The Macleay River region is a hotspot for anglers, offering a diverse range of fishing opportunities for those willing to venture further offshore. Those who do can expect to catch quality kingfish and bar cod, as well as other species such as flathead and Spanish mackerel.
Fresh Catches in the River
Within the river, bream are providing consistent action in both numbers and size. Anglers are advised to downsize their tackle, as light line and minimal weight are recommended. For those using gut and strip baits, the most effective locations are deeper sections of the river.
- Flathead anglers are also in luck, with some impressive specimens approaching a metre caught recently.
- Suspending minnows and soft vibes appear to be the most productive lure choices.
Fishing for Luderick and Sea Mullet
Luderick numbers are on the rise, with the breakwalls offering promising fishing locations. Start of the sea mullet run is expected as Anzac Day arrives, with commercial fishers preparing their nets and scanning the beaches for the first migrating schools. This age-old practice of beach netting for sea mullet continues to connect them to the rhythms of the coast.
| Location | Fishing Conditions |
|---|---|
| Luderick Breakwalls | Deeper sections of the river, using weed as bait |
| Beach Fishing | Increasing tailor numbers, leading to great catches |
| Rock Angling | Drummer in good numbers around Point Plomer and the Lighthouse |
Offshore Fishing
Offshore, mackerel are providing plenty of action and with decent catches reported just off the coast. Deep sea fishing yielded success too, with snapper present in reasonable numbers around 40 metres. Further out, a lucky few landed prized pearl perch and kingfish.
- Snapper are present in reasonable numbers around 40 metres.
- Pearl perch and kingfish are also being landed in deeper waters.
Fishing for Bream and Flathead
Bream fishing remains strong, with impressive specimens over a kilogram reported from Lighthouse and North Shore beaches. Flathead anglers are also in luck, with some impressive specimens approaching a metre caught recently. Suspending minnows and soft vibes appear to be the most productive lure choices.
