Fishing conditions continue to be tricky, with the remnants of the previous week’s flooding still affecting conditions. Winds and swell should make offshore a no-go until a brief reprieve next Wednesday, after which conditions look to deteriorate again. Hot and muggy conditions look like they’ll continue into next week, with showers and winds also predicted.
Offshore: Opportunities to venture offshore over the next week look limited but, as always, please check conditions to stay up-to-date. Over the last week, Smithy’s Charters reported catches of Spotty Mackerel around the Caloundra reefs, along with sightings of Spanish Mackerel. Remember, the Spanish Mackerel southern closure in currently in force (February 1-21). The FADs continue to be the spot for Mahi Mahi. Marlin and Sailfish were reported at 18 Mile while the Barwon Banks delivered catches of Hussar and Tuskfish.
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Maroochy River: Fishing the Maroochy River has required patience this past week, with the water remaining murky from recent heavy rains. However, persistence has paid off in the lower stretches where Whiting and Trevally are making their presence known. We’ve also had reports of Jewfish, Grunter and decent-size Flathead catches. Seven-gram micro jigs are proving successful, slicing through the less-than-clear waters with promise. The dirty water doesn’t bother the Jacks, with some nice catches reported over the past week. Anglers are advised to be on the lookout as increased shark activity has been reported.
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Noosa: The Noosa River continues to be hit and miss, due to less-than-ideal conditions recently. In the lower reaches, anglers have found success with Grunter Bream and Whiting, while Lake Cooroibah has been a hotspot for Trevally. Flathead and Whiting have been reported at the mouth, while Trevally have been spotted in Woods Bay.
Mooloolah River: Sand Whiting have been a common catch in the lower reaches, especially during the times when the tide is rising, bringing them closer to shore.
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Caloundra: The area continues to fish well despite the recent weather, with catches of Grunter Bream and Whiting reported. Mangrove Jack catches have been reported in good numbers, with some decent-size models caught in the canals and Currimundi Lake.
Freshwater: The freshwater fishing scene is currently quiet, as the Mary River and surrounding creeks are recovering from recent flooding. The increased water levels and turbidity have made conditions challenging for anglers, with many areas still inaccessible or offering limited fishing opportunities. As the waters gradually recede and clarity improves, fishing conditions in these freshwater areas are expected to slowly return to normal, but it may take some time before they fully recover from the impact of the floods.
Due to a temporary issue with our tank system we won’t have live beach worms available this weekend. However, we’ve got you covered with a wide selection of frozen bait and cured worms to ensure your fishing trip is still a success.
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.
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.
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