Fishing in Cape York

Fishing is one of the most popular activities in Cape York.

Many people come to the Cape only for fishing, and it's hard to blame them.

The whole peninsula is full of fantastic fishing spots, and some of Australia's most famous game fish such as Barramundi is plentiful here.

Other fish that you can catch in Cape York include coral trout, mangrove jack, queenfish, sweetlip, trevally, emperor, snapper, mackerel, reef shark, saratoga, grunter, cod and salmon.

Fishing Cape York

You can fish in freshwater lakes and rivers, from the shore of the ocean; take a boat out to the reef, or join a fishing trip organised by the many tour operators.

Fishing Cape York - Some of the Better Places

Some places are more popular than others:

* Cooktown Wharf

* Mission River in Weipa

* Jardine River mouth

* Seisia Wharf

* Torres Strait Islands

* Rivers in Lakefield National Park

* Coastal areas in Cape Melville

* Chili Beach in Iron Range National Park

But there is, of course, a huge amount of other places.

Fishing Cape York - Regulations

There is one thing you have to remember - fishing regulations.

You are not allowed to fish just anywhere. In some areas, a permit/licence is required.

There are closed seasons for some species. Bag limits and fish sizes apply.

And if you fish in the ocean, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park zoning applies.

Because the regulations can always change, it is best to check the latest rules online before you go fishing in Cape York.

Fishing Cape York - Tours

There are also plenty of fishing tours in Cape York. Some take you up the rivers, others go out to coral reef.

They are not exactly cheap, but they are run by locals who know where the best fishing is, so you have good chances to catch some good ones.

The exact rules vary between different tours, but generally you have to bring your own drinks (beer, wine or soft drinks, whatever you like), and the lunch is usually not provided, but on some tours your own catch can be cooked for lunch.

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