Cairns Fishing Charters

18 Fishing Charters

Cairns Fishing Charters

Search top fishing charters in Cairns
Cairns: 18 fishing charters available
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(428 reviews)
Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(4 reviews)
Cairns
trips from $2,613
Cairns
trips from $2,382
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(2 reviews)
Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(42 reviews)
Cairns
Cairns
trips from $2,514
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(17 reviews)
Yorkeys Knob
 Instant Confirmation
trips from $265
Excellent
4.8 / 5
(12 reviews)
Cairns
trips from $2,130
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(1 review)
Cairns

Frequently Asked Questions about Fishing Charters in Cairns

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular fishing charters in Cairns, Queensland are: Full list of top fishing charters in Cairns

The average price for a private 4 hour Cairns fishing trip is $452, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you $1,143 based on prices on FishingBooker.com.

Fishing charters in Cairns that received great reviews from families are:

The top 3 fish species targeted on guided fishing trips in Cairns are:

The top 3 fishing techniques in Cairns are:

The top 3 types of fishing in Cairns are:

Many fishing charters in Cairns provide rods, reels and tackle. Some of the top rated are:

According to customer reviews on FishingBooker.com, some of the best rated charter captains in Cairns are:

Some of the fishing trips offered by fishing charters in Cairns are:
  • Extended fishing trips โ€“ $3,829
  • 4-hour fishing trips โ€“ $459
  • 5-hour fishing trips โ€“ $563
  • 7-hour fishing trips โ€“ $800
  • 8-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,470
  • 9-hour fishing trips โ€“ $913
  • 10-hour fishing trips โ€“ $3,220
  • 11-hour fishing trips โ€“ $3,795
  • 16-hour fishing trips โ€“ $1,750

The area around Cairns is often referred to as ‘the number one game fishing region on the planet.’ Go there, and you will see why. The tropical landscape of North Queensland is home to one of the most diverse fisheries in the world. But not only does Cairns fishing equal a huge quantity of fish species, it also boasts incredibly good quality fishing. It’s not fair on all the other fishing destinations, really.

Known For

Angler or not, you probably know of Cairns as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. This vibrant city’s tourist season revolves around Great Barrier Reef tours and diving trips, which will take you up close and personal to the only structure made of living organisms that can be seen from space. But for serious sport fishing anglers, this part of the Great Barrier Reef means only one thing: Black Marlin, and big ones. One of the primary breeding grounds for the species, this one of the few places in the world where Marlin weighing over 1000 lbs are consistently caught, year after year. 

Every year from September to December, anglers flock to the area between Cairns and Lizard Island to experience what is arguably the best Black Marlin fishing in Australia - or even the world. Ever since American angler Richard C Obach hooked a 1064 lb Black Marlin on 80 lb line here in 1996, Cairns has become synonymous with legendary sport fishing. Now, all you need to do to hook your own 'grander' is to find a local captain aboard that perfect fishing charter Cairns has waiting for you.

But the offshore reefs aren’t the only good fishing spots in Cairns. The area’s pristine estuaries and tropical waterways are the perfect breeding grounds for firm Australian fishing favorites such as Barramundi, Mangrove Jack, and Fingermark. Just five minutes from the heart of the city, Trinity Inlet marks the beginning of 90 km of beautiful winding waterways just waiting to be explored. Daintree River is less than an hour and a half away, while beach fishing can see you sight casting to schools of Golden Trevally.

From Cairns' booming popularity as Australia's new fly fishing central, all the way to heavy tackle fishing for everyone's favorite pelagics, there's something in store for everyone here. And to all you die-hard Barramundi lovers, looking for that perfect fishery to indulge in your obsession - welcome home.

Rules & Regulations

No license is necessary for recreational fishing in Queensland tidal waters, but licenses may be required if fishing in some stocked impoundments. There is an annual closed season for Barramundi, which runs from the first of November through the first of February.

Types of Fishing

Heavy tackle fishing for Black Marlin flourishes from September through December. Marlin charters are often booked well in advance and will traditionally involve trolling with large bait - Rainbow Runner, Queenfish, Tuna, and Mackerel typically make up the menu.

