CALM WATER ESTUARY FISHING – CHARTER OPTIONS

Calm Water Estuary Fishing

For those wanting some action close to town or a short drive away, estuary fishing is great way to get out and explore the environment. The fishing action is great, chasing all types of species, and perhaps taking home your dinner. Depending upon the prevailing weather and tide conditions, up to a dozen species can be pulled from the one spot. Half and full day tours are available that begin with the gathering of live bait before moving up into the estuaries, and their kilometres of channels, gutters, creeks and open places. Actual fishing locations will be chosen based on prevailing weather and tidal conditions.

Only 5 minutes from the heart of the beautiful city of Cairns and you will be treated to some of the best natural scenery and fishing conditions available in Tropical North Queensland. Imagine fishing the upper reaches of the Trinity Inlet (Cairns Harbour) surrounded by lush greenery, rainforest clad mountains, and one of the worlds most diverse and productive ecosystems. With over 90 kilometres of winding waterways to explore in our custom built vessels, our guides will take you to the best locations. Daily tours operate throughout this extensive mangrove lined estuary which is home to a great diversity of species including the famous barramundi, mangrove jack and trevally, salmon, grunter, flathead, fingermark and gold spot cod to name just a few. In all, over 40 species of fish can be regularly caught in this magnificent waterway. You will find a virtual smorgasbord of species to target using light sportfishing tackle on 3 to 6 kilo outfits including Grunter, King and Blue Salmon, Trevally, Queenfish, Flathead, Estuary Cod, Mangrove Jack, Fingermark, and of course Barramundi. Tea, coffee, biscuits, soft drinks and cold water are all provided, however lunch is not included. The morning trip runs from 7.30am to 12 noon, with an afternoon trip leaving at 1.00pm and returning at 5.30pm. The two trips can also be combined into a full day of fishing if you wish. Our half and full day charters are designed to cater for all ages and skill levels, and children are most welcome. The guide will also show you how to catch live bait in a cast net at the start of the charter, and explain the important interaction between tide and moon that is so important for successful estuary fishing. No experience is required, all bait and tackle is supplied, and our experienced guides will show the novice angler the right technique to catch the best fish.

CALM WATER ESTUARY CHARTERS - PRICING

Half Day Share Charter from $120 per person
Full Day Share Charter from $240 per person
Full Day Private Charter Available POA

ALL TACKLE SPORT FISHING departs Cairns

Calm Water Estuary – From Cairns

All Tackle Sport Fishing is skippered by your guide Justin Gibbins, he has been a professional fishing guide for over 20 years in the Cairns area and also has a lifetime of fishing experience in our local waters. Very few people have spent as much time in Trinity Inlet and other local rivers. Enquire Now

FULL DAY ESTUARY – $240 P/P.

HALF DAY ESTUARY – $120 P/P

FULL DAY RIVER – $250 P/P (See below for details.)

PRIVATE CHARTERS ALSO AVAILABLE – P.O.A.

Our local harbour (Trinity Inlet) offers some of the best Sportfishing opportunities imaginable at certain times of the year. To begin your trip you will gather live bait which is done with a castnet. Live bait consists of prawns,herring,mullet and sardines. This is generally a fairly quick exercise. After bait has been gathered it’s time for the fun to begin. Just sit back and relax and let’s find a suitable location to start with careful consideration to the tidal and prevailing wind conditions on the day.

Justin encourages catch and release, however, if you want to take your catch it will be cleaned and iced ready for consumption. Different species of fish have different size limits, however your guide is up to date with this matter. With over 90 km of waterway at our door don’t forget to bring a camera and hat as you never know when you will see a saltwater crocodile sunning itself or even some of the amazing birdlife.

Full day Estuary: The same as the half day trip, but we return to the Marlin Marina at 12 pm for a short break. Clients can go and dine at one of the numerous cafes along the waterfront for approximately 1 hour and then it’s back on the boat to continue the afternoon session.

