The past week has been quiet with not much activity to report. The conditions have been less than ideal, leading to a few unproductive days for those who ventured out in hopes of a good catch. This quiet run will hopefully be disrupted by the upcoming full moon next Tuesday.
The full moon phase is often associated with increased fish activity due to larger tides resulting in more water moving about. The days leading up to the full moon, as well as a couple of days following it, are typically considered a prime time for fishing.
We are heading down to the Gold Coast next week for the Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA) Tackle Show and will be closed Wednesday 2 to Friday 4 August. The show highlights new product releases from all your favourite big brands as well as showcasing smaller brands and unique products. We can’t wait to let you know what’s new in the world of fishing! If you can’t wait, the show is open to the public on Saturday and is well worth a visit. You can find out more information on the AFTA website.
Offshore
Ordinary weather offshore has made it difficult for many fishos to head out too far this week, with better catches reported closer to shore. Those who have managed to get out from Mooloolaba have reported catches of Amberjack, Kingfish, Cobia and Hussar at the Hards.
Those fishing offshore from Noosa have reported some quality Mulloway, Cobia, Gold Spot Cod, Grassy Sweetlip, Tuskfish and Moses Perch. A few Longtail Tuna have also been taken off the bottom.
Catches of Cobia and Amberjack were also reported off Caloundra prior to the poor weather conditions setting in.
A reminder that the closed season applies to snapper and pearl perch throughout Queensland tidal waters from 15 July to 15 August.
Estuary & Beach
Maroochy River
The past week has seen catches of Jewfish in the lower reaches and Bream in good numbers throughout the river. Flathead have been on fire, and are taking just about anything. There’s still a few Onion, Golden, Diamond and Giant Trevally from the Cod Hole up towards Chambers Island. Major Craft Jigpara or Palms Slow Blatt jigs, Pro Lure Clone Prawns and smaller profile paddle tails have been claiming the most fish.
A few Garfish have been spotted and are great fun to catch on light gear. Try the Hook’Em Fishing pre-made Gar Rigs in 1g and 2g for your best chance.
Bait Master Fishing and Tackle regular Nate tagged us in his epic Jewfish catch this week in the Maroochy River. What makes it all the sweeter is that he measured all 79cm on his Bait Master Fishing and Tackle Brag Mat! Well done Nate! You can check him out on instagram at @nate_fish08
Have you checked out our Instagram page? Local fishos love tagging us in their catches, and we love sharing them! Make sure you give us a follow and tag us in your next epic catch. We'd love to share it with our customers and followers.
Noosa fishos have reported that Bream and Flathead catches have been plentiful at the mouth, along the Tewantin stretch and Gympie Terrace. Queenfish, Trevally and Bream have also been reported at Woods Bay. Bait options include live beach worms and peeled prawns, or small paddle tail or prawn imitation soft plastics have been doing the job.
Caloundra
Caloundra fishos have had success with Tailor and Trevally caught on metal slugs off north Bribie Island.
Beach
Beach fishos have had the most success over the past week with worms. Catches have included Dart, Bream and Whiting off the beaches at Noosa down to Caloundra.
If you are looking for some tips to get you started, advice on where to fish or assistance with setting up you rig, call in and see us at 311 David Low Way, Bli Bli. We pride ourselves on offering our customers exceptional customer service, which sets us apart from our local competitors. From teaching you how to tie a knot to spooling your reel, we are here to help!
Bait Master Fishing and Tackle is your go-to for fishing gear, ice and bait including live beach worms and fresh mullet. We also offer rod and reel servicing and repair at the best prices you’ll find anywhere on the coast.
Trent & Corinne
Bait Master Fishing and Tackle
Check out our latest arrivals
Our fishing report is also available at:
Thanks to our Sunshine Coast Fishing Report contributors:
Deep End Fishing Charters
0499 044 458
Berth 28, Mooloolaba Marina
33–45 Parkyn Parade, Mooloolaba QLD 4557
Smithys Fishing Charters
Email: info@smithysfishing.com.au
Phone 0407 574 868
Cnr Nicklin Way & Pt Cartwright Drive
Minyama QLD 4575