Sunshine Coast Fishing Report | Thursday 11 January 2024

Welcome to this week's Sunshine Coast Fishing Report. Recent heavy rainfall dumped a huge amount of freshwater in local rivers and creeks resulting in murky water and many donut days. Thankfully our waterways are starting to look much better, particularly on the top of the tide. On the up side, our river and creek systems have had a good flushout, pushing fish downstream and stirring up mud crabs. 

Unfortunately offshore conditions look awful for the upcoming week, with big swells and winds predicted. Inshore, expect hot and muggy conditions with the odd shower and storm predicted. Big tides this week thanks to today's new moon and the recent rainfall should result in some good fishing for the upcoming week. 

Out in the deep, the action hasn't slowed down despite the weather. At Sunshine Reef, there's a healthy mix of Pearl Perch, Tuskfish, and Sweetlip. There's been the odd Spanish and Spotty Mackerel around however they're are getting harder to spot. The Hards continue to fish well, with reports of Amberjack, Yellowtail , Black Marlin and Sailfish, while the Barwon Banks has seen Black Marlin and Sailfish. Mahi Mahi continue to be caught around the FADs, with good sized Snapper about on the reefs. The next week looks like a no-go for offshore fishing, with the weather continuing to wreak havoc on boaties. 

Maroochy River

In the Maroochy River, whiting are on fire, with some absolute elbow slappers being caught towards the mouth. They are about in prolific numbers, so be sure to drop in to our store for some live beach worms. In addition to Whiting, the recent flush has seen plenty of Tailor and Flathead catches, especially towards the lower end of the river. Crabbers are enjoying a bumper period, with big muddies on the move after the recent rain. Twin Waters has been fishing well, with reports of nice Trevally. There are still quite a few elusive Barramundi getting around, with many fishos reporting sightings.

Noosa

Noosa has been the spot for Jacks this week, with reports of some super catches.  The mouth has been the spot for Bream and the odd Tailor Tailor. Up towards Tewantin, there's been reports of Trevally and School Jew. Flathead, Bream, and Mangrove Jacks are being caught in good numbers. Like the Maroochy River, Noosa is benefitting from recent rainfall, which has also stirred up the fish and crabs.

Caloundra

Dart and Whiting continue to delight shore anglers around Caloundra, while plenty of Flathead, Whiting, and Grunter Bream have been caught at the bar entrance. The canals are alive with Mangrove Jacks, and the recent flush has also been great for mud crabbing near the creek mouths.

Beach fishos have delighted in recent catches of Dart and Whiting that have been plentiful along the shoreline.  As we move through the summer months, the warmer waters bring these fish closer to the shore, making them ideal targets for those fishing from the beach. Anglers using  live baits such as beach worms or yabbies, or small poppers are finding great success. Additionally, early mornings and late afternoons are prime times to catch these species, as they tend to feed more actively during these cooler parts of the day. Remember to keep an eye on the tides, as changing water levels can significantly affect where these fish are feeding.

Freshwater fishos have reported some good catches of Saratoga and Bass at Borumba Dam, proving that persistence pays off even in challenging conditions. Despite swollen and muddied rivers, those who can locate the fish are finding success with soft plastic paddle tails, drawing in Bass, Tilapia, Yellowbelly, and Sooty Grunter.
 

As we wrap up this week's Sunshine Coast Fishing Report, At Bait Master Fishing and Tackle, we're all about providing quality, affordability, and friendly service. We offer the cheapest live beach worms on the Sunshine Coast, along with plenty of other bait options to get you on the water. Whether you're gearing up for any fishing adventure or seeking expert advice, we're here to help. Come and see why our loyal customers choose us for their fishing needs. Until our next report, tight lines and happy fishing!

Trent & Corinne
Bait Master Fishing and Tackle

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