​If you to catch fish, add extra fun to your trip with these amazing places to go fishing  in Outback Queensland. Snag a quiet spot and let the fish find you!

There’s new life in outback Queensland’s rivers courtesy of the La Nina downpours. The free-flowing rivers are full, and eco-systems are flourishing with fish aplenty. It’s time to re-stock the tackle box, hit the road, and explore your outback fishing.  Where do you start? Here are the top five fishing spots that Outback Queensland Tourism Association is allowed to share.  There are more to discover, but you’ll have to chat with a local when you are there because nobody wants to let all their secrets out. Here’s where you’ll find the catch of a lifetime.

Outback fishing catch and release barramundii

​The Top Five Outback Fishing Spots in Queensland

Lake Callide – Biloela

Located 12km from Biloela, the Callide Dam expands across 1,240 hectares at total capacity – it’s a freshwater fisherman’s playground! You can share the banks with local cattle who graze the pasture or take the tinnie to check out a thousand different spots where Barramundi, Cod and Golden Perch may be hiding. Suppose you’re looking for a stay nearby? In that case, the lakeside at Lake Callide Retreat, which offers comfortable cabins with a view of expansive Callide Dam – is ideal for families and fishing enthusiasts!

The Dawson River – Cracow, Moura And Theodore

Dinosaurs aren’t the only ancient creatures in the Outback. The king of the Dawson River is the Southern Saratoga, one of Australia’s oldest marine species. Play your tackle choices wisely and imitate the favourite food groups of the residents in frogs, boney bream, prawns and crayfish. Affectionately known as The Sandstone Wonders regions, the nooks and crannies formed by the rocky escarpments are the ideal accommodation for Barra, Cod, Black Bream, Eel, Banded Grunter and ‘Toga’ (which grow up to 3kg). Snag a prime spot along the river and set up camp at Nevill Hewitt Weir, Baralaba. Or nestle in closer in Theodore and head to the community-owned and local fav Theodore Hotel to quench your thirst and have a hearty pub meal!

Barramundi Outback fishing

 

The Thomson River – Longreach

Meandering through the Barcoo Shire and feeding into Cooper’s Creek, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of fish in and around the Longreach region. Explore the inland river which flows through to the legendary Lake Eyre and discover its secret fishing pockets. Many central-west locals target the Yellowbelly, which strikes year-round and challenges keen anglers as the native species grows to more than 20kg. Ready your heavy gear and rig up for the fight. If you’re on your way to Longreach in August, time your visit for the Longreach Recreational Fishing Club’s Yellowbelly Classic, held on the last weekend of August.

Just remember, there’s no ‘p’ in the Thomson. (Local joke!)

Fishing is a great add-on to this five-day Brisbane to Winton drive.

Outback fishing in Warrego River

Outback fishing and kayaking on the Warrego River IMAGE Tourism & Events Queensland

The Warrego River – Charleville

Situated in the northernmost tributary of the Darling River, The Warrego River is one of the few places that are home to the Silver Perch. So kick off your fishing adventure and scope the landscape with the Warrego River Walk to pick your best spot. With accommodating grassy banks and shady gum trees, who says you need the coast for ‘reely’ good fishing action? There’s Cod, Spangled Perch, Yellowbelly, Jew and Black Bream that frequent across six local hotspots – visit the Charleville Visitor Information Centre for your ultimate fishing fortune guide.

Lake Moondarra – Mount Isa

Nestled just 17km north of Mount Isa, the picturesque Lake Moondarra is home to 22 different freshwater species, including, Barramundi, Sleepy Cod, Sooty Grunter and Long Tom. This fishing spot is active, with fish biting all year round. Still, it comes alive in October when mad fishers flock to the region for the annual three-day Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic, where you can win bragging rights and prize money! There’s only one time of year you can camp alongside the picturesque lake, and that’s during this competition weekend. So fire up the barbies and enjoy your fresh catch surrounded by hungry, like-minded fisherman battling it out for the catch of the day.

 

More ways to explore the Outback

Lake Moondarra