Just in time for the Christmas holidays, the Sunshine Coast is experiencing some exceptional fishing. The warm and calm days have been perfect for anglers, leading to some fantastic catches.
As we head into the weekend and Christmas Day and Boxing Day, the weather is looking promising overall, though a few showers and storms are expected. It’s always a good idea to check the latest forecast before heading out.
For those lunar enthusiasts, mark next Wednesday in your calendars as it brings a full moon, adding a bit of magic to your fishing experience.
Overall it looks like a great week to get out and test some of that new fishing gear you will hopefully find under the tree on Monday!
Offshore: Fishing offshore has been fruitful this week, with great conditions resulting in some decent catches. Snapper, Pearl Perch, Black Marlin and Sailfish are making waves at the Barwon Banks, while Mahi Mahi continue to dominate around the government FADs. North and Sunshine reefs are also delivering a healthy variety, including Snapper, Pearl Perch, Amberjack and Cobia. Added to this, the waters off Mooloolaba and Coolum are a haven for Spotted Mackerel and Mack Tuna. For those fishing closer to the shore, Sweetlip and Snapper are being caught on the nearer reefs.
Freshwater: Recent rainfall has led to high and discoloured river waters, presenting a challenging environment for freshwater fishing. Despite the tricky conditions, using soft plastic paddletails can lure Bass, Tilapia, Yellowbelly and Sooty Grunter. Anglers might need a bit more patience and persistence, but the rewards are there for those who find the right spots.
Maroochy River: Whiting are making a good showing on the flats, accompanied by Flathead, which continue to be a regular catch. Additionally, schools of Trevally are actively hunting around Bli Bli, drawn by the bait schools. Mangrove Jacks are being found around the rock bars and in the creeks. Meanwhile, Mud Crabs are prevalent in the middle reaches so it’s a great time to soak the pots.
Noosa: Recent catches in Noosa have been varied, with Woods Bay delivering Flathead, Trevally, Mangrove Jack and Moses Perch. The area around the Noosa River mouth is yielding Grunter Bream, while Bream and Whiting are being frequently caught in the Frying Pan region. Weyba Creek continues to be a reliable spot for both Flathead and Whiting. Mud Crabs are being caught in good numbers throughout the area following the recent rainfall.
Caloundra: The Caloundra passage is proving to be an excellent spot for fishing, especially for sizeable Flathead caught from the shore. The canals have also delivered catches of Mangrove Jacks and juvenile Sharks. Notably, several Barramundi have been caught using live baits, with the soft plastic prawn imitation lures proving effective in getting bites. Additionally, there are good schools of summer Whiting in the area.
We would like to wish all our customers and fishing report readers a very merry Christmas. We are so grateful for your support. There will be no fishing report next week but we will be back soon with more updates and tales from the Sunshine Coast waters. May your holidays be filled with joy, peace and, of course, great fishing.
Happy holidays and tight lines!
Trent and Corinne, Bait Master Fishing and Tackle
Bait Master Fishing and Tackle is at Shop 4, 311 David Low Way, Bli Bli. They have bait, live beach worms and all the gear you need to make your next fishing trip a success. Phone 5345 9824 or visit baitmasterfishing.com.au.
Please note the store is closed December 25-27.
The team also love hearing about your catches, so make sure you tag them on Instagram or Facebook, or email them through to info@baitmasterfishing.com.au.
Fishing report contributors
Deep End Fishing Charters: Berth 28, Mooloolaba Marina, 33-45 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba. Phone 0499 044 458 or visit deependfishing.com.au.
Smithy’s Fishing Charters: Corner Nicklin Way and Point Cartwright Drive, Minyama. Email info@smithysfishing.com.au, phone 0407 574 868 or visit smithysfishingcharters.com.au.
Want more free local news? Follow Sunshine Coast News on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.