Try your hand at light tackle Marlin fishing from July to August - if you want to tackle a Billfish on 12-20 lb line, this is your chance. Trolling with rigged baits will also get you in a good place to battle Wahoo, Spanish Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, Barracuda, Trevally, Sailfish and more for some serious light tackle fun.

Looking for an even greater challenge? Try to set a new heavy tackle fly fishing record in the capable hands of a knowledgeable local captain. As far as fishery and local knowledge are concerned, this is one of the best places in the world to enter the record books.

Less ambitious anglers are bound to enjoy Great Barrier Reef fishing, which will usually involve ‘bottom bouncing’ with 60-100 lb line for delicious and colourful species such as Nannygai, Red Emperor, and Coral Trout.

As if this wasn't enough, finish your day by fishing the beaches for Mangrove Jack, Flathead, Trevally, Barramundi, Fingermark, and more. Hey, we told you this fishery was diverse.

Cairns
Excellent
4.2 / 5
Based on 27942 reviews by FishingBooker anglers

January

January in Cairns is HOT. Humidity is high and the rainy season peaks, making for impressive bites in creeks and estuaries. Offshore, make the most of the pelagic bite or target GT around the reefs.

February

The rainy season continues, with water temperature high at an average of 29ºC. Barramundi season reopens after a seasonal closure since November, and Yellowfin Tuna and Wahoo are making waves offshore.

March

With the aftermath of heavy flood rains, March sees rivers and estuaries stocked with tasty prawns - and plenty of hungry fish. Make the most of the Mangrove Jack and Threadfin bite as they fatten up for winter.

April

While Cairns' tropical location doesn't really see a winter as such, it does see slightly cooler weather from April to August. This is great for Queenfish and Trevally fishing, with reef fishing also good.

May

With the rainy season now far behind, May in Cairns sees pleasant temperatures. Fishing is good over the reefs, with Red Emperor, Nannygai, and Coral Trout making for delicious and beautiful catches.

June

Thanks to lower humidity, reasonable temperatures, and low rainfall, this is peak tourist season. Escape the crowds and target a huge Spanish Mackerel offshore. The majority of fishing done at this time of year is inside the reef.

July

July is the beginning of the light tackle Marlin season in Cairns, when juvenile Black Marlin can be caught near the reef. Don't miss the Cairns Blue Water Billfish Tournament to show off your skills.

August

Light tackle Marlin season continues, with reef fish also biting well still. Offshore, the Wahoo bite picks up and will remain good through December. Peak tourist season continues.

September

Spring arrives, and with it comes humidity, which will build up until the rainy season arrives in December. Heavy tackle season starts as female Black Marlin come to the reef to spawn. 

October

Cairns is bustling with Marlin fishing charters, as visitors come from far and wide in the hope of catching a Marlin weighing over 1000 lbs. Inshore, Barramundi are biting actively. Mahi, GT, and Tuna are also caught.

November

Barramundi season closes until February. Billfishing remains excellent, with Sailfish being added to the mix of catches. The reef comes alive as the coral spawns and swimmers need to watch out for jellyfish.

December

This is the month for a Billifsh Slam, with Blue Marlin joining Black Marlin and Sailfish on potential catch lists. The wet season begins and will last through February. Don't let a soaking put you off!

