Tropical Sportfisher - 19ft Sportsman Cairns 

5.0
(61 reviews)
 17 Burnett Street, Cairns, QL 4868, Australia–

Tropical Sportfisher - 19ft Sportsman Cairns 

Cairns, QL, Australia
–
19 ft
4
5.0
(61 reviews)

Locally owned and operated, Tropical Sportfisher is a premium guided sportfishing operation based in Cairns, Far North Queensland. Our experienced team of guides—including Rory, Aaron and Oscar—specialise in private lure and fly fishing charters throughout Cairns, Port Douglas and Mission Beach.

Our Cairns Sportsman charter is designed for anglers wanting to experience the best of Cairns' inshore bluewater fishing. Weather permitting, we'll fish tropical islands, reefs, wrecks and coastal headlands targeting Giant Trevally, Queenfish, Golden Trevally, Spanish Mackerel, Longtail Tuna, Coral Trout, Fingermark and other tropical sportfish. We love visual fishing, with surface lures and topwater techniques producing some of the most exciting strikes our fishery has to offer.

If strong winds make the offshore islands unsuitable, we'll simply move into Cairns' sheltered rivers and estuaries. Using the latest Garmin Live Sonar technology, we target Barramundi, Mangrove Jack, Fingermark, while big estuary Giant Trevally and Queenfish provide outstanding topwater fishing throughout the year. Rather than cancelling your trip, we tailor the day to the conditions to give you the best fishing available.

You'll fish aboard our 19-foot Sportsman centre console, equipped with premium electronics, Minn Kota trolling motor and quality safety equipment.

Every charter is completely private, allowing your guide to customise the day to your experience level, fishing style and prevailing conditions. We provide premium Shimano tackle, fly-fishing equipment on request, quality lures, lunch, cold drinks and complimentary Cairns CBD pick-up and drop-off.

Just bring sun protection, polarised sunglasses and a sense of adventure—we'll take care of the rest.

Locally owned and operated, Tropical Sportfisher is a premium guided sportfishing operation based in Cairns, Far North Queensland. Our experienced team of guides—including Rory, Aaron and Oscar—specialise in private lure and fly fishing charters throughout Cairns, Port Douglas and Mission Beach.

Our Cairns Sportsman charter is designed for anglers wanting to experience the best of Cairns' inshore bluewater fishing. Weather permitting, we'll fish tropical islands, reefs, wrecks and coastal headlands targeting Giant Trevally, Queenfish, Golden Trevally, Spanish Mackerel, Longtail Tuna, Coral Trout, Fingermark and other tropical sportfish. We love visual fishing, with surface lures and topwater techniques producing some of the most exciting strikes our fishery has to offer.

If strong winds make the offshore islands unsuitable, we'll simply move into Cairns' sheltered rivers and estuaries. Using the latest Garmin Live Sonar technology, we target Barramundi, Mangrove Jack, Fingermark, while big estuary Giant Trevally and Queenfish provide outstanding topwater fishing throughout the year. Rather than cancelling your trip, we tailor the day to the conditions to give you the best fishing available.

You'll fish aboard our 19-foot Sportsman centre console, equipped with premium electronics, Minn Kota trolling motor and quality safety equipment.

Every charter is completely private, allowing your guide to customise the day to your experience level, fishing style and prevailing conditions. We provide premium Shimano tackle, fly-fishing equipment on request, quality lures, lunch, cold drinks and complimentary Cairns CBD pick-up and drop-off.

Just bring sun protection, polarised sunglasses and a sense of adventure—we'll take care of the rest.

Tropical Sportfisher
Charter Operator
Tropical Sportfisher
10 years of experience
ID & credentials verified

Select date to see availability

Trip date:
Group Size:
November 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
Group Size
2 adults • 0 children
Change
Half Day 19ft Sportsman Lure or Fly
In high demand Last booked: 3 days ago
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
5 hour trip starts at 6:30 AM
Trevally (Giant)
Barramundi
Queenfish
Snapper (Red Emperor)
+4
US $851
Entire boat: up to 4 people
Full Day 19ft Sportsman Lure or Fly
FREE Cancellation 7 days notice
9 hour trip starts at 6:30 AM
Trevally (Giant)
Barramundi
Queenfish
Trevally (Golden)
+4
US $1,192
Entire boat: 2 people

Customer reviews

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Rating

5.0
61 reviews
5.0
Boat & equipment
5.0
Captain & crew
5.0
Fishing Experience

Anglers' gallery (172)

What anglers say

93%
Great experience
77%
Family friendly
100%
Friendly captain
100%
Good boat
100%
Recommended
69%
Caught fish

Reviews (61)

  • Connor Beer-korver
    Connor Beer-korver
    Repeat angler
    au
    Australia
    Member since 2026
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    highly recommend

    Full Day Trip–River and Estuary on July 22, 2026 • 2 adults

    Oscar took us out in some pretty rainy conditions. despite the weather we still ended up catching a 80cm barra! was beyond stoked. if it wasnt for the rain we would have cleaned up!

