Sunshine Coast Fishing Report | Thursday 7 December 2023

As we cast our lines into the first half of December, the Sunshine Coast is anticipating some changes in weather due to Severe Tropical Cyclone Jasper in north Queensland. While we are currently outside the direct cyclone warning area, next week is expected to bring significant impacts along our coast, including large swells and strong winds. Jasper, currently a Category 3 system, is forecasted to intensify as it moves into the Coral Sea, potentially reaching Category 5 before gradually weakening. However, it will remain a tropical cyclone next week, with its track heading southwest towards the Queensland coast.

This weekend will be warm with partly cloudy conditions and light to moderate northeasterly and easterly winds. Temperatures are expected to hover around 30°C during the day, dropping to the low 20s overnight. There's a slight chance of showers, particularly on Sunday. If you are looking to get offshore, get out early before the winds pick up. As Jasper approaches early next week, we anticipate more unsettled weather, with increasing chances of showers and winds intensifying.

Remember to always check conditions before heading out. We recommend Fish Ranger or SeaBreeze to get the most up-to-date and accurate information. 

Offshore Fishing

The FADS are sizzling with Mahi Mahi action. For the best results, try cubing up pilchard or slimy mackerel on an unweighted hook. If you prefer trolling, hardbodies or slow trolling with dead or live baits are excellent choices. The Hards continue to be a hotspot for Tuskfish and Pearl Perch. Over at Noosa, anglers are reeling in impressive catches of Goldspot Cod, Cobia, Longtail Tuna, Tuskfish, Pearl Perch, Snapper, and Moses Perch. Spanish Mackerel are making an appearance along the coast, responding well to slow trolled Garfish. Additionally, Amberjacks are actively hitting jigs and live bait. With a cyclone on the horizon promising large swells, now is the prime time to head offshore.

Estuary Fishing

Maroochy River

Mangrove Jacks are heating up on these hot, muggy days, with MMD Splash Prawns and live or fresh baits like Herring, Mullet, Squid, and Garfish proving effective. Whiting are still plentiful, especially towards the mouth of the river, biting on live beach worms and European Night Crawlers. Flathead, including some larger ones up to 90cm, are also active. Meanwhile, Trevally are causing a stir, busting up bait schools from Bli Bli to Twin Waters, with Big Eye and Giant Trevally showing a preference for small Keitech Easy Shiner and 62mm Pro Lure Clone Prawn.

Noosa

Noosa has delivered a mix of species this week, including Flathead and Estuary Cod at Tewantin, while Woods Bay is a great option to try your luck with Flathead and Trevally. Over at Lake Cooroibah, there’s been reports of Sand Whiting and Grunter Bream. 

Beach

Local beaches have seen some action with Whiting and Dart, but the windy conditions are proving challenging. With the incoming cyclone expected to bring large swells and further windy conditions, it might be wise to steer clear of beach fishing this week.

Freshwater

The freshwater scene is buzzing with activity, especially with Saratoga responding to the high water temperatures and recent rains. Bass and Sooty Grunter are becoming increasingly active, with frogs and small soft plastics being the go-to lures.

As we close out this week's fishing report, we have some exciting updates from Bait Master Fishing and Tackle. Firstly, we've extended our trading hours! We are now open from 8:30 am to 5 pm Tuesday to Friday, giving you more time to stock up on all your fishing essentials (other days remain unchanged). Don't forget to check our social media for our special Christmas trading hours.

Just in time for the festive season, we've had a massive restock of fishing gear. From lines and lures to crabbing equipment, reels, and combos, we have everything you need for a successful fishing adventure or the perfect Christmas gift. Speaking of gifts, don't miss out on our gift cards – they make a fantastic present for the anglers in your life.

And remember, we're the only tackle shop north of Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast that offers live beach worms. Whether you're gearing up for a holiday fishing trip or looking for that ideal gift, we've got you covered.

Tight lines, and we look forward to seeing you in the store!

Trent & Corinne
Bait Master Fishing and Tackle

Cover Photo: 

Bait Master Fishing and Tackle CEO Kai with a nice Whiting caught around Twin Waters