There are plenty of fishing spots in Brisbane for expert and beginner anglers. It doesn’t matter what type of fish you’re after – whether it’s an elusive barramundi or a tasty mullet, there’s a spot in Brisbane that’s perfect for you.
It is a veritable paradise for anglers thanks to the warm climate and diverse range of waterways. You can even fish in the rivers and creeks or head out to one of the many dams and lakes dotted around the region.
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry. This article will cover the best Brisbane fishing spots, the type of fishing you can do, and what fish species you can reel.
Brisbane River
Fishing Type: Boat fishing, land-based fishing
Type of Fish: Threadfin salmon catfish, jewfish, Bull shark, flathead, bream, snapper
Recommended Bait: Soft plastics, minnow lures, and vibration baits
You can’t go wrong with the Brisbane River. This iconic waterway runs through the city’s heart and is home to a massive variety of fish. The best part? You can fish all year round!
The best Brisbane river fishing spots are Cameron Rocks Reserve, Gateway Bridge, and Hornibrook Bridge. Rain washes the baits and lures down from the banks, making them readily available to fish in these areas.
All you need is to get yourself a Brisbane River fishing spots map, and you will be ready to go!
Hornibrook Bridge, Moreton Bay
Fishing Type: Land-based fishing
Type of Fish: Bream, flathead, whiting.
Recommended Bait: Yabbies, prawns, and worms
The Hornibrook bridge spans the mouth of the Brisbane River, providing anglers with access to some of the richest fishing grounds in South East Queensland.
For those chasing bream, try your luck around the bridge’s pylons.
If you want a flathead, you can cast a line on the sand flats on either side of the mouth of the river. And for those after a feed of whiting, fish the gutters along the beaches.
Expert Insight: Be mindful of the tides when fishing around the Hornibrook Bridge – the currents can be strong and unpredictable.
You can access the bridge via the Hornibrook Esplanade on the Clontarf side of the bay. There is a public jetty on the bridge’s southern side. Alternatively, you can fish from the rocks along the shoreline.
Mud Island, Moreton Bay
Fishing Type: Boat fishing
Type of Fish: Snapper, squire, mackerel, kingfish, cod, tush fish, bream
Recommended Bait: pilchards, mullet, herring, and squid
Visit Mud Island if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. This serene spot is located in the southern part of Moreton Bay and is accessible only by ferry or boat.
Mud Island is a great fishing destination because of its diverse range of fish species.
Expert Tip: Visit Mud Island during dawn or dusk!
Gateway Bridge
Fishing Type: Land-based
Type of Fish: Mangrove jack, threadfin salmon, and mulloway
Recommended Bait: Strip bait
For a view gliding above the Brisbane River, try your luck casting a line from the Gateway Bridge. The surrounding area is full of pelagic fish like threadfin salmon and mangrove jack.
When fishing from the Gateway Bridge, keep in mind that:
- Obey the signs as they’re there for your safety and other anglers.
- Be aware of the tides since the currents can be pretty strong at certain times of the day.
- Be respectful of other people’s space – there’s plenty of room for everyone to enjoy a good day out fishing.
Newstead Park Jetty, Newstead
Fishing Type: Jetty and land-based fishing
Type of Fish: Cod, catfish, mullet, bream, snapper, and jewfish
Recommended Bait: Live bait like prawns and mullet, also blood worms
Newstead Park should be your go-to if you’re looking for a serene and scenic spot to fish in Brisbane.
The park is located along the Brisbane River, giving you plenty of options for where to cast your line. Plus, there’s a picturesque city skyline view to take in while you wait for a bite.
Although the tides can sometimes make fishing a little challenging, the perks of this spot outweigh the negatives. The slack tides are the best time to fish here, so check the tide chart before you go.
Using live and artificial baits are great to use at Newstead Park.
Peel Island, Moreton Bay
Fishing Type: Boat-based fishing and reef fishing
Type of Fish: Grassy sweetlip, bream, tailor, pink snapper, parrot fish, Moses perch, and spotty mackerel
Recommended Bait: Live bait, mullet strips, and pilchards
Peel Island is located in the southern part of Moreton Bay and can only be accessed by boat. It is worth the travel because there are several good fishing spots.
If you want the best spot to cast, go to the island’s north end, where you’ll find wrecks of the SS Dorrigo and the SS Dicky. These wrecks attract a variety of fish, making them perfect for those looking to snag a big one.
Although Peel Island is an excellent spot for fishing, strong currents are expected around the island. So, be extra cautious when fishing in this Brisbane fishing spot.
Colmslie Recreation Reserve
Fishing Type: Pontoon and Jetty fishing
Type of Fish: Catfish and bream
Recommended Bait: Prawns, squid
Just a drive from the city, Colmslie Recreation Reserve is one of Brisbane’s most popular fishing spots that you can easily access. It also has plenty of fish and is a great place to take the family for a day out.
