Both species are renowned for the action they provide with their spectacular sprints and aerial manoeuvres. The outer waters that surround The Great Barrier Reef are famed for their reef fishing. They provide excellent sport and are home to top quality eating fish such as Coral Trout, Sweet lip, and Red Emperor. The Reef's inshore waters also produce a multitude of different sportfish. In the months of May through to September Spanish Mackerel, Doggie Mackerel and Tuna are on the boil.
Top spots are the rock pool on the Strand, the harbour, and the breakwalls behind the casino.
Huge Spanish Mackerel are very common in the bay around local haunts that include nearby Magnetic Island as well as Cape Cleve-land, Salamander Reef and the Palm Islands. Engaging in fights with these pugnacious speedsters tests the skills of even the most accomplished angler. The estuary fishing scene is also very popular with both locals and holidaying visitors. All around the region there are many rewarding rivers, creeks and streams most of which hold a variety of different species including Salmon, Grunter, Bream, Whiting, Cod, Torpor and the famous fighting Barramundi, noted for their acrobatic displays when hooked. You may even catch our Queensland mud crabs, a much prized delicacy.