The Sunshine Coast is a fisherman’s paradise, one can enjoy fresh water and salt water fishing, as well as all manner of activities. If you are the type of person who enjoys the outdoors and fishing is one of your hobbies then you might like to consider the Sunshine Coast. In this article, we will explore the fresh water possibilities, salt water offerings and the related activities available.
Fresh water fishing abounds in places such as Baroon Pocket, Lake Macdonald, Borumba, and Cooloolabin Dam. Lake Macdonald, the town water supply for the Noosa district, is stocked with a variety of fish. A Stocked Impound Permit (SIP) is required to fish Lake Macdonald for such varieties as Mary River cod, although its taking is prohibited, Bass, Yellowbelly, Saratoga, Snub nosed gar, Tandens Eels, and Spangled Perch. The fly-fisherman may find himself lucky in Borumba Dam, one of Queensland’s most established lakes, when fishing for Saratoga and Bass. Lures also draw the attention of Baroon Pocket Dam fish, if they are well presented at shallow to medium depth. One will most likely find these fish to be fairly aggressive. Although it has not been officially stocked since the 1980’s, Cooloolabin Dam has unconfirmed reports of Bass and Yellowbelly. Ewen Maddock Dam provides for some good fishing, but it should be noted that while bank angling is allowed, propeller driven vessels should not be used here due to the noxious weed, Cabomba. In addition to the typical Australian Bass, Yellowbelly, Mary River Cod and Saratoga, there are reports of illegally introduced barramundi in the Ewen Maddock Dam.
If saltwater fishing is your interest, then the Sunshine Coast has plenty to offer you as well. The Noosa River, known for its populations of Trevally, Mangrove Jack and Bass also offers Tarpon and Mackerel. The Noosa River provides great estuary fishing. The Maroochy River may be shallow, but it does offer quite a few deep holes that are condusive to excellent fishing. One such deep hole is south of the Maroochy River Bridge. For Bream and Whiting fishing, The Mooloolah River is exceptional. These fish are most prominent in the middle of the river; however, lures work well around the pontoons and pylons. The reef system of the Sunshine Coast, which runs from Caloundra to north of Noosa, provides a wide variety of fish.
In addition to the abundant fishing opportunities, the Sunshine Coast offers many other recreational opportunities. It is possible to camp, swim or boat in most places; however, one should check on the boating restrictions in advance. The Sunshine Coast provides a wide variety of activities to suit just about any outdoor enthusiast, and the variety of fishing will likely keep any angler busy and satisfied.