At Colmslie Recreation Reserve, you can fish from the river or the lagoon. The river is suitable for bait fishing, while the lagoon is great for those after a fight with a big fish.
The most common fish caught at Colmslie Recreation Reserve are bream, catfish, and whiting. However, there have also been reports of jewfish, flathead, and even the occasional barramundi.
Shorncliffe Pier
Fishing Type: Bottom fishing
Type of Fish: Bream, flathead, whiting, and jewfish
Recommended Bait: Worms and prawns
With epic views of Moreton Bay and the city skyline, the sunset, and the sunrise, Shorncliffe Pier is a beautiful place to fish.
You can easily access the water and fish on the rocks on this pier. You can catch bream, flathead, whiting, and the occasional jewfish from the pier. And there is plenty of space so you can confidently cast your line.
The Shorncliffe Pier is also an excellent place to take a morning or afternoon walk, thanks to its long wooden pier.
Wynnum Jetty
Fishing Type: Jetty fishing
Type of Fish: Flathead, whiting, and bream
Recommended Bait: Prawns, and squid jigs
Wynnum is a beautiful bayside suburb just 11 kilometers from Brisbane’s central business district.
As the name suggests, Wynnum is home to a long jetty that is perfect for fishing. The jetty is next to a lovely park, making it ideal for a family day.
You can catch plenty of fish off the Wynnum Jetty, including bream, flathead, and whiting. To increase your chances of reeling in fish, go to this fishing location in the morning or late in the afternoon.
West End Riverside Lands Park
Fishing Type: Land-based
Type of Fish: Bream, flathead, and catfish
Recommended Bait: Prawns
Lure in a big one at the West End Riverside Lands Park!
This fishing spot is perfect for those who want to catch a glimpse of Brisbane’s skyline while reeling in their dinner. You’ll find plenty of bream, flathead, and catfish swimming in the river.
Another great thing about West End is the laid-back local atmosphere, so you can unwind after fishing and enjoy the great outdoors.
Manly Boat Harbour Rock Wall
Fishing Type: Land-based fishing
Type of Fish: Bream, flathead, trevally, and cod
Recommended Bait: Strip bait, prawns, worms, and squid
The Manly Boat Harbour Rock Wall is an excellent choice for anglers who want to take in the stunning views of Moreton Bay while fishing.
You’ll likely catch bream, flathead, whiting, and jewfish in this fishing location. And, many boats are anchored just offshore, so you won’t have to go far to find some bait! Also, some fish may hide in the crevices of the rocks or boats, so keep your eyes peeled.
Wellington Point Jetty
Fishing Type: Jetty fishing
Type of Fish: Flathead, bream, and snapper
Recommended Bait: Lures, live or weighted dead bait
This iconic wooden jetty is a local favorite for those who love to fish. It is located in the Wellington Point Reserve, just a short drive from Brisbane’s central business district.
Expert Tip: The jetty is a great spot for casting a line, especially at high tide when the fish are closer to the water surface.
The side railings have shallower water, making it easier to catch fish. But towards the end of the jetty, the water is deeper, giving you the chance to catch bigger fish.
Breakfast Creek, Albion
Fishing Type: Land-based fishing
Type of Fish: Flathead, bream, threadfin salmon, jackfish, mangrove jack, jewfish
Recommended Bait: Prawns and herrings
Breakfast Creek is near Albion, just a few minutes from the city. The creek is teeming with fish, including jackfish and flathead. It also offers plenty of spots for wading and casting, so you can explore until you find the perfect spot.
The most suitable time to fish is early evening when the water is at high tide. You can also try early morning, during the low tide.
Redcliffe Jetty, Moreton Bay
Fishing Type: Jetty fishing, land-based
Type of Fish: Whiting, bream, flathead, and snapper
Recommended Bait: Blood or beach worms
Moreton Bay is home to some of the ideal fishing spots in Brisbane, and the Redcliffe Jetty is one of them.
Located at the southern end, Redcliffe Jetty is known for its bream, whiting, snapper, and flathead. Make sure to bring a fishing hat and sunscreen because there are not a lot of covers available in this area.
Victoria Point Jetty
Fishing Type: Jetty fishing
Type of Fish: Snapper, whiting, snook, squid tommies, and gar
Recommended Bait: Worms, squids, and prawns
The Victoria Point Jetty is one of the best fishing spots in Brisbane for those who love a challenge.
The long pier provides plenty of space to fish, and the deep waters teem with all sorts of fish. However, this is one of the busiest fishing spots in Brisbane, so be prepared for some competition.
Enjoy Fishing in Brisbane
With so many different fishing spots in Brisbane, it can be hard to know where to start. However, these spots are some of the best places to go fishing in Brisbane. They offer a variety of fish, scenic views, and amenities that make for a great day out on the water.
If you’re looking for “port of Brisbane fishing spots,” you should know that you cannot fish at any wharf found at the port. It is also not allowed to fish if you are within 30 meters from either a wharf or vessel.Â
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