  • Julie Sutton
    Julie Sutton
    Repeat angler
    us
    Oregon, US
    Member since 2024
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    Fantastic fishing trip!

    Full Day Trip–River and Estuary on July 2, 2026 • 2 adults

    Rory was a great guide. We caught some really nice fish. All his gear was top notch. It was a wonderful trip and we'd fish with him again if we come back!

  • Jason Halgas
    Jason Halgas
    us
    Nevada, US
    Member since 2025
    5.0
    Verified

    Rory was great!

    Full Day Trip–River and Estuary on December 2, 2025 • 2 adults

    great trip great fish! highly recomend Rory from tropicalsportFisher super chill down to earth guide🎣

  • Shawn Barndt
    Shawn Barndt
    Repeat angler
    us
    Oregon, US
    Member since 2025
    2 trips
    5.0
    Verified

    It was a trophy day!

    Full Day Trip–River and Estuary on March 7, 2025 • 2 adults

    We booked with Rory to celebrate my husband’s birthday and we had a trophy day! My husband really enjoys fishing but had never fished for barramundi or queen fish; and I don’t fish very often, but Rory’s expertise and knowledge helped us catch trophy size fish! We felt right at home with Rory, and his down to earth approach helped us have a very enjoyable time. It was icing on the cake to identify some unique wildlife, and to spot a large croc on the bank! We would book another day in a heartbeat, if there were any openings during our stay!

  • Conor Hynes
    Conor Hynes
    au
    Australia
    Member since 2024
    5.0
    Verified

    Unreal Experience!!

    5 Hour Trip – Inshore Bluewater on March 26, 2024 • 2 adults

    Fishing, Sharks, Crocodiles and the rest!! From moment one Rory was helpful and insightful. Picked us up from our hotel with boat in tow. Spent the first 20 minutes showing us crocodile hot spots. From there we were immediately onto some queen fish and GT. the action was non stop, Rory was very insightful. We managed a full boat of fish, lost a few to the sharks which added some extra excitement as we seen bull sharks come right up to the surface! Rory supplied food and drinks and plenty of conversation! Beautiful scenes from sunny tropical islands and mangroves. I’m more experienced but my dad is a novice which didn’t make the slightest difference, Rory taught us both the same on how to use the tackle needed and got us on the fish. I’ll be booking on again next time I’m in cairns as a must!

  • Bryan Barnett
    Bryan Barnett
    au
    Australia
    Member since 2023
    5.0
    Verified

    Out-fished by the missus!

    Full Day Trip–Inshore Bluewater on September 29, 2023 • 2 adults

    Fishing with Rory was a blast! This guy knows his stuff. First off, he's super chill and easy to talk to, making the whole experience laid-back and enjoyable. Rory didn't sugarcoat anything – he knew the fishing was going to be tough that day, but he managed our expectations like a pro. His local knowledge was like having a secret weapon – he took us to all the right spots and managed to catch my missus her first salt water fish and backed it up with a second. Even though I didn’t catch any myself, as a keen cod angler, we were stoked to see crocs, and get tips on the local wonders that are must-see. Plus, Rory was totally prepared for anything that came our way. Gear, snacks, you name it – he had it covered. And the best part? He's just a good bloke, plain and simple. He persisted and worked hard to try and get me a fish but I was happy as just spending the day in the boat. If you want a fun day on the water with a top-notch guide, Rory's your guy. Highly recommended and keen to book again!

  • Harry Crispin
    Harry Crispin
    au
    Australia
    Member since 2024
    5.0
    Verified

    Amazing charter, with an absolute legend.

    Full Day Trip–Inshore Bluewater on July 18, 2024 • 1 adult

    Rory is a legend, he knows the creeks and rivers like the back of he’s hand put me onto some awesome fish and always had something in store next. The boat was super comfy and all the gear was top notch got onto some big fish without an issue. Food and drink was great kept me hydrated and fed all day, Couldn’t recommend this bloke highly enough absolutely brilliant worth every cent.

