Nestled between the sandy beaches of the Gold Coast, the city of Brisbane has a laid-back feel all year. Downtown stares out onto the productive waters of Moreton Bay, while there are plenty of productive waterways just a stone’s throw out of town. Come fly fishing in Brisbane and discover rivers, lakes, and the open waters of the Pacific!
Where to Go and What to Catch
There’s no shortage of places to head when thinking of going fly fishing in Brisbane, which may cause a bit of a dilemma. With abundant saltwater and freshwater options, you can’t go wrong.
Moreton Bay
Where better to start than the 78-mile-long bay that Brisbane looks out onto? With waters averaging depths of less than 8 meters, you’ll hit the shallow reefs and sandbanks to attract the bite of a range of exciting nearshore creatures. From Snappers and Jacks, to Kingfish and Salmon, there’s no end to what you can catch.
Brisbane River
The city’s synonymous river offers some of the best fly fishing opportunities imaginable. You’ll discover a range of fish you didn’t know could live side-by-side in these brackish waters, giving you even more of a chance to cast away. The usual suspects from the bay rub shoulders with Bass, Perch, and many more prized creatures for a thrilling day out.
Lake Fly Fishing
Just a few miles inland of Brisbane, there are plenty of productive lakes to entice the freshwater fly fisherman. Lake Borumba and Lake Wivenhoe are two of the most popular fly fishing spots, with both overflowing with some of Australia’s most-loved fish. Go after Yellowbelly, Australian Bass, Saratoga, and Perch in these calm waters and land a fish like never before.
Offshore
The more experienced fly angler will relish the chance to head out in the Pacific to try some big game fly fishing. Get ready for an intense struggle to hook a mammoth such as a Yellowfin Tuna aboard, but that’s part of the fun, right?
What to Expect
With the chance to choose from trips as short as a couple of hours and as long as 12 hours, you can get whatever you want out of your Brisbane fly fishing experience. Beginners may prefer a shorter trip to test the waters, as your professional skipper gives you a helping hand. Meanwhile, avid anglers can spend hours on end showing off their skills against some prestigious fish.
You’ll also have the option of opting for a private or shared charter. Save some money and enjoy the company of like-minded anglers on a party boat, or have it all to yourself on a private trip. The choice is yours!
How to Prepare
When going fly fishing in Brisbane, you’ll naturally need the appropriate gear. Unfortunately, not all charters provide fly fishing equipment, so you may need to get your own before coming aboard.
On the bright side, though, there’s no need for a fishing license in Queensland, so that’s one less thing to worry about. Some skippers will even offer drinks and snacks, and sometimes lunch, but it’s worth checking before you go.
And that’s it! The exciting world of fly fishing in Brisbane has just opened its doors. Book your next trip and see for yourself!
