Cairns Fishing outstanding Reef & Game Fishing

Reef Fishing for Red Emperor
Cairns Reef Fishing

Due to its excellent location, Cairns is home to many great sport and leisure fishing spots. From estuary fishing in Trinity Inlet to the extensive selection of reef locations, there are options to suit beginners to the most avid angler.

Without a doubt, the stunning scenery of the Great Barrier Reef or rainforest shrouded river and lake systems is drawcard enough. Not to mention, the reward of hooking some of the most elusive and challenging game fish in Australia.

For those who prefer to find the ‘hidden gems,’ a number of fishing charters are available. From exclusive private tours to joining a group of like-minded enthusiasts, knowledgeable guides can show you the best spots. Cairns fishing is so diverse, taking a local along can reap great rewards!

If you prefer to choose your own adventure, there are options to hire a boat or fish straight from the beach. We do suggest seeking advice from a local and in particular, paying attention to any croc warning signs. You don’t want to be fighting these beasts for their lunch!

River and Estuary Fishing

Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, locations for river and estuary fishing in the Cairns region are abundant.

Trinity Inlet at Cairns harbour is a tidal estuary, with the varying conditions providing a home to over 40 species of fish. Owing to the fact that it is a Fish Habitat Reserve, it is a prime fish breeding and nursery area.

Further out, the Cairns region is home to a great deal of river and estuary fishing locations. The Daintree, Barron and Mulgrave Rivers to name a few.

Reef Fishing

Reef fishing is among the most popular option for Cairns fishing trips. With a number of reefs to explore, there are hundreds of fish species, including Coral Trout, Cod, Mackerel and much more.

No matter if you’re reef fishing just offshore or further out into open water, you have plenty of fishing options.

When fishing the reef, common choices include bottom fishing for small but exciting game and trolling with lures.

Whether you’re fishing inland or out on the reef, the list of fish at your fingertips is essentially endless.

fishing for a barracuda is a must do in Cairns
barracuda

However, popular selections include Barramundi, Black Marlin, Mangrove Jack, Flathead, Barracuda, and Snapper.

You’re also likely to catch Red Emperor, Spanish Mackerel, Queenfish and much more.

The best way to benefit from fishing in Cairns is with Charters and tours, especially when fishing the Great Barrier Reef.

There are many zones and restrictions for Cairns fishing and it’s easy to become confused. However, with a tour, your guide will show you the proper zones and help you with the restrictions. Not to mention, you’ll benefit from years of local knowledge and experience!

No matter the type of fish you’re hoping to catch or the nature in which you’d like to fish, Cairns fishing trips offer you a plentiful opportunity to catch a diversity of fish. Even if you don’t catch anything, you’ll still be surrounded by the amazing beauty of the reef and rainforest when fishing in Cairns.