Fishing in Queensland is heaven for anglers. The weather is superb and the fish are fun to catch and make for perfect eating.

But what’s the best spot to fish in QLD? Is the Sunshine State home or the place you set off to when you're looking for warmer days? From the coast to Central Queensland, there are a variety of places for anglers to get their fix. 

“Rocky” (Rockhampton) is soon to be the barramundi capital, with barra measuring in at over a metre long. Lake Moondarra is a favourite backdrop for not only fishing, but all types of adventuring: walking trails, birdwatching, and watersports. 

Do I need a fishing licence in Qld?

The good news is that the answer is “no” for “tidal waters” but you may need one for some dams. 

Any good fisherfolk will realise that you need to adhere to size and catch limits, and observe seasonal closures. 

In recent times, there have been major changes to the catching of Spanish mackerel. For recreational fishers, the possession is down to one fish per person,. On a boat with two or more on board, that limit is two fish per boat.

While we’re talking about serious stuff, remember to be “Croc Wise” if you are fishing in crocodile populated waters. The Queensland Government defines Croc Country as “starting “at the Boyne River south of Gladstone, and extends northward, up the east coast and across far north and north west Queensland to the Northern Territory border. Crocodiles can sometimes also be found outside of croc country.”

Urangan Pier

_{Urangan Pier. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland}

A popular fishing platform for families and seasoned anglers alike, Urangan Pier is a highlight of a holiday in Hervey Bay. Bream and flathead can be caught close to the edge of the pier, garfish makes a grand appearance during summer, and the outer edge offers ample opportunity to catch queenfish (if you've got the right equipment). It's a lucky spot to have in the area, with all sorts of species of fish swimming around the pier. Have a chat with the local bait shop about what’s running hot, the best bait to use and the perfect time to fish. It’s also smart to invest in a pier net.

Stay at Discovery Parks - Fraser Street, Hervey Bay 

Calliope River

_{Calliope River. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland}

The Calliope River, winding through Central Queensland and out into the Pacific Ocean at Gladstone, is a local fishing hotspot. Beecher Bar is the best place to set up and cast a line. Expect blue salmon, trevally, barramundi, whiting, bream, mangrove jack, and more. Pilchard is a better bait to use or fresh prawns, as it's something a bit more meaty for them to sink their teeth into.

Stay at Discovery Parks - Tannum Sands

Fitzroy River

_{Fitzroy River and Barramund. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland}

You think beef's big here? Get a load of the barramundi you'll find around Rockhampton. Especially after floods, barramundi pour into the Fitzroy River. If you've got your eyes on the biggest prize, you will not be let down. The river is known for producing barra as long as a metre - and sometimes even bigger! Try a hard body, brightly coloured lure. Welcome to the soon to be barramundi capital of Australia.

Stay at Discovery Parks - Coolwaters, Yeppoon and Discovery Parks - Rockhampton

Lake Maraboon

_{Fairbairn Dam. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland/Blink Photography}

Lake Maraboon is a known spot to head out to for anglers in Central Queensland. While you can't fish or boat 200m upstream and 400m downstream of the Fairbairn Dam wall, the greater lake area is prime for barramundi and yellowbelly fishing. The yellas are partial to small yabbies but worms will do the trick! Marraboon is also stocked with cod, redclaw crayfish, silver perch, and bass. Enjoy a full day here; scoff down your BBQ lunch at the picnic area, and cool down with a swim before the sun sets.

Stay at Discovery Parks - Blackwater and Discovery Parks - Emerald

Lake Moondarra

_{Lake Moondarra. Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland}

Every year in October, Lake Moondarra is chock-a-block with fishermen keen to win in the Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic. It’s Queensland richest freshwater fishing competition. But this is a year-round fishing destination, perfect for children and adults alike. It’s an easy 20-minute drive from Mt Isa. Rainbowfish, archerfish, perch, and bream are a few of the 20 different types of species that can be caught. The locals of Mt Isa love this getaway of total peace. Peacocks pitter-patter past as you look out over the beautifully blue lake. 

Stay at Discovery Parks - Mount Isa and Discovery Parks - Argylla

Ready, set, fish! Whether you’re after a Mangrove Jack, a Black Bream or a feast of Flathead, you won’t catch one (or a bag) sitting at home on the couch.

Now is the time to book your stay today at one of our Queensland parks for your next fishing holiday.