  • Heather Stott-wrathall
    Heather Stott-wrathall
    au
    Australia
    Member since 2024
    5.0
    Verified

    10/10 experience highly recommend

    Full Day Trip–River and Estuary on June 7, 2024 • 1 adult

    I booked the full day fishing trip for my boyfriends 40th…I have never fished before and Rory was a brilliant guide, very knowledgeable about the fish and wildlife… very down to earth and a good laugh! We caught Barra and trevlly. Seen crocs and the scenery was something else! My boyfriend was really happy and we are definitely going to book the 3 day tour next time!

  • Dylan Spencer
    Dylan Spencer
    au
    Australia
    Member since 2024
    5.0
    Verified

    Absolutely spewing!

    5 Hour Trip – Inshore Bluewater on August 23, 2024 • 2 adults

    Absolutely spewing I didn’t opt for a whole day charter! Rory is a great bloke easy conversation and easy to find common ground with a fellow angler. Hoping in the next few days someone cancels just so I can get on the boat again before I leave cairns. Thanks again mate hope to see ya soon!

  • Chris Hansord
    Chris Hansord
    au
    Australia
    Member since 2024
    5.0
    Verified

    Highly Reccomend, Rory knows his stuff👌

    Half Day 19ft Sportsman Lure or Fly on May 6, 2024 • 2 adults

    We did a half day fishing with Rory from Cairns, He was very knowledgable, had a heap of tricks up his sleeve. Very tidy boat and good quality fishing gear. Rory put us onto a great topwater session on queenfish. Bonus points for spotting a couple of crocs on the way back to the ramp. Would definately reccomend.

FAQs about Tropical Sportfisher - 19ft Sportsman Cairns

Tropical Sportfisher - 19ft Sportsman Cairns offers the following trips to customers:
  • AU $1,250 per group - Half Day 19ft Sportsman Lure or Fly (5 hours)
  • AU $1,650 per group, additional AU $100 per person after 1 guest - Full Day 19ft Sportsman Lure or Fly (9 hours)
When you book a trip with Tropical Sportfisher - 19ft Sportsman Cairns, you can expect the following amenities onboard:
  • GPS Garmin 8416
  • Fishfinder Garmin 8416 Live Scope& Humminbird Solix 12
  • Snorkeling equipment
  • Wireless trolling motor Minn Kota 112 lb Pilot
  • Ice box YETI
Trips booked with Tropical Sportfisher - 19ft Sportsman Cairns include:
  • Rods, reels & tackle
  • Lures
  • Snacks (We generally have muesli bars and crisps on board, lunch is also provided on full day charters. Lunch is either a fresh wrap or sandwich. )
  • Drinks (Bottled water is supplied along with soft drinks, these are included in the trip price. if you have your own water bottle please bring it along.)
  • Fishing license (Relevant fishing licenses are included in the trip cost and cover all guests)
  • Lunch (We provide lunch on our full day tours , the lunch is generally a freaky made wrap or sandwich with ham, chick or beef and fresh salad. Please advise if you have a preference or specific dietary requirements )
  • Fly fishing equipment
Tropical Sportfisher - 19ft Sportsman Cairns offers the following types of fishing:
  • River fishing (Cairns inlet, Mossman river, Russel river, Mulgrave river, Liverpool creek, Johnstone rivers)
  • Lake fishing (Lake Tinaroo, Barramundi)
  • Inshore fishing (Inshore bluewater, weather permitting.)
  • Nearshore fishing (Tropical Islands, Weather Permitting)
  • Offshore fishing (Our vessel is in 2c restricted survey , our blue water trip we fish around the inshore islands and inshore reefs and wrecks. We do not operate day charters to the Great Barrier Reef )
  • Reef fishing
  • Wreck fishing (Weather permittng)
  • Flats fishing (Coastal and Island Flats)
  • Backcountry fishing (Rainforest Back Country walk and Wade)
Tropical Sportfisher - 19ft Sportsman Cairns offers the following fishing techniques:
  • Light tackle
  • Spinning
  • Jigging
  • Popping
  • Fly fishing
Top targeted fish species with Tropical Sportfisher - 19ft Sportsman Cairns include:
  • Barramundi
  • Bream (Fingermark)
  • Coral Trout
  • Milkfish
  • Queenfish
  • Snapper (Mangrove Red)
  • Snubnose Pompano
  • Threadfin Salmon
  • Trevally (Giant)
  • Trevally (Golden)
  • Tuna (Bluefin)
  • Tuna (Skipjack)

