Australia is renowned for its pristine coastlines, which offer a range of fishing charter experiences to suit every taste. From the tropical waters of the North, the temperate waters of the South or to the pristine waters of the West the coastline is dotted with world-class fishing destinations.

In this travel blog, we will explore some of the best fishing charter destinations along the Australian coastline.

Western Australia – the Exmouth and Coral Bay region is regarded by many as Australia’s premier fishing destination.

Exmouth is located on the northwest coast with access to Ningaloo Lagoon, Ningaloo Reef, and the open Indian Ocean. It is a popular destination for game fishing, with a range of fish species including marlin, sailfish, and tuna. The best time to visit Exmouth for fishing is from April to July, when the water temperature is cool, and the fish are active. When booking your fishing charter, be sure to choose a reputable operator that can provide the best experience.

Kimberley & Pilbara Region – Has some of the world’s best fishing on offer – whether it’s landing an iconic barramundi or hunting mud crabs – fishing in the north offers something for all the family. Mud crabs are found from Shark Bay northwards.

Before you go fishing there, please get to know the rules covering more than 180 fish species. For all recreational fishing rules, visit www.fish.wa.gov.au. As travelling and fishing in the Kimberley & Pilbara can be potentially dangerous without adequate planning and preparation.

Broome & Kununurra is located on the northwest coast. It is a popular summer destination for fishing charters, with a range of fish species including Barramundi, Threadfin Salmon and Queenfish. When booking your fishing charter, consider the type of fish you want to catch and choose an operator that can provide the best experience.

Queensland 

The Great Barrier Reef – Cairns is a tropical city located in northern Queensland and is a popular destination for fishing charters. The area is home to some of the world’s most iconic game fish, including Marlin, Tuna, and Sailfish. When planning your trip to Cairns, research the best time to go fishing and choose a reputable operator that can provide the best experience.

Trinity Inlet – a prime spot for Barramundi, Mangrove Jack, Golden Snapper & mud crabs.

Fitzroy Island – take a quick trip across for fishing or spending the day with the family.

Fraser Island [K’Gari] – With estuary, surf, deep sea, reef, and sportfishing available without the need for a license, fishing on K’gari (Fraser Island) is a year-round activity.    The eastern side has popular fishing beaches, with Whiting, Flathead, and Bream swimming close to the sandy shore.

Moreton Bay – The artificial reefs sustain a diversity of fish species and have been designed to benefit a range of fishing techniques—including spearfishing, bottom fishing, and game fishing for pelagic species.

New South Wales

The Tasman Sea is the gathering place of many a species with access to outstanding Billfish action. The rich offshore fisheries attract anglers from all over the world to come out and test their luck. Besides Marlin, there’s a lot more to target in these waters.

Central NSW – popular to fly fishing enthusiasts.  With lake, river, and boat fishing available for a wide variety of species of Trout.  The Blue Mountains provides quality trout waters also.

Rivers & Beaches – Some of the best places for fishing along NSW include the Bermagui River, Jervis Bay, Port Stevens, and Hawkesbury River.

Port Stephens – provides anglers with all aspects of holiday fishing with beach, rock, estuary, and offshore fishing opportunities.  The Continental Shelf from Port Stephens offers anglers the opportunity to fish for Marlin, Bill Fish, Hammerhead Sharks, Trag and other fighting fish.

Jervis Bay- is a popular destination for fishing charters and a range of fish species including Snapper, Kingfish and Flathead. The area is also home to stunning scenery, including white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. When planning your trip, consider combining your fishing charter with other outdoor activities, such as snorkelling or kayaking.

Victoria

Victoria brims with freshwater rivers and lakes, estuaries, inlets, bays, and beaches where you can cast a line, year-round. Offshore fishing grounds offer opportunities to hook into everything from Snapper, King George Whiting, Flathead, Kingfish, Tuna, Salmon, Squid and even Shark.

Tasmania

Right around the coastline from Derwent River, East Coast Region, Tasman Peninsula Region, St Helens Region, North East Coast and Flinders Island, Tamar River, Devonport and Porty Sorell Region, North West Coast, King Island and Macquarie Harbour.  ​​​​​​​​Local knowledge is always your best source for finding out where the fish are biting in Tasmania.

South Australia

From the Far West Coast, down and around to Port MacDonnell, and even inland to the Murray River and across to Kangaroo Island there is a variety of fishing available. Just to name a few.

Coffin Bay – is a popular destination for both beach fishing with Flathead, Whiting, Silver Trevally and fishing charters offering a range of fish species including Snapper, Kingfish, and Tuna. Coffin Bay also provides access to Rocky and Greenly Islands which are well known for their huge Kingfish and Samson Fish.

Port Lincoln – land base fishing at the Town Jetty for Squid, Tommies, Snook, Yellowfin Whiting. While offshore waters offer Southern Bluefin Tuna, Samson Fish, Kingfish, Nannygai, Blue Morwong, Gummy Shark, School Shark, and big King George Whiting.

Yorke Peninsula

Copper Coast – Beach and Jetty Fishing. Swimmer Crabs are the most targeted species. Snook, Garfish, Tommies are also caught from the jetties.

When booking your fishing charter, consider the type of fish you want to catch and choose an operator that can cater to your preferences.

In conclusion, fishing charter holidays along the Australian coastline offer a unique and exciting way to explore some of the country’s most picturesque locations. When planning your trip, research the best fishing destinations and choose a reputable operator that can provide the best experience.
While fishing charters can be an exciting adventure, unexpected events can happen, so it’s always a good idea to invest in travel insurance that covers you for fishing-related activities. Comprehensive travel insurance policies may give you peace of mind during your fishing adventure.
So, before you head off on your next fishing trip, consider purchasing travel insurance through STI Surf Travel Insurance to ensure you’re covered for any unforeseen events.