Jack alongside different pelagic species. Moreover, because of its location and environment, it is an excellent spot for adventurous anglers who are looking for untouched fishing spots.
Bribie Island
This is one of the smallest islands near Moreton Bay. Here, you will have the opportunity to catch a wide variety of fish, which include species like bream, flathead, and whiting. In addition to all this, visitors also have the chance to go offshore and target other species like snappers as well as mackerel.
2) New South Wales
Jervis Bay
This is a 102-square-kilometre oceanic bay as well as a village in the Jervis Bay Territory and on the South Coast of New South Wales. Fishing enthusiasts visiting this area will have a bunch of different opportunities to catch a wide variety of species, which includes snapper, kingfish, and other reef species. Moreover, its clear water is also perfect for spearfishing, which is also a very attractive point for angels who are looking for a challenge as well as variety.
Port Stephens
Just north of Newcastle, Port Stephens is a famous spot for its marlin and tuna fishing — especially during the peak fishing season. Plus, you will also have the opportunity to go estuary fishing, where you can find species like bream and flathead, which also allows for a more catered fishing experience.
Batemans Bay
Here, you will have the opportunity to go estuary and offshore fishing, where you can find species like snapper, kingfish, and flathead. Also, this location is popular for bream fishing, hence making it a versatile spot for all kinds of angels.
Sydney Harbour
This is a unique fishing spot that offers its visitors the chance to go urban fishing. While visiting the area, you will have the chance to capture species like kingfish, bream, and flathead, whereas its offshore reefs will provide you with game fishing options. Thus making it accessible for both casual as well as serious fishing experience.
Woody Head Campground
Located inside Bundjalung National Park, this location provides its users with a protected sandy beach, rock platform, and clear blue waters, which are ideal for fishing. At the sametime, it is also equipped with all the amenities for campers. Making it a perfect location for family-friendly fishing and camping spots.
Clarence River
This location offers its visitors a bunch of different fishing opportunities, which include catching species like flathead, bream, and whiting. In addition to all this, its wide range of habitats makes sure that there is something for everyone, regardless of whether you are a novice or an expert angler.
Mann River
This location is famous for its bass fishing and for being in close proximity to several national parks. The Mann River offers its visitors a unique exercise with a wide range of fishes as well as the opportunity to camp in the area.
Wallaga Lake
Located between Bermagui and Tilba Tilba, this is the largest lake in southern New South Wales. It offers its visitors a bunch of recreational opportunities alongside a wide range of species like bream, flathead and whiting. In addition to this, it is also a beloved location for outdoor enthusiasts who like to sail, bushwalk or birdwatch.
Lake Macquarie
This location is near Newcastle and is a popular spot for recreational fishing. It offers its visitors the chance to go boating, kayaking, and water skiing. Anglers visiting the area can expect to find species like bream, flathead, and whiting in the area.
3) Tasmania
St Helens
Also known as the “Game fishing capital of Tasmania”, this place offers its visitors the chance to catch species like marlin, tuna, and many different reef fish. Moreover, it is also popular for its oysters, which add a unique culinary exercise to angels who are looking for something more than fishing.
Derwent River
A famous estuary location that is excellent for catching species like flathead, bream, and trout. Plus, it also offers a scenic view of the area, which is highly appreciated by nature lovers. It is also near the Tasman Peninsula, which is a location known for game fishing, including bluefin Tuna.
Central Highlands
Housing more than 3,000 lakes. This location is the number one spot for trout fishing in Australia. If you visit this area, you will have the opportunity to catch species like brown trout and rainbow trout in a clean and relaxing environment.
Bay of Fires
Famous for its unique orange rocks and beautiful golden sands, the Bay of Fires provides its users with a diverse range of fishing opportunities. In addition to being an excellent fishing spot, it also offers its visitors scenic beauty and amenities. Hence, it is an ideal spot for camping as well as hiking.
3) South Australia
Port Lincoln
Famous for providing southern bluefin tuna and kingfish, this location offers its visitors the chance to catch alongside recreational fishing and cage diving with great white sharks, allowing for a thrilling experience for anglers who are also looking for thrills.
Glenelg Jetty
This location stays open for 24 hours and is famous for providing its visitors with king george whiting, snapper, as well as blue swimmer crab. Moreover, it also provides accessible fishing opportunities due to its proximity to the city.
4) Western Australia
Steep Point
Located at the westernmost point of mainland Australia, this location is a famous spot for both locals and travellers because of its land-based game fishing, providing a wide range of species like mackerel, sailfish, and trevally.
Shark Bay Marine Park
This marine park houses a diverse marine life, which includes dolphins, dugongs, and various fish species. Inducing species like emperors, cod, coral trout, whiting, mackerel, tuna, etc. Hence, it is a must-visit spot for recreational fishing.
Cooper Reef
This is an artificial reef that was made to increase fish stocks while also providing new and unique ways for anglers to fish. This reef is famous for attracting species like pink snapper and Samson fish and is a beloved location of the local anglers.
5) Victoria
Barwon Heads
This location offers its visitors pictures, landscapes and diverse fishing opportunities. If you visit this area, you can expect to fish species like bream and mulloway or go offshore and catch snapper and king george whiting.
Gippsland Lakes
This is a network of coastal lakes and lagoons that offers anglers a wide range of fishing opportunities, which include bream, mullet, and flathead. In addition to that, it is also a popular spot for tourism and offers animaties, like boating.
FAQ’s
What is the best time for me to go fishing in Australia?
The ideal time depends on the location and species you are looking for, but most of the time, spring and summer are the best choices since they provide favourable conditions for both fresh and saltwater fishing.
Do I need a fishing license to fish in Australia?
Absolutely — most locations in Australia require you to have a recreational fishing license — but rules can differ depending on the location, so it's best to check first.
Which fishing gear should I bring for a fishing trip in Australia?
Other than a fishing rod and bait, make sure that you also bring a tackle box, sun protection, and a cooler for our catch.
