Sunshine Coast Fishing Report | Thursday 14 September 2023

Windy conditions have made fishing challenging this week, but relief is in sight with the weekend shaping up nicely. With little to no rainfall expected and warmer days ahead, it's a great time to cast a line. School holidays are just around the corner, so Sunshine Coast locals might find their favorite spots a bit more crowded over the coming weeks. As we approach the New Moon on Friday, anglers might find the tides more favorable for a good catch.

The gravitational pull of the moon is strongest during the New Moon and Full Moon phases, which can lead to higher tides and stronger currents. This often results in increased fish activity, as the higher water levels allow fish to explore areas they can't usually reach, like shallow flats and estuaries. Species like Whiting, Flathead, and Bream are often more active during these periods, especially in estuaries like the Maroochy and Noosa Rivers. Offshore, you might find that Snapper and other reef fish are more active, particularly around structures and drop-offs.

Offshore Fishing

Offshore fishing continues to impress, especially in the waters off Caloundra where Snapper and Grassy Emperor are making a strong showing. If you're setting your sights on the Hards, you can expect a variety of catches including Snapper, Pearl Perch, Amberjack, and Kingfish.

Mooloolaba

For the night owls, Squid are congregating around the trawlers in Mooloolaba, and there’s also been reports of Trevally around the same area.

Maroochy River

Tanya got this nice 70cm Flathead off the beach around Caloundra

Whiting are making a strong showing from the river mouth up to Bli Bli, with some impressive sizes reported. Bream are still a consistent catch throughout the river, while Flathead are making their presence known in the shallows, with some good catches in the 50+ cm range. For those on the hunt for larger Flathead, try Gobblers 3 inch paddle tails or Ecogear Balt 3.5 inch paddle tails.

The outgoing tide continues to be the angler's best friend, particularly for those targeting Trevally and Jewfish.There’s been plenty of Mud Crabs about this week, with Sand Crabs showing up in the lower reaches.

Caloundra

In Caloundra, the flats are proving to be hot spots for Summer Whiting and Flathead. Additionally, the strong tides are ushering Tiger Squid into the sheltered bays and alongside rock walls.

Caloundra's beaches have been a haven for Dart and Whiting, while the mouth of the creeks running off Pumicestone Passage are rewarding anglers with Flathead and Whiting. The canals are also heating up with Mangrove Jack and Trevally making some noise. Beach worms continue to be the bait of choice for beach fishos. Grab some live worms or a pack of cured worms next time you're in store.

Congrats to local Caloundra fisho Kosta who caught his first Tiger Squid!

Freshwater

Freshwater fishing is really firing at the moment, with some awesome Bass catches being reported all over the region. With plenty of beautiful spots to choose from, heading out for a day of dam fishing makes a great school holiday or weekend activity. Nories Spoons or Tailspinners are doing the damage. Fiona had a memorable outing at O'Shea's Crossing in the Somerset Region, landing a beautiful Bass.

Women’s Recreational Fishing League

Bait Master Fishing and Tackle’s Corinne Aiken has recently been appointed to the role of Queensland Vice President for the Women's Recreational Fishing League (WRFL). This organization is doing some great work to make fishing more inclusive and sustainable. One to watch is their upcoming Reel Gauntlet competition. Starting December 1, the comp will bring together state teams for a series of monthly challenges, all leading up to a grand final. It's a great initiative that aims to unite anglers of all skill levels across Australia. You can find out more info here.

As we wrap up this week's report, remember that Bait Master Fishing and Tackle is your one-stop-shop for all your fishing needs.

Fiona with a lovely Bass caught at O’Sheas Crossing

We're located at 311 David Low Way, Bli Bli. Whether you're gearing up for the school holidays or planning a weekend outing, we've got you covered. Happy fishing, and we look forward to seeing you soon!

Tight Lines!

Trent & Corinne
Bait Master Fishing and Tackle

Cover Photo Credit: @knoxtay_1