Mackay is one of the best regions for recreational fishing on the east coast of Australia, if not the best! First, there's an opportunity to enjoy virtually any fishing style you choose.
The magnificent freshwater impoundments stocked with plentiful barramundi as well as other species that will give you some sport. And that's not to mention the redclaw!
The freshwater rivers and creeks can be challenging to go hunting for barramundi and sooty grunter.
The estuaries and saltwater creeks make it easy to collect bait from jigging herring to pumping yabbies. Anglers can choose from fishing from the banks or using a boat to get at the abundant fish that come in spectacular colours, shapes and sizes.
Those with a boat have a choice from reefs just offshore from the coast or those around the nearby islands. And a little further on is the reef proper, notorious for multiple hook-ups of the sought-after red emperors and coral trout and a multitude of other species of reef fish. Mackay is located in the unique position at the meeting point of northern and southern fish species so anglers have the best of both worlds. For those without their own boat there are great charter and tour options and plenty of beach fishing spots.
*** Information on this website has been sourced from the "Successful Fishing and Boating Mackay" Guide. Produced by three locals, Bruce Nash, Greg Camilleri and Brett Griffin it provides a comprehensive guide to the local area to zero in on the best spots for the fish you're targeting.
This guide can be purchased from Northside Fishing Centre, 25 Harbour Road, Ph: 07 4957 2272, Email: nthfish@bigpond.com.au or Reef Marine, 26 Prospect Street, Ph: 07 4957 3521.
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