Your operator

Tropical Sportfisher
Tropical Sportfisher
Cairns, Queensland, Australia
ID & license verified
71 Customer reviews
Typical response within 4 hours
Member since January 2020
I've been fishing in North Queensland for over 30 years. I grew up fishing for Jungle Perch and Sooty Grunter along the banks of the Mulgrave River, which eventually developed into an obsession with Barramundi fishing. I then moved on to targeting big Barramundi, which became my passion and way of life for many years. These days, other guides follow me around trying to find my Barramundi spots! I started guiding to spend more time fishing and work in an industry I love. I've guided throughout Australia's Top End for sportfishing lodges and multiple luxury mothership operations. I'm very fortunate to have grown up in the Far North Queensland region, with access to so many different sportfishing opportunities and the remote backcountry right on my doorstep.
Our Team
Aaron B.
Aaron B.
Captain
Oscar M.
Oscar M.
Captain
Rory B.
Rory B.
Business partner
Rory B.
Rory B.
Captain
Tropical Sportfisher
Tropical Sportfisher
Fully verified
71
reviews
2020
member since
~4h
response
I've been fishing in North Queensland for over 30 years. I grew up fishing for Jungle Perch and Sooty Grunter along the banks of the Mulgrave River, which eventually developed into an obsession with Barramundi fishing. I then moved on to targeting big Barramundi, which became my passion and way of life for many years. These days, other guides follow me around trying to find my Barramundi spots! I started guiding to spend more time fishing and work in an industry I love. I've guided throughout Australia's Top End for sportfishing lodges and multiple luxury mothership operations. I'm very fortunate to have grown up in the Far North Queensland region, with access to so many different sportfishing opportunities and the remote backcountry right on my doorstep.
The crew
Aaron B.
Aaron B.
Captain
Oscar M.
Oscar M.
Captain
Rory B.
Rory B.
Business partner
Rory B.
Rory B.
Captain

The fish you can target

Barramundi
Barramundi
Fingermark Bream
Fingermark Bream
Coral Trout
Coral Trout
Milkfish
Milkfish
Queenfish
Queenfish
Mangrove Red Snapper
Mangrove Red Snapper
Snubnose Pompano
Snubnose Pompano
Threadfin Salmon
Threadfin Salmon
Giant Trevally
Giant Trevally
Golden Trevally
Golden Trevally
Bluefin Tuna
Bluefin Tuna
Skipjack Tuna
Skipjack Tuna
Barramundi
Barramundi
Fingermark Bream
Fingermark Bream
Coral Trout
Coral Trout
Milkfish
Milkfish
Queenfish
Queenfish

Real catches by this captain

  • Angler proudly displaying a large Barramundi while fishing on a boat in a scenic waterway.
    Connor B.
    Connor B.
    Oscar took us out in some pretty rainy conditions. despite the weather we still ended up catching a 80cm barra! was beyond stoked. if it wasnt for the rain we would have cleaned up!
  • A young angler proudly displaying a large Trevally while fishing on a boat in a scenic coastal environment.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    +1
    Giant Trevally
    Julie S.
    Julie S.
    Rory was a great guide. We caught some really nice fish. All his gear was top notch. It was a wonderful trip and we'd fish with him again if we come back!
  • An angler proudly displaying a large Barracuda while fishing in a scenic river environment.
    Fish 1
    Pacific Barracuda
    Jason H.
    Jason H.
    great trip great fish! highly recomend Rory from tropicalsportFisher super chill down to earth guide🎣
  • A young angler proudly displaying a large Grey Snapper while fishing on a sunny day in open waters.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Giant Trevally
    Ailin L.
    Ailin L.
    Works hard to put you on fish. Had a blast hooking plenty of fish all day. Rory was honest about expectations and will do what he has to do to get you on the fish. I had a great time as a solo F angler.
  • An enthusiastic angler proudly displaying a large fish while on a scenic fishing trip in a lush coastal environment.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    +1
    Coral Trout
    Seya S.
    Seya S.
    Rorry!!! You're not only a great angler but also a fantastic and friendly guy! We felt very comfortable from the start and received excellent service from you, with good food and drinks, and some beautiful fish! We'd love to come back again!!! Best guide in Queensland!
  • An angler casting a line while fishing in a serene river setting, surrounded by lush mountains.
    Fish 1
    Fish 2
    Giant Trevally
    Steve J.
    Steve J.
    We had a great session today with Rory, caught a few fish and he worked very hard to get us to various locations. His boat was fully equipped with the latest equipment and technology and he takes great pride in his business. We will certainly head out with him again and highly recommend to anyone to spend some time with Captain Rory.
  • Two anglers proudly displaying a large Amberjack while fishing in a scenic coastal environment.
    Shawn B.
    Shawn B.
    We booked with Rory to celebrate my husband’s birthday and we had a trophy day! My husband really enjoys fishing but had never fished for barramundi or queen fish; and I don’t fish very often, but Rory’s expertise and knowledge helped us catch trophy size fish! We felt right at home with Rory, and his down to earth approach helped us have a very enjoyable time. It was icing on the cake to identify some unique wildlife, and to spot a large croc on the bank! We would book another day in a heartbeat, if there were any openings during our stay!
  • A scenic view of a river surrounded by lush mountains under a cloudy sky, creating a tranquil fishing environment.
    Fish 1
    Giant Trevally
    Dylan S.
    Dylan S.
    Absolutely spewing I didn’t opt for a whole day charter! Rory is a great bloke easy conversation and easy to find common ground with a fellow angler. Hoping in the next few days someone cancels just so I can get on the boat again before I leave cairns. Thanks again mate hope to see ya soon!
  • Angler smiling while holding a large fish, likely a Jack Crevalle, on a rainy day in a scenic fishing spot.
    Fish 1
    Giant Trevally
    Jr D.
    Jr D.
    It was an absolute blast! I didn’t catch any fish but I had a great time. We were limited to the river due to the weather. I recommend trying to plan your trip according to the weather(which I didn’t), either way a great time! Really great guy and very helpful! Picked us up and dropped us off which was very nice. I would 100% recommend this tour if you have the chance to do it!
  • Close-up of a large fish with a lure in its mouth, resting on the deck of a boat.
    Fish 1
    Giant Trevally
    Gary B.
    Gary B.
    Rory is a great guy and knows what he's doing. Our GT double header on poppers will be remembered.

