If you’re thinking about casting a line in Australia, fishing charters are here to help. Whether you’re looking for a freshwater experience in one of the 12,000 rivers or lakes, want to discover the riches of the Great Barrier Reef, or fancy an offshore adventure in the Pacific, professional guides have you covered – from coast to coast!
In the freshwater realm, Australia has plenty of unique species for you to target. Brown and Rainbow Trout live in some mountain streams, while Catfish are available in rivers across the country. Australian Bass and different types of Perch pop up in the east of the country, with Saratoga promising an enviable battle in the north and south. With Murray Cod also on the menu in the southeast, you’re all but guaranteed a tasty treat.
Things only get better when you head towards the ocean. The brackish waters of the north and east of the country hold bucket-list fish, such as Barramundi, Australian Salmon, Queenfish, Flathead and more. Out on the reefs, it’s a who’s who of fish species, with a range of Snappers rubbing shoulders with Mackerel, Trevallies and monstrous Queensland Groper. And that’s before you reach the bluewaters, where Mahi Mahi, Wahoo and Tuna give way to Billfish.
Freshwater trips can take the form of on-foot guided tours or boat expeditions lasting anywhere from half a day upwards. Inshore trips are similar, and these two are best recommended for beginners – although experienced anglers will also enjoy some of the monsters on offer. Reef trips are suitable for everyone, with scuba diving also often included. However, deep sea adventures lasting at least 8 hours are reserved for pros, as you’ll be targeting some of the biggest fish in the world.
Depending on where you are in this vast country, you could set off on your Australian fishing charter from a number of points. Perth, as the largest city in Western Australia, is the best in the west. Darwin is the go-to launching point in the north, while Sydney and Melbourne have plenty to offer in the south. However, if you want a bit of everything, then Cairns and Gold Coast in Queensland are the places to be.
Rules & Regulations
Each territory in Australia has its own laws when it comes to fishing regulations. For example, you’ll need a license to cast a line in NSW, Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory, and Victoria but not elsewhere. Things differ with regards to bag and size limits, too, which is why heading out with a professional fishing charter in Australia is your best bet for staying within the law.