Sunshine Coast Fishing Report | Thursday 21 December 2023

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 your calendars – next Wednesday 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 fishing 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 discolored river waters, presenting a challenging environment for freshwater fishing. Despite the tricky conditions, using soft plastic paddle tails 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

In the 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

Caloundra's passage is proving to be an excellent spot for fishing, especially for sizable 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 Barra 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. Please note that our store will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and Wednesday, 27th December. Looking for the perfect last-minute gift for the angler in your life? We’ve got you covered! We're open from 8am to 2pm on Saturday and Sunday for all your last-minute gift-giving needs. 

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 & Corinne
Bait Master Fishing and Tackle

Cover Photo:  @zachcfishing