Cairns fishing calendar

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Great way to see the inlet & fish whatever the tide. You might see a crocodile. Minimal travel time.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Great way to see the inlet & fish whatever the tide. You might see a crocodile. Minimal travel time.
Douglas  F.
Douglas F.
Yes. We had a great time even though we did not have any prior experience.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Yes. We had a great time even though we did not have any prior experience.
Matteo  H.
Matteo H.
Mornings are best for the wind, choose your target fish and charter to suit.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Mornings are best for the wind, choose your target fish and charter to suit.
Dom  S.
Dom S. Foxborough, MA
Be prepared for all types of weather and that any catch is a good catch. We went in May and this day was cloudy and the temp had dropped. It was an estuary morning half day trip, I caught a Blue Salmon..other species caught on the trip were Trevally, Mangrove Jack and Grunter. So although the dream was of a Barramundi...just remember to enjoy the thrill, the company and that each day brings a different catch!
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Be prepared for all types of weather and that any catch is a good catch. We went in May and this day was cloudy and the temp had dropped. It was an estuary morning half day trip, I caught a Blue Salmon..other species caught on the trip were Trevally, Mangrove Jack and Grunter. So although the dream was of a Barramundi...just remember to enjoy the thrill, the company and that each day brings a different catch!
Maria  T.
Maria T. Sydney, New South Wales
If you are planning to take cached fish back, ensure you make arrangements to transport it in the car. You may not get good bags and blood may drip from the given bags to take the the catch home at the end of the trip.
Very good
4.0 / 5
If you are planning to take cached fish back, ensure you make arrangements to transport it in the car. You may not get good bags and blood may drip from the given bags to take the the catch home at the end of the trip.
Fernando  R.
Fernando R. Melbourne, Victoria
Book a private charter with one that caters to your numbers. Highly recommend Gone Fishing charter. I think they can take up to 8 but check that
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Book a private charter with one that caters to your numbers. Highly recommend Gone Fishing charter. I think they can take up to 8 but check that
Rida  B.
Rida B. Quincy, MA
Eat light before going on the water and when you are on the water, drink coffee.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Eat light before going on the water and when you are on the water, drink coffee.
Campbell  R.
Campbell R. Brisbane, Queensland
Any fishing is luck of the draw , some days your lucky some your not , its all about being on the water and relaxing, taking in the new experience
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Any fishing is luck of the draw , some days your lucky some your not , its all about being on the water and relaxing, taking in the new experience
Rob  P.
Rob P. Huntington, VT
Relax and have a good time learn the ways of the experienced angler like the captain
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Relax and have a good time learn the ways of the experienced angler like the captain
Trevor  P.
Trevor P. Brisbane, QLD
Must book this fella had an awesome day even had home made muffins very nice indeed ! 10/10
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Must book this fella had an awesome day even had home made muffins very nice indeed ! 10/10
Robert  G.
Robert G. Lewisham, TAS
Make sure you use Paradise Sportfishing Adventures.. A great way to see the Cairns waterway inlets and catch your live bait before you fish..
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Make sure you use Paradise Sportfishing Adventures.. A great way to see the Cairns waterway inlets and catch your live bait before you fish..
David  M.
David M. Woolloongabba, QLD
Go with a pro, they work hard to put in the best position to catch quality fish
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Go with a pro, they work hard to put in the best position to catch quality fish
Alan  M.
Alan M. Palm Beach, QLD
Fishing without a boat can be difficult. However, doing some research beforehand can result in some success.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Fishing without a boat can be difficult. However, doing some research beforehand can result in some success.
Bohdan  K.
Bohdan K. Macleod, VIC
Summer months are better however if you are there in winter, hook up with Justin & All Tackle Sportfishing.
Excellent
5.0 / 5
Summer months are better however if you are there in winter, hook up with Justin & All Tackle Sportfishing.
Steve  K.
Steve K. Adelaide, South Australia

