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Seasonal Fishing Guide Sunshine Coast

Deep Sea Fishing Co. Sunshine Coast • April 7, 2022

Seasonal Fishing Guide Sunshine Coast

No matter where you are on the Sunshine Coast, the waters are a leading fishing spot and boast an impressive marine menagerie for you to catch. There will be interesting fish all year round, but it still helps to know what you can find and when. Some places are better than others when it comes to seeking the greatest finds, with Golden Beach and Caloundra Board Walk being particular standouts. Regardless, fishing is as much about timing as it is location – here’s a guide to some of the most prominent species on the Sunshine Coast, including when and where to find them.

1. Coral Trout

The coral trout is a very common fish along the Sunshine Coast, especially along the northern end, and