Due to recent poor weather conditions this week’s fishing report is a bit shorter than usual, but there’s still plenty of news for anglers.
With the weather clearing up, we’re looking forward to a weekend of promising fishing opportunities across our coastal and freshwater locales.
Offshore: Despite the challenging weather, the offshore scene has been quite rewarding. The Hards are still a reliable spot for Amberjack, while the Barwon Banks have delivered catches of Tuskfish, Hussar, Spanish Mackerel, Wahoo, Black Marlin and Sailfish. Additionally, Mahi Mahi, Mackerel and Marlin, along with good catches of reef fish, have been reported.
The weekend’s weather conditions are looking favourable for offshore fishing, providing a perfect opportunity for those eager to hit the deeper waters. Sunshine Reef has seen good catches of Mackerel, Cobia, Pearl Perch and Tuskfish. Mac Tuna and Long Tails have been smashing the bait schools, while Spotted Mackerel have been caught on trolled hardbodies, floaters and slugs cast into bait balls.
The Spanish Mackerel southern closure started on Thursday. There are two three-week closure periods from February 1-21 and March 1-21.
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Maroochy River: The river has been impacted by localised flooding and adverse weather, making fishing conditions tough this week. Before Tuesday, however, there were good numbers of Whiting, Bream and Flathead being caught along the Bli Bli stretch down to the mouth. Crabbers have had more luck, with plenty of catches being reported. As conditions start to settle, we expect the fishing to pick up again once the freshwater clears from the river systems. It’s a great time, however, to put the pots in as crabs will definitely be lively.
Noosa: The recent weather conditions in the Noosa River area have made fishing a bit challenging, with fewer anglers venturing out. However, those who have braved the elements report catching Bream and a few Whiting. For Mangrove Jack enthusiasts, the fishing has been tough, with a few people reporting quite a few donut days on the chase recently. As the weather improves, we’re hopeful that the fishing conditions will follow suit.
Mooloolah River: Fishos chasing Mangrove Jack reported a few good catches prior to the rain. Crabs have also been in good numbers. As with our other coast river systems, we expect fishing to be pretty tough going until the freshwater starts to clear.
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Caloundra: The Caloundra area seemed to cop the worst of recent bad weather, which has also resulted in slow fishing days. There’s still been plenty of active Mangrove Jack in the canals, with a few good Whiting still being caught despite the weather. Crabs have been plentiful, and this will continue with the recent rainfall stirring things up.
Freshwater: The fishing has been significantly affected by the recent weather, with the Mary River and many other rivers and creeks experiencing flooding and being largely unfishable. Anglers are advised to exercise caution and check local conditions before planning their freshwater fishing trips.
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Bait Master Fishing and Tackle is on the move and we can’t wait to embark on this new adventure with our loyal fishing community. At the end of February, we’ll be making the transition to our new location at 99 Aerodrome Road, Maroochydore, just a stone’s throw away from where the original Mike’s Fishing and Tackle store once stood. Rest assured, we’ll continue to serve you at our Bli Bli location until the move, and we’ll keep you updated on any temporary downtime during the transition. Our commitment to providing you with top-notch service, quality bait and the best fishing gear on the Sunshine Coast remains unwavering. Thank you for being part of our journey, and we look forward to casting our lines into new waters with you.
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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