All Tackle Sportfishing
All Tackle Sportfishing
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(75 reviews)
Through no fault of Justin, our capt, we caught a few small fish but the keepers eluded us. Justin got some really good bait for us but sometime you just cannot make them eat. We enjoyed the great waterways of Cairns and Justin is knowledgeable about both the fishing and area. We enjoyed his company and would recommend him.
Mitch  F.
Mitch F.
Tropical Sportfisher
Tropical Sportfisher
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(42 reviews)
I highly recommend Rory's Tropical Sportfisher outfit. Rory is friendly and goes the extra mile to get the angler into the right situation to give them the best opportunity at securing the fish of a lifetime.
Ryan  B.
Ryan B.
Paradise Sportfishing Adventures
Paradise Sportfishing Adventures
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
4.7 / 5
(198 reviews)
We had a great day out. Captain gave lots of info and had lots of live bait. The time flew by and we caught two great fish!
Justin  S.
Justin S.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
4.3 / 5
(428 reviews)
My family and I went for a day of fishing and it was our 1st fishing trip together. Got up early and it was thankfully a beautiful day. We caught 2 fish and one eel (which we got rid of very quickly!) Our skipper was very frienfly and helping us to put on our bait and to cast properly. The fish we took home was even filleted for us and ready to cook. Overall a very good trip!
INGE  T.
INGE T.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(428 reviews)
Good half day charter caught fish and seen a crocodile. Young lad was very knowledgeable and a good captain . Would recommend the charter to friends.
Bradley  W.
Bradley W.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(428 reviews)
Would highly recommend this fishing trip to anyone travelling to Cairns. The skipper is so friendly and accomodating. He gave clear instructions pre trip and even arranged a local restaurant ln the esplanade to cook our fish which was amazing. Thank you for a great day out.
Jennifer  H.
Jennifer H.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(428 reviews)
No fish ha ha but the young captain was amazing and so friendly would highly recommend this tour
John  O.
John O.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(428 reviews)
Had a great time Captain Jacob was very informative knew his stuff. He looked after us very well would go with Jacob again no problem
Craig  C.
Craig C.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(428 reviews)
A real FNQ character - get him talking about his other outdoor experiences! Fuss-free, helpful fishing
Douglas  F.
Douglas F.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(428 reviews)
we had a great time! the weather held up and was great, we all had a lovely time. Thanks so much.
Sheina  M.
Sheina M.
Paradise Sportfishing Adventures
Paradise Sportfishing Adventures
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(198 reviews)
We had a blast with John!! We caught two finger jacks, one giant trevally, and one golden trevally (above 6 kgs I believe)! The scenery at the inlet was beautiful. We learnt about fishing in general and the mangrove area! The boat was clean and tidy. Highly recommended!
Matteo  H.
Matteo H.
Australian Black Marlin Charters
Australian Black Marlin Charters
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(4 reviews)
Was a great trip. The crew was great worked very hard for us. Food was great Captain and crew did lots of preparation so we get that Marlin. I would definitely do this again. At night we stayed behind the reef they baited our poles was catching fish at the reef one right after the other!
Michael  M.
Michael M.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(428 reviews)
Was an awsome fishing trip, Jacob was very knowledgeable and knew all the good spots.
Brett  C.
Brett C.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(428 reviews)
Thank you captain Jacob for a fantastic morning of fishing. Your knowledge of the waters and first class service is impressive and we are so lucky to have caught some beauties. Highly recommend and will be back again next year
Jennifer  L.
Jennifer L.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(428 reviews)
Awesome morning fishing, thanks Jacob we loved it! Will definitely be back๐Ÿ‘
Clint  H.
Clint H.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
4.3 / 5
(428 reviews)
I booked an all day charter with Jacob, which included myself and my three young sons. We caught a number of different species. The highlight being the two mangrove jacks caught by my two oldest boys and two large bream caught my youngest. Great experience, would highly recommend. Darren
Darren  D.
Darren D.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(428 reviews)
Great time We caught the big one that got away after 30 minute fight to bring it in It cut the line away it went What fun !!!!! Then I caught the ugliest fish Iโ€™ve ever seen . Lots of fun
Sheila  H.
Sheila H.
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(428 reviews)
Thank you Jacob for a truly great day. We will be recommending you to all our southern friends heading north. Best wishes to you, from Captain Storme, Helen and Alfred.
Helen  S.
Helen S. Brisbane, QLD
Tropical Sportfisher
Tropical Sportfisher
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
5.0 / 5
(42 reviews)
Unbelievable experience in an unbelievable waterway, with an extremely knowledgeable & welcoming Skipper. Will return one day.๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿป๐Ÿ˜Ž
Ben  J.
Ben J. Sydney, NSW
Gone Fishing Cairns
Gone Fishing Cairns
Fishing charter in Cairns
Excellent
4.3 / 5
(428 reviews)
Good day plenty of chat fish werenโ€™t plentiful but a good morning in the inlet, Peter
Peter  R.
Peter R. Williamsburg, ME