Top Fishing Destinations in Australia
Australia's vast coastline and diverse aquatic environments make it a haven for fishing enthusiasts. From the tropical waters of the north to the temperate regions in the south, the country offers a plethora of fishing experiences.
Saltwater and Freshwater Fishing
Saltwater fishing in Australia is a thrilling activity, with options like flats, rock, and beach fishing. Game fishing is particularly notable, with species such as marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, and tuna found off the coast. Australia even hosts the largest game fishing tournament in the Southern Hemisphere.
Freshwater fishing offers serene settings in lakes, rivers, and streams. Anglers can pursue trout in the Snowy Mountains or target barramundi in outback billabongs.
Urban areas like Sydney also provide memorable fishing experiences with a variety of species available in the harbor and surrounding waters.
It's important to fish sustainably, adhering to local regulations, seasonal closures, and obtaining the necessary fishing licenses. Local tackle shops are great resources for the latest information on conditions and catches.
Discover the best places to fish in Australia with our guide to the top fishing destinations.
1. Cairns, Queensland
Cairns is renowned as the black marlin capital of the world, with a high percentage of "granders" caught here. The fishing season peaks from September to December. Besides marlin, the waters are teeming with tuna, mahi-mahi, and other species. Cairns offers various fishing charters and has convenient access via its international airport.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Cairns
2. The Top End, Northern Territory
The "Top End" is famous for its barramundi fishing, especially in areas like Darwin and Kakadu National Park. Prime fishing seasons are the "barra build-up" and "barra run-off". The region also offers reef and deep-sea fishing opportunities.
3. Cape York, Queensland
Cape York is a remote fishing paradise, accessible by 4WD or flight from Cairns. It's known for its pristine environment and a variety of fish species, including barramundi and tuna.
4. Exmouth, Western Australia
Exmouth borders the Ningaloo Reef and offers diverse fishing for species like bonefish, trevally, and billfish. The area is also a hotspot for whale sharks.
5. Central Highlands, Tasmania
The Central Highlands of Tasmania are a trout fishing haven with over 3,000 lakes. Arthurs Lake and Great Lake are among the most popular spots.
6. Broome, Western Australia
Broome offers diverse fishing experiences, from barramundi in the creeks to game fish offshore. It's also a gateway to the Kimberley region.
7. Hervey Bay, Queensland
Hervey Bay is known for its clear waters and game fish like trevally and marlin. It's also a prime spot for whale watching.
8. Port Stephens, New South Wales
Port Stephens is a game fishing hotspot, hosting a major tournament annually. It offers a variety of fishing environments and species.
9. Port Lincoln, South Australia
Port Lincoln, on the Eyre Peninsula, is known as the seafood capital of Australia, with rich fishing grounds for species like southern bluefin tuna.
10. Jervis Bay, New South Wales
Jervis Bay offers excellent land-based and boat fishing opportunities, with a variety of game fish available.
11. Gippsland, Victoria
Gippsland boasts diverse fishing environments, from coastal lakes to rivers, with a wide range of fish species.
12. Lake Jindabyne, New South Wales
Lake Jindabyne in the Snowy Mountains is a premier trout-fishing destination, with multiple fishing methods allowed.
13. Sydney Harbour
Sydney Harbour offers diverse fishing experiences with iconic views. The Parramatta River and Botany Bay are also popular spots.
14. Arnhem Land, Northern Territory
Arnhem Land's remote waters provide some of the world's best barramundi fishing, but a permit is required to enter.
15. The Cobourg Peninsula, Northern Territory
The Cobourg Peninsula offers exceptional fishing within Garig Gunak Barlu National Park, but access is limited and permits are required.
For more adventures and travel planning in Australia, visit tripates.com.
