There’s nothing better than spending some well-earned holiday time by the water fishing in one of Australia’s most picturesque fishing locations. Noosa on the Sunshine Coast is the perfect place for seasoned fishermen, first-timers and anyone who’d just like to give it a go either from a boat or the beach. We’ve put together some information that will help you plan your next fishing adventure. Best of all, if you have fishing stories about the ‘one that got away’ then this is your chance to try again. Don’t forget to take a pic before you put your catch back!
Fish like a local
There’s loads of secluded fishing spots dotted around Noosa. You can choose from beaches, at the mouth on the Noosa River or its tributaries, from the headland, by boat on the Noosa River and at lots of other little bays and inlets.
These ‘secret and secluded’ fishing spots are extensive and include the famed Noosa River (see boat hire info below), Teewah Beach, Alexandria bay, Little Cove, Sunshine Beach to name a few.
Noosa has two fishing seasons with some fish including flathead, bream, dart and whiting being available all year round. At other times you might be lucky to catch a tuna, tailor, golden trevally or mackerel. There’s a fantastic web site called Fishing Spots that’s worth taking a look at. It provides comprehensive information about where to fish, what to fish for, what’s in season and for just $2.95, a map of all the best fishing spots! You can also get the latest fishing reports from Coastwatch.
Fishing from the water
If you came prepared with all the necessary fishing gear but just need a boat to skipper, you are in luck. There are several places where you can hire a boat in Noosa. Here’s just a few of them below – Check out the links to see what type of boat suits you.
- Noosa Boat Hire – with their U-Drive boat hire you can spend the day on the water fishing, swimming or just relaxing. They have a range of boats for hire and also run a Noosa Charters Offshore Fishing tour that caters for anyone who enjoys deep sea fishing.
- O Boat Hire – O Boat has a range of boats that come with fishing tackle, life jackets, and an esky. The boats are pet friendly, which is perfect if your pooch is on holiday with you! There is also a bait-and-tackle shop onsite with an extensive range of rods and reels, and also snacks, drinks and ice creams.
- T Boat Hire – for the serious fisherman you can hire a Bowrider with canopy for a half or full day, perfect for fishing on the Noosa River.
But you’re on holiday …
If you’d prefer to sit back, relax and be whisked away for a couple of hours or longer to a great fishing spot then here are two great experiences you can’t go past.
Noosa River Fishing Safaris – You can choose from a range of fishing experiences aboard ‘Becky’ a 7.5 meter Cairns Custom Craft which is powered by an eco-friendly 2021 model 115 HP Mercury four-stroke engine. Choose from a 2 hour ‘quick fix’ fishing charter or a longer ½ day charter. Everything is provided, including sunscreen and insect repellent.
Tickets + times: Prices and departure times vary for the two trips. There is also a Private Charter booking option available.
Departs from: 186 Gympie Terrace, Noosaville (bookings essential).
Noosa Fishing and Crab Tours – The Noosa River and surrounds is one of the most tranquil, idyllic and cleanest waterways in Queensland. Enjoy a day on the waterways spotting wildlife, taking in the beautiful scenery and of course fishing and crabbing. Throw your fishing line in and see what you catch. It might be a whiting, trevally or bream, or pull up some crab pots. You’ll even get to taste either the local Queensland Mud or Blue Swimmer Crabs, which are a real delicacy. It’s the perfect way to have a fishing adventure without needing your own equipment. You’ll be provided with:
- Scrumptious lunch with non-alcoholic drinks
- Your own skipper
- Rod, reels, bait, tackle and ice
- Weather jackets
- A custom-built fishing vessel with a full shade canopy
- Toilet facilities.
The best part is that this trip caters for everyone so is perfect for families and groups of friends.
Tickets: $89 per adult, children (6-16 years) are $59, kids under 4 are free.
4 hour fishing tours run from: 8am and 1pm.
Departs from: O Boat Hire, 222 Gympie Terrace, Noosaville (bookings essential).
IMPORTANT … Queensland fishing rules
You don’t need a licence for recreational fishing in Queensland but you do need to stick to some pretty important rules. These rules are in place to protect fish species and also to ensure the fishing industry is sustainable. Recreational fishing rules include:
- Fishing equipment
- Catch limits and closures
- Size and possession limits – tidal waters
- Size and possession limits – fresh waters
Ready for a bit of holiday fishing? Book your Sunshine Coast accommodation close by the Noosa River staying at Rimini Holiday Apartments Noosaville.
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