Fishing is great fun and locals will help with advice regarding bait and the best spots (or maybe the second best spots!) to go.
Remember that saltwater crocodiles inhabit many of the Gulf Savannah’s waterways, so stay back from the water’s edge, avoid repetitive behaviour such as checking crab pots at the same time every day, and clean fish well away from the water. Anglers do not require a licence to fish recreationally in Queensland, except if fishing in some stocked impoundments, however there are some regulations to keep fish populations healthy.
Barramundi closed season applies to Gulf of Carpentaria and adjoining waterways noon 7 October to noon 1 February. East Coast from Noon 1 November to Noon 1 February. Does not apply to Croydon’s Lake Belmore.
Barramundi size limits in the Gulf are 58cm minimum to 120 cm maximum with a limit of five fish per person in possession. For information contact the Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, phone 13 25 23 or visit www.daff.qld.gov.au
In Queensland, licences are required when operating boats powered by a motor of over 6hp that are capable of speeds in excess of 10 knots and have a planing or non-displacement hull. For information on licensing and registration phone 13 25 23 and they can connect you to the Weipa or Karumba Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol offices.