Five of the best outback Queensland fishing spots

Good rainfall has breathed new life into the outback – the free-flowing rivers are full and the eco-systems are flourishing with new life and fish aplenty.

If you love fishing, or are keen to try, It’s time to stock the tackle box and make plans to hit the road.

Outback Queensland Tourism Association’s has made things easy with its top five fishing spots.

1. Lake Callide – Biloela

Located 12km from Biloela, the Callide Dam expands across 1,240ha when at its full capacity – a freshwater fisherman’s playground. You can share the banks with local cattle who graze the pasture or take the tinnie to check out different spots where barramundi, cod and golden perch may be hiding. If you’re looking for a stay nearby, Lake Callide Retreat offers comfortable cabins with a view of Callide Dam and is ideal for families and fishing enthusiasts.

2. Thomson River – Longreach

Meandering through the Barcoo Shire and feeding into Cooper’s Creek, it’s no surprise that there’s fish aplenty in and around the Longreach region. Embark on your own charter and explore the inland river through to the legendary Lake Eyre and discover fishing pockets along the way. Many central-west locals target the yellowbelly which strikes all year round and challenges keen anglers as the native species grows to more than 20kg, ready your heavy gear and rig up for the fight. If you’re on your way to Longreach in August, time your visit so you can get involved in the Longreach Recreational Fishing Club’s Yellowbelly Classic, held in the last weekend of the month.

Paddling on the Warrego River.

3. Warrego River – Charleville

Situated in the northernmost tributary of the Darling River, the Warrego River is one of the few places that are home to the silver perch. Kick off your fishing adventure and scope the landscape with the Warrego River Walk to pick your best spot. With accommodating grassy banks and shady gum trees, there’s cod, spangled perch, yellowbelly, jew and black bream that frequent across six local hotspots. Visit the Charleville Visitor Information Centre for your ultimate fishing fortune guide.

4. Dawson River – Cracow, Moura and Theodore

Dinosaurs aren’t the only ancient creatures in the outback. The king of the Dawson River is the southern saratoga – one of Australia’s oldest marines species. Play your tackle choices wisely and imitate the favourite food groups of the residents – frogs, boney bream, prawns and crayfish. Affectionately known as The Sandstone Wonders region, the nooks and crannies formed by the rocky escarpments are the ideal accommodation for barra, cod, black bream, eel, banded grunter and ‘Toga’ which grow up to 3kg. Grab a prime spot along the river and set up camp at Nevill Hewitt Weir, Baralaba, or nestle in closer in Theodore and head to the community-owned and local favourite Theodore Hotel to quench your thirst and enjoy a hearty pub meal.

Relaxing on the banks of Lake Moondarra.

5. Lake Moondarra – Mount Isa

Nestled just 17km north of Mount Isa, the picturesque Lake Moondarra is home to 22 different freshwater species including barramundi, sleepy cod, sooty grunter and long tom. This fishing spot is active with fish biting all year round but it really comes alive in October where keen fishermen flock to the region for the annual three-day Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic where you can win bragging rights and prizemoney. This is the only one time of year you can camp alongside the picturesque lake. Fire up the barbies and enjoy your fresh catch surrounded by hungry, like-minded fisherman battling it out for the catch of the day. 

Photos: Tourism and Events Queensland

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