What is the boat like?

Boat image
Boat category
Center console boats
Capacity
4 persons
Boat length
19 ft
Year built
2024
Boat manufacturer
Sportsman
Boat type
Center console
Engine model
Yamaha
Powered by
1 x 150HP
Max cruising speed
30 knots

What kind of fishing will you do?

River Fishing
Lake Fishing
Inshore Fishing
Nearshore Fishing
Offshore Fishing
Reef Fishing
Wreck Fishing
Flats Fishing
Backcountry Fishing

Which fishing techniques you can try

Light Tackle
Spinning
Jigging
Popping
Fly Fishing

Which amenities are available onboard

GPS
Garmin 8416
Fishfinder
Garmin 8416 Live Scope& Humminbird Solix 12
Snorkeling equipment
Wireless trolling motor
Minn Kota 112 lb Pilot
Ice box
YETI
What's included in the trip price
Rods, reels & tackle
Lures
Snacks
We generally have muesli bars and crisps on board, lunch is also provided on full day charters. Lunch is either a fresh wrap or sandwich.
Drinks
Bottled water is supplied along with soft drinks, these are included in the trip price. if you have your own water bottle please bring it along.
Fishing license
Relevant fishing licenses are included in the trip cost and cover all guests
Lunch
We provide lunch on our full day tours , the lunch is generally a freaky made wrap or sandwich with ham, chick or beef and fresh salad. Please advise if you have a preference or specific dietary requirements
Fly fishing equipment

How cancellations work

Free cancellation up to 7 days prior to trip
You can cancel or modify your booking up to 7 days before the trip date, free of charge. If you cancel or modify your booking later, or fail to show up, you'll forfeit 100% of what you've paid.
More details

What the listing policies are

Pickup included in price
Transfer from hotels or jetties in Cairns to departure site is available and included in trip rates.
Child friendly
5 years and older, 12 year or younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Catch and release mandatory
We only offer catch and release fishing, we handle the fish with care and keep them out of water for as little time as possible.

How you can pay

Book with 10% deposit, pay rest to captain
When the captain confirms your trip, FishingBooker charges your credit card a 10% deposit to guarantee your reservation.
The remaining balance is to be paid directly to the charter operator on or prior to your trip date in one of the following payment methods:
 Cash
 Visa
 Mastercard
 American Express
 PayPal
 Bank transfer
When paying the remaining balance with a credit card, an additional 5% charge will apply.

What’s biting in Cairns right now

BarramundiBarramundi
QueenfishQueenfish
Threadfin SalmonThreadfin Salmon
Trevally (Giant)Trevally (Giant)
Trevally (Golden)Trevally (Golden)
Tuna (Bluefin)Tuna (Bluefin)

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Tropical Sportfisher - 19ft Sportsman Cairns
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5.0
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19 ft
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US $851