FULL DAY RIVER – $250 P/P

All river fishing trips are limited to a maximum of 4 unless prior arrangements have been made

You begin your day at approximately 630 am with a pickup from city accomodation (via arrangement) then drive south of the city making your way towards The Mulgrave/Russell (Johnstone/Mourilyan harbour) rivers.

Spectacular scenery is just the beginning as you venture along the highway to your destination. Upon arrival it’s time to stretch your legs and the boat is launched. Bait gathering is the next job. Live sardines/herring/mullet and occasionally prawns.

Depending on the time of year will determine what our target species will be. Our tropical fish species are seasonal and the catch can vary. Cold drinks/ tea and coffee are available on all trips and lunch is provided on full day river fishing trips. See More…

FISH TALES CHARTERS

Calm Water Estuary – From Cairns

The open waters, creeks and deep channels of the Cairns Estuary System are a paradise for anglers and fishermen alike. Cairns-Trinity Inlet is a State Marine Park, this natural habitat has numerous deep holes, mudflats, snags, and drop-offs making it a great location to catch a variety of fish species. Enquire Now

Full Day $240 pp Half day $120 pp Morning 7:30-12:00. Afternoon 1:00-5:30 The Cairns Estuary area has over 100kms of waterways just at our backdoor, so let us show you our backyard. Common species of fish caught when Fishing in Cairns Inlet are Fingermark, Mangrove Jack, Estuary Cod, Grunter (Javelin Fish), Salmon, Queen Fish (Queenies), GT’s (Trevally), Thread Fin Salmon, Bream, Mud Crabs and ‘Every Cairns fishermans dream’ … The Barramundi! Check out the photo gallery to see our happy customers with their catch, this could be you!

The gear we supply is PENN 460 slammers reel on a 8-10 kg ugly stick with 10 kg mono fishing line. If you prefer you can bring along your own fishing gear.

Fish Hunter FNQ

Calm Water Estuary – From Cairns

Fish Hunter FNQ, Come aboard a custom built sports fishing vessel and enjoy our scenic freshwater rainforest rivers and mangrove lined estuaries. Fish the Daintree, Johnstone and other rivers chasing our premier tropical sport fish, the Barramundi, along with many others! Enquire Now

FULL DAY FISHING $800 6:30am pickup Max 2pax

Daintree River, Johnstone River, Russell/Mulgrave Rivers or Tinaroo Dam. The river location will depend on the time of year, weather and fishing conditions – however we can discuss your preferences and make recommendations upon booking.

HALF DAY FISHING $480 6:30-11:30am or 12:30-5:30pm Max 2pax

Lure & Fly Fishing in the Cairns Inlet targeting tropical fish species including: Barramundi, Mangrove Jack, Trevally, Tarpon, Fingermark, Queenfish and a range of other salt water species.

Daintree River, Johnstone River, Russell/Mulgrave Rivers or Tinaroo Dam.

The river location will depend on the time of year, weather and fishing conditions – however we can discuss your preferences and make recommendations upon booking. Estimate a 1-2 hour drive.

Included in your day:

Transfers to/from your accommodation (Cairns area & Port Douglas) Morning tea, lunch, softdrinks, tea & coffee Quality fishing tackle ^

What to bring:

Wide brimmed hat Sunscreen Sunglasses Camera Lightweight, long sleeved clothing Footwear (water friendly) Insect repellent ^ All fishing gear supplied on a replace if lost or damaged basis.

* Charter transfer times may vary depending on availability and specific requirements.

Please note: complimentary food provided may contain gluten and dairy products.

Feel free to bring along a couple of canned beers, but no more than a 6 pack please. SEE MORE

Paradise Sportfishing Adventures

Calm Water Estuary – From Cairns

A charter with Paradise Sportfishing Adventures starts by catching live bait with a cast net along the edge of a tributary of Trinity Inlet Estuary. Live herrings and mullet are the best bait for catching predator species, mullet are great for Barramundi fishing Cairns Inlet. Enquire Now

Only $95 for a 1/2 day experience makes us the best value. Call for pricing on Full Day and Private Charters If the tide is low enough you may see a crocodile basking in the sun along the banks of the Estuary. Unlike deep sea and reef fishing at the Great Barrier Reef off Cairns, a day fishing Cairns Trinity Inlet is so close to the city. This means you will be baiting up very soon after boarding the vessel and will enjoy longer fishing times.

