Australia is a fisherman’s dream, offering a vast coastline that stretches over 34,000 kilometers and an endless array of rivers, lakes, estuaries, and reefs. From battling barramundi in the tropical north to chasing trophy tuna off the southern coasts, the continent is a haven for both saltwater and freshwater anglers.
Whether you’re casting from a boat, beach, jetty, or remote riverbank, here are the top fishing spots in Australia you must explore for an unforgettable fishing experience.
1. Cairns, Queensland – The Giant Black Marlin Capital
Located in Far North Queensland, Cairns is renowned as the Black Marlin capital of the world. Anglers from across the globe travel here to take on the ultimate big-game fish in the deep waters of the Great Barrier Reef.
- Best for: Black Marlin, Sailfish, Giant Trevally, Coral Trout
- Season: September to December
- Highlight: Live-aboard charters and multi-day reef adventures
Cairns is a saltwater paradise that blends world-class game fishing with stunning tropical scenery.
2. Darwin, Northern Territory – Wild and Untamed Waters
If you’re after the iconic Barramundi, there’s no better place than Darwin. The Top End’s rivers and billabongs offer both freshwater and tidal estuary fishing, delivering hard fights and legendary tales.
- Best for: Barramundi, Threadfin Salmon, Mangrove Jack
- Season: March to May (run-off season)
- Best spots: Daly River, Adelaide River, Shady Camp
This is Australia’s raw and remote wilderness fishing, where crocodiles are just as common as fish.
3. Exmouth, Western Australia – Saltwater Sportfishing Mecca
Exmouth, on WA’s mid-north coast, is one of the few places in the world where you can catch sailfish, marlin, tuna, GT, and bonefish all in one destination.
- Best for: Blue Marlin, Yellowfin Tuna, Spangled Emperor, Bonefish
- Season: Year-round (best months April to November)
- Highlight: Ningaloo Reef offers shore-based game fishing
Saltwater enthusiasts will fall in love with Exmouth’s diverse fishing options—from deep sea to reef to flats.
4. Gippsland Lakes, Victoria – Freshwater and Estuarine Bliss
This vast network of lakes, lagoons, and rivers in eastern Victoria is perfect for family-friendly fishing and serious angling alike. Freshwater and saltwater species mingle, providing action all year.
- Best for: Bream, Flathead, Estuary Perch, Tailor
- Season: September to May
- Top areas: Lakes Entrance, Metung, Paynesville
The Gippsland Lakes system is ideal for boat anglers and kayak fishers chasing estuary species.
5. Lake Eildon, Victoria – Premier Freshwater Destination
Nestled in the foothills of the Victorian Alps, Lake Eildon is a popular freshwater fishing destination surrounded by mountains and forests.
- Best for: Murray Cod, Golden Perch (Yellowbelly), Trout, Redfin
- Season: November to June (Murray Cod season opens in December)
- Fishing methods: Trolling, bait fishing, and casting spinnerbaits
Eildon offers serenity, big fish, and stunning views, making it one of the top inland fishing lakes in the country.
6. Weipa, Queensland – Remote Estuary & Bluewater Combo
Weipa, located on the western coast of Cape York Peninsula, is a remote town that delivers world-class barra and reef fishing in a completely untamed environment.
- Best for: Barramundi, Queenfish, GT, Spanish Mackerel
- Season: April to October
- Experience highlight: Fishing remote rivers by helicopter or guided tinny boats
If you’re looking for a remote Australian fishing adventure, Weipa is your spot.
7. Sydney Harbour, New South Wales – Urban Saltwater Adventure
Believe it or not, Sydney Harbour is one of the most productive saltwater fishing spots in the country. While surrounded by a bustling city, the waters offer surprising fishing quality.
- Best for: Kingfish, Snapper, Flathead, Mulloway
- Season: September to May
- Popular areas: Harbour Bridge pylons, North Head, Rose Bay
Harbour fishing offers convenience and consistent action, especially for traveling anglers.
8. Tasmania’s Central Highlands – Trout Fishing Paradise
Tasmania is internationally known for premium trout fishing. Its Central Highlands are filled with pristine lakes and rivers that produce large wild trout.
- Best for: Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout
- Season: August to May
- Top lakes: Great Lake, Arthurs Lake, Lake Crescent, Penstock Lagoon
For fly fishing enthusiasts, Tasmania is bucket-list material.
9. Fraser Island, Queensland – Beach and Rock Fishing Paradise
Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world, and it offers exceptional beach, rock, and estuary fishing.
- Best for: Tailor, Whiting, Dart, Flathead
- Season: Tailor run from July to October
- Best areas: 75 Mile Beach, Sandy Cape, Waddy Point
4WD beach access and remote camping make Fraser Island one of Australia’s most exciting saltwater destinations.
10. Lake Macquarie, New South Wales – Australia’s Largest Saltwater Lake
Lake Macquarie is a massive coastal lagoon just 90 minutes north of Sydney. It’s ideal for both boat and land-based fishing, with a wide range of species on offer.
- Best for: Bream, Flathead, Mulloway, Luderick
- Season: Year-round
- Access points: Speers Point, Belmont, Swansea Channel
It’s a hidden gem for families and recreational fishers looking for a productive and relaxing day.
Top Freshwater vs. Saltwater Fish Species in Australia
| Saltwater Species | Best Regions |
|---|---|
| Barramundi | Northern Territory, QLD |
| Kingfish | NSW, WA, VIC |
| Spanish Mackerel | WA, QLD |
| Coral Trout | QLD (Great Barrier Reef) |
| Tuna (Bluefin, Yellowfin) | SA, VIC, WA |
| Snapper | SA, VIC, NSW |
| Freshwater Species | Best Regions |
|---|---|
| Murray Cod | VIC, NSW, ACT |
| Golden Perch (Yellowbelly) | VIC, NSW, QLD |
| Brown Trout | TAS, VIC, NSW |
| Rainbow Trout | TAS, VIC, NSW |
| Redfin | VIC, WA, SA |
Conclusion
From highland trout lakes to tropical reef systems, Australia offers a dazzling variety of fishing experiences. Whether you’re targeting monster Murray Cod in a freshwater dam or chasing speedy tuna offshore, there’s a perfect spot for every type of angler.
Each region not only offers amazing fish but also unique cultural and natural experiences, making every trip memorable. So pack your gear, plan your route, and discover why Australia is one of the world’s top fishing destinations.