Fresh Water Lure & Fly Fishing

Many keen lure & fly fishing enthusiasts come to the Cairns region with the expectation of landing Australia's premier light tackle sport fish, the highly prized barramundi, or a trevally (GT or golden), a jack, a queenfish or even a salmon - and most will target these species in our magnificent World Heritage listed tropical tidal rivers and estuaries.

Nothing wrong with that, but what should not be overlooked however, is the spectacular light tackle (3-6kg spinning or #6/7 fly) fishing available in the upper reaches or these fresh water rivers & streams.

As these waters flow from the Great Dividing Range, high up from the tidal influence, they pass through virgin rainforest, over rock & gravel beds, past swaying ribbon grass and overhanging swamp grasses, fallen timber and cotton wood trees. This very special environment is home to that plucky little fighter, the sooty grunter or black bream as it is affectionately known up here. Other species readily encountered in this fast flowing water include Jungle perch, fresh water grunter, tarpon and or course juvenile barramundi.

But don't be surprised to encounter various trevally species, prime mangrove jacks and even monster barra at certain times of the year.

During the "wet" (warm summer months), the rivers flow strong and high and big barra will move right up stream. They become trapped in some surprising skinny water once these flood waters recede and a well presented fly or lure can be engulfed by fish to a metre in length - now that's sport fishing of the highest quality on light gear. But many more juvenile barra call these waters home as they grow fit and healthy on a diet of bait fish and prawns in the warm river waters. Its not uncommon to land a dozen or more fish in the 40-50cm size range in an outing.

These fish can be a bonus however, as our prime targets are the afore mentioned sooties and JP's. Casting small poppers and flies to any backwater, swirling eddy, mid stream snag, fresh water inflow, gutter or drain and the rocky rapids - catches of over thirty fish a day are not uncommon.

During the cooler months a switch to small minnow lures, getting the offering down to the fish, works best and her too all of the above are common captures.

Not all local guides are proficient at this "skinny water" fishing and we pride ourselves on having access to some of the best. Their custom built sport fishing punts, complete with full casting platform, electric motor thruster and quality tackle (provided on a replace if broken/damaged basis) ensures nothing but the best for your very special outing.

Your tour commences with a courtesy pick up from your local accommodation where you are transferred to your fishing destination in a late model air conditioned vehicle, the guide usually has their sport fishing punt in tow.

Light refreshments, soft drinks, and lunch are provided, and the starting and finishing times of these full day tours are adjusted to match prevailing conditions and to provide peak fishing. Sole charter only.

Angler comfort and safety is of paramount concern to all guides, essential items include a broad brimmed hat, long sleeved cotton shirt / clothing and sun block for protection from the tropical rays. Quality polaroid sun glasses however are probably the most important single item that any angler should have in their tackle box - not only will it enable you to see into the water (you might even enjoy that strike more) but offer protection from flying hooks and lures.

Full day charters from $700 per day

(one to two anglers recommended)

Terms And Conditions

Overnight and extended options are also available to North Queensland hot spots like Hinchinbrook Island, Lake Tinaroo, Tully, Weipa and Seisia.

Terms And Conditions

• General Terms & Conditions apply
• Sole charter only
• Starting and finishing times of these full day tours are adjusted to provide peak fishing conditions
• Tour subject to availability, minimum numbers and seasonal conditions
• Includes quality tackle, light refreshments, soft drinks and lunch
• Includes air-conditioned 4WD transfers and pick ups
• All rates quoted are in Australian Dollars and include 10% GST
  

Please contact us if you would like to book this charter, or need some help in arranging an 'Up North' fishing holiday.