Great Day Fishing & Crabbing

Calm Water Estuary – From Cairns

A trip aboard Great Day offers visitors the thrill of fishing in Cairns, hauling in the famous live mud crabs and hard fighting tropical fish lurking in the calm waters of Cairns Trinity inlet. Enquire Now

Price $95.00 per adult. Child $75.00 and includes all levies, fees & taxes Our twin hull aluminium vessel offers full canopy and toilet facilities especially designed for calm water cruises. Sit back and take in the magnificent views of Cairns mountain ranges, lush mangroves and tropical birds while enjoying the freshly prepared seafood.

Akoonah Angling

Calm Water Estuary – From Cairns

The mighty Barramundi is the sought after species in our northern estuaries and impoundments. Your guide will offer step-by-step tuition on precision casting with out Shimano Baitcasters so that you will be able to place that lure on that trophy Barra’s nose. Enquire Now

Estuary Half Day $500 for the whole boat (max 5pax) Estuary Full Day $650 for the whole boat (max 5pax) As well as lure casting you may get to sample a little live baiting fly casting, depending on conditions (BYO fly gear). Other species caught in the estuaries are Mangrove Jack, Fingermark, Trevally and Queenfish, just to name a few. All charters are all inclusive, everything from lunch (full day), cold drinks and snacks to transfers to and from your accommodation and even sunscreen and a hat if required.

SUBLIME SPORTFISHING ADVENTURES

Calm Water Estuary – From Port Douglas

Whether it’s casting a lure or fly up the rainforest rivers for Barramundi, popper fishing for GT on the Great Barrier Reef, or just wanting a fun morning on the water in Port Douglas with the family, Sublime Sportfishing prides itself on going the extra mile to take you to some of the best locations Port Douglas, Daintree and Far North Queensland have to offer.

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Sublime Sportfishing offers private charters for individuals, groups or families, personalised to suit all fishing levels and interests, from the beginner to the experienced angler. Locally owned and operated, your fishing guide will cater for all your Sportfishing requirements with over 20 years local river and reef fishing experience.We offer 1/2 day, 3/4 day or Full Day Private Charter options and will personalise the day to suit your requirements, ensuring your day is as successful and enjoyable as possible.

ESTUARY and DAINTREE RIVER PRIVATE CHARTERS (Max 4 anglers)Half Day – $450 – 7.00am – 12.00pm or 12.30pm – 5.30pm3/4 Day – $650 – 7.00am – 3.00pmFull Day – $800 – 7.00am – 5.00pm

The Port Douglas region has numerous small creeks and rivers to explore, as well as coastal beaches, flats and inshore reefs. You can target Barramundi, Mangrove Jack, multiple Trevally species, Queenfish, Fingermark, Coral Trout and many many more.Some of the lesser fished creeks outside of Port Douglas Inlet offer some of our region’s best fishing and pristine environments.Perfect for families looking for a fun and easy 1/2 day on the water or it can be tailored to the keen fisho who wants to lure or fly fish for some of our iconic, hard fighting coastal fish species

OFFSHORE REEF AND WRECK FISHING – PRIVATE CHARTER (Max 4 anglers)

Half Day – $500 – 7.00am – 12.00pm or 12.30pm – 5.30pm3/4 Day – $700 – 7.00am – 3.00pmFull Day – $800 – 7.00am – 5.00pm

ALL CHARTERS INCLUDE:Quality tackle, lures / baitWater, soft drinks and light snacks.Insect repellent.Basic wet weather gear.BYO tackle optional.Hours are a guide only and can be varied to suit anglers, tides and best fishing times.

