It’s been another week marked by rain and less-than-ideal conditions for our local anglers.
Unfortunately for estuary enthusiasts, it seems we’re at least another week away from seeing the dirty water fully flushed from our river systems, and that’s if we have no more rain.
Despite these challenges, there are still opportunities for successful catches, especially offshore, with Friday especially presenting ideal conditions.
The combination of hot weather and big tides, amplified by Saturday’s full moon, is setting the stage for a promising week.
Looking ahead, the overall conditions for the next are looking pretty good. We’re just keeping our fingers crossed that the rain gives us a break.
Offshore: Fishing over the past week has been relatively modest, with anglers reporting catches of Spotty Mackerel, Mahi Mahi, Sweetlip and Tuskfish. Notably, Marlin were caught off the 18-mile mark, while Amberjack and Pearl Perch were found at the Hards. Additionally, the government FADs have been productive spots for Mahi Mahi.
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Maroochy River: The river has seen its challenges this week, with continued rainfall resulting in dirty water that’s slowed down the fishing pace. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, there have been some bright spots. Whiting have been biting at the river mouth, while the stretch from the Cod Hole to Bli Bli has been a decent spot for Trevally and Flathead enthusiasts. Some good Mangrove Jacks have been caught over the past week. They don’t tend to mind the dirty water, so cast around structures and bridges for your best chance.
Noosa River: Despite the challenges posed by dirtier water conditions in the river, there have been some reports of success. We’ve had reports of a few Bream and Flathead about, with some nice Mangrove Jacks on the chew as well. Whiting have also been reported at the mouth. Live bait is your best option in these dirty water conditions.
Mooloolah River: The presence of dirty water has also influenced fishing conditions. Despite this, reports of a few Sand Whiting being caught in the lower reaches along with the odd Mangrove Jack in the upper reaches.
Caloundra: The influx of dirty freshwater continues to challenge anglers, making it tough to entice a bite. Despite the difficult conditions, there’s a silver lining for those hitting the beaches, where some fish are still being caught.
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Freshwater: Recent rainfall has significantly raised river levels and muddied the waters, making for some challenging fishing conditions. Despite these challenging conditions, when fish are located, they tend to be selective, so try soft plastic paddle tails to entice Bass, Tilapia, Yellowbelly, and Sooty Grunter.
The countdown to our move is on, and we’re excited to share some key details with you. The last trading day at Bli Bli will be Sunday. We’ll be closed from Monday until March 4. The new shop will open at Shop 3, 99 Aerodrome Road, Maroochydore, on March 5.
While we’re on the move, our online store will stay open and we’ll continue selling bait throughout the move, except for a brief period when we’re moving our freezers.
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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