fishing in cairns and the tropical north queensland region

Cairns No 1 Sportsfishing Capital of the World!

Cairns in Tropical North Queensland has the reputation of offering the most amazing fishing, where some of the world's best vessels and crews gather. Whether chasing Giant Black Marlin out on the Great Barrier Reef or gently drifting down a rainforest river in search of the famous Barramundi — your fishing dreams can come true right here in Cairns.

In the lead up to our 'Green Season' (October to early January) the rivers and estuaries are at their best. Species such as Mangrove Jacks, Queenfish, Giant Trevally, Tarpon, Cod and the 'Emperor of the Estuary' the Barramundi are willing to take a well-presented bait, lure, or fly. Further upstream in the rainforest, freshwater streams the Jungle Perch, Sooty Grunter and Jacks are the light tackle angler's adversaries. Whatever form of fishing you like we can ensure you have the right guide to suit your angling style.

Out on the Great Barrier Reef, fish species such as Spanish Mackerel, Giant Trevally, Marlin, Sailfish, Wahoo, Barracuda, Tuna and Mahi-Mahi will keep the light tackle offshore angler very happy. For those anglers who prefer bottom fishing, we have you covered as well. The suburb Coral Trout, Red Emperor, several species of Sweetlip and the Large Mouth Nannygai can provide excellent fishing opportunities on the reefs off Cairns.

Giant Black Marlins begin to show themselves in late September. Anglers from all over the world come to Cairns to battle with these giants of the sea. Records will tumble, anglers will become exhausted, some anglers will win and some lose, but having hooked and watched a 1000lb Black Marlin take to the air will live in your memory forever!! Our charter vessels have "state of the art" fish finding electronics, and a very experienced crew who will ensure you have the best days fishing possible, or we can cater for that special live-aboard trip to venture further north in search of these majestic fish.

The Cairns Charter Vessel Fleet has vessels that specialise in all types of angling, from casting poppers to huge Giant Trevally on the inshore reefs, fly-fishing for Marlin and Sailfish, to 'Heavy Tackle' boats that will search for the fish of a lifetime.

Now that we have you "HOOKED" this is how you can experience it all. A simple email or telephone call and our professional experienced staff will do the rest for you. Just let them know what angling adventure you're after and leave it to them to find you the right boat for the job. Whether you're after a half day estuary trip or a long range game fishing adventure, The Tour Specialists have the knowledge and experience to have you fishing in no time!

With all charters you are very welcome to bring your favourite outfit along. Our vessels use only the best tackle available and are constantly updating to give the very best tackle in the world. Most locals, game fishing boats and estuary guides rely on "Erskines" Tackle Shop (51 Mulgrave Rd) for their tackle and advice on the latest tackle. Erskines Tackle Shop has very experienced staff and is held in high regard all over the world for service and advice.

Season Guide to Australia's Premier Sportfish

Species	Illustration	Size	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Barramundi		to 30kg
Threadfin Salmon		to 15kg
Mangrove Jack		to 4kg
Trevally		to 30kg
Queenfish		to 15kg
Marlin		to 600kg
Sailfish		to 60kg
Mackeral		to 30kg
Yellowfin Tuna		to 100kg
Snapper		to 15kg
Shark		to 1,000kg
Brown Trout		to 8kg
Rainbow Trout		to 6kg
Quinnat Salmon		to 15kg

Best Months

Average Months

Not Recommended

View more Fishing tours