We strongly advise you BYO hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, long sleeve shirt, light lunch (on 3/4 and full days), camera and sense of adventure.Please note quality lures, rods and reels are supplied by Sublime Sportfishing on a ‘replacement cost if lost or broken’ basis, while hooks, bait and leader are available at no cost.

EXCEED SPORTFISHING

Sports Fishing – from Pt Douglas

The reefs out of Tropical Port Douglas have some insane fishing to offer. From trolling for the tasty Spanish Mackeral to throwing surface lures for brutes like GT’s and Red Bass, the reef has it all. If bottom fishing is more your style, then you have come to the right place. Coral Trout, Red Emperor and Large Mouth Nannygai all inhabit the reefs around Port and are a very tasty treat.

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SPORT FISHING – Private $1500

REEF FISHING (max5 anglers)

Full Day – Private $1500 Share $265 (min 4)

Half Day – Private $560 Share $130 (min 4)

RIVER & ESTUARY – Half Day – Private $560 Share $130 (min 4)

From May through until September we also have our annual run of juvenile Black Marlin which are great fun on the light tackle. Providing the weather is kind to us we can offer full day packages chasing the little power houses which have really put on a spectacular show.

The vessel, Escape 2, is a custom built Haines Hunter with all the bells and whistles. Powered with over 400hp, it is guaranteed to get you to the fishing grounds fast and in style.She has been set up with serious fishing and cruising in mind, from the latest Simrad Electronics, 3D scanning and Bluetooth stereo. Also recently added was a set of Reelax outriggers and new Loanstar Anchor Winch.The boat has ample Esky space to keep drinks, lunch and a feed of fish cold for days, and cover from the sun for those nice exciting full day Reef adventures.All tackle has been supplied from the well known company Penn with models including Slammers, Squalls and the Legendary Penn internationals.

PORT DOUGLAS SPORTFISHING

Calm Water Estuary – From Port Douglas

Our custom built 5.5m fishing charter vessel has a 140hp, 4 stroke engine and is completely built for purpose. It has been designed to give you a comfortable day on the water and that is just what you’ll get! With safety, stability and comfort all at your fingertips, you’ll love every single second you spend out on the water.

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We also provide professional quality fishing equipment for all types of sport fishing to ensure you will enjoy a truly incredible day’s fishing! Our friendly and experienced crew are keen to give you the best fishing you’ve ever experienced, our crew is a highly personable group of blokes who will make sure your day runs without a hitch! With our crew’s extensive experience, your safety and enjoyment is guaranteed.

River & Coastal Fishing

Shared Half Day Charter, $110pp, 2-5 anglers.Private Half Day Charter, $450 for 4 anglers, $550 for 5 anglers.Private Full Day Charter, $750 for 4 anglers max.

Offshore Sport Fishing

Private Full Day Charter, $850 max 4 anglers.

Snorkeling Low Isles

Half Day Private Charter, $550 max 5 pax.

HOOK UP CHARTERS

Calm Water Estuary – From Port Douglas

Hook a Barra, catch a mud crab or just enjoy a day on the water in beautiful Far North Queensland. Let Shawry take you to his favourite inshore reef, mangrove estuary and rainforest fishing spots. Using lures, live or local dead bait, surface fishing with poppers or fly fishing.. let us know what you’re up for its your day!

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Full Day – 8 hours 1-3 people $730 4 people $780

Half Day – 4 hours 1-3 people $380 4 people $430

3/4 Day – 6 hours. 1-4 people $580

Maximum of 4 people, perfect for families.

Half Day Share Charter Maximum 4 people $120 per person.

Using an array of techniques, you will be targeting Barramundi, Mangrove Jack, Queen Fish, Javelin Fish, Coral Trout, Spanish Mackerel, Nannygai and many more… Whether you are a novice or experienced we have something for you!

Tours depart from the boat ramp on Ashford Avenue, next to the Combined Club, Port Douglas. All fishing gear, live and local bait, lures, bottled water and soft drinks, insect repellent and wet weather gear provided. Please bring lunch for a full day and don’t forget your camera! BYO

Far North Sport Fishing

Calm Water Estuary – From Cairns & Daintree

Our custom built 20′ Centre Consoles are skippered by our very experienced local guides and are the perfect vessel to spend a day out on the water sport fishing. Due to their size and for guests comfort we only offer reef charters when wind conditions are 15 knots or less. Enquire Now

Day Charter $795 1 – 3 pax Using techniques from popping, jigging, trolling, fly and reef fishing we target massive GTs’, Spanish Mackerel, Coral Trout, Wahoo, Tuna, Red Emperor and a host of other species. These trips coincide with the annual Giant Black Marlin season. We can also customise a mother ship package with our 40′ game boat Black Magic and a truly world class heavy tackle team. If the wind is up then we offer day charters to the beautiful Daintree River where you can target Barramundi, Mangrove Jack, and Tarpon and also drop a pot or two for Mud Crabs. Read More…

Hook-A-Barra

Clam Water Estuary – Pond Fishing – Wonga Baeach

Hook-A-Barra fishing adventures at Wonga Beach in the Daintree is the place to try your hand at landing a Barramundi or Mangrove Jack, there’s even the chance to catch a stunning albino specimen. The pond is filled with the best salt water sourced from the Daintree River and stocked with over 1,500 Barramundi (including albinos) and Mangrove Jack. Enquire Now

This is an ideal option for all ages to get a taste of fishing in the far north, with easy access to the waters edge (no Crocs here), suitable for wheel chair access as well. Catch & Release $55 per person*, per hour. You have the option to purchase your fish at an additional $14 per kilo. *Please note children who are fishing independently with their own rod (aged 5-10) are $45 each. Smaller children (under the age of 5) who are accompanying paying fishing adults are free. Non-fishing guests are $10.00 general admission entry, which includes full use of facilities and entry to our viewing tanks. Catch and release fishing includes all equipment, tackle and bait and instruction on how to catch a Barramundi. Daintree Saltwater Barramundi Fish Farms have won multiple awards at the Sydney Fine Food Show for their fish, so you can expect your Barramundi to deliver a fine dining experience. You can also purchase fillets on site. Hook-a-Barra is the recreational side of Daintree Saltwater Barramundi Fish Farms, who have been producing Australia’s best hand-reared Barramundi for over a decade. This is sustainable fishing at its best! Don’t deplete Australia’s limited wild stock, practise your lure and land techniques at Hook-A-Barra. These are farmed Barramundi, but anglers won’t be disappointed with their fight. They are wild creatures and will behave exactly the same as those living in rivers. Our fish are not trained to jump on your hook. Your technique is very important. For beginners, guidance is provided by experienced staff. For experienced anglers (who may be skeptical about ‘fishing in a pond’), this is your chance to practise your Barramundi catch and land techniques and try new lures and equipment. NB: For your safety and ours, there are no treble hooks allowed at Hook-A-Barra, we use single, barbless hooks only. Hook-A-Barra also caters to Barramundi fly-fishers. BYO rods and tackle. See more…

Trinity Sports Fishing

Calm Water Estuary – From Pt Douglas

Morning,afternoon and evening trips are available on a daily basis all year around. Trinity Sportfishing knows the Dickson Inlet, Port Douglas very well, as we should for over 20 years it’s been our office we would like to think were experts on the fish and feeding habits of targeted species that inhabit the Estuary. Enquire Now

Half Day Shared Tour Prices: (Bait fishing) Price: $130.00 per person Maximum: 6 pax. Minimum: 3 to run. (Catch and release only) Private Charter Rates: (Bait fishing) 1 person $450.00 – 2-3 people $550.00 – 4-6 people $660.00 Lure & Fly Private Tour Prices: 1 person $450.00. – 2-3 people $550.00 Private Night Charter Rates: (Bait fishing) 1 person $450.00 – 2 people $550.00 – 3 people $660.00 Times: Morning Trip 8.00am – 12.30pm Afternoon Trip 1.30pm – 6.00pm Night Trip 6.30pm – 10.30pm (seasonal, weather permitting) (Note all pricing reflects half day or evening sessions) Christian or James will always catch live bait to use for the fishing tour. The live bait is caught using a cast net at the beginning of the tour. The use of live and local baits ensures aggressive predatory fish. Quality tackle is used as well as custom built sportfishing rods. Fish species regularly caught on Trinity Sportfishing Half Day Tours Port Douglas include: Barramundi, Fingermark, Mangrove Jack, Grunter, Queenfish, Cod, Tarpon, Salmon, Bream and Giant Trevally. The vessel used by Trinity Sportfishing Port Douglas is a 6 metre Cairns Custom Craft, specifically built to allow 6 anglers to fish in comfort. The full canopy provides protection from the sun. The boat, “Jessie” is stable and has a very shallow draft, enabling access to all areas of the Inlet. Private night charters are a great way to maximise your catch, any rod that bends means it’s yours or your friends to fight not someone your sharing the charter with. Some nights are better then others and best results are when the skipper can help you decide the best night for your availability.

Out’n’About Sportfishing

Calm Estuary Fishing – From Pt Douglas

Fish the Port Douglas estuary and pull in an elusive Barramundi, Mangrove Jack, Fingermark, Tarpon, Blue Salmon or Queenfish. Your guide will be there to offer all their expertise and knowledge of the eco system that surrounds this amazing area. In addition to the great fishing, crocodile and bird spotting is a possibility too. Enquire Now

Half Day Shared Charters – Estuary & In-shore Reef (2 – 6 people) – $120 per person. 8am – 12pm and 12:30pm – 4:30pm

Half Day Private Charters – Estuary & In-shore Reef

1-3 pax – $500, 4 pax – $550, 5 pax – $650, 6 pax – $720

Full Day Charters and Night Fishing also available upon request Live bait, top quality gear, refreshments, insect repellent and wet weather gear is supplied.

Why not experience the thrill of fishing on one of Out n About’s popular sportfishing tours. In need of some ‘REEL THERAPY’ – Enjoy fishing on the fringing coastal reefs catching the famed Coral Trout, Nannygai and pelagic fish including Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Queenfish, Trevally and Tuna.

Out n About offers the opportunity to get out on the water and enjoy the regions beautiful surrounds while wetting a line. A great value tour and suitable for the novice or to the experienced angler, a must-do while visiting Port Douglas.

Daintree River Fishing

Calm Water Estuary – From Daintree

Our calm water Fishing and Nature Tour targets barramundi, mangrove jack, fingermark, trevally and mudcrabs (when in season) whilst enjoying the wildlife and scenic beauty of the Daintree River. Enquire Now

Estuary Fishing Share Charters Half Day (4 hrs) 2-8 pax $120 pp Full Day (8 hrs) 2-8 pax $240 pp Night (4 hrs) 2-8 pax $120 pp Minimum 2 people, Maximum 8. (Night tours available.) Local guide, Dave Patterson, has over 29 years experience fishing and exploring the Daintree River, and specialises in fishing, nature and photographic tours. Join Dave on his small group personalised calm water tours targetting a wide variety of fish species while enjoying the wildlife and scenic beauty of the mighty Daintree.

Cooktown Barra Charters

Calm Water Estuary – From Cooktown

Cooktown Barra Charters give you the opportunity to the magnificent waters surrounding Cooktown. There is so much to offer in this spectacular part of the world. With a number of rivers to choose from, you’ll be onto the fish in no time. And Thomas offers so much more, including camping and hunting options. Enquire Now

Run by Thomas Nevins, you’ll be catching fish in no time!

River 2 Reef
Cooktown Adventure Camping
Scenic Tours
Hunting Trips

The weather in the tropics is always changing, Thomas will work with you to ensure that your party always has fun, regardless of tropical downpour, tradewinds, or impending cyclone. No two fishing charters are the same, we cater for clients who have come from the USA specifcially to target a particular species on saltwater fly rods, right through to kids that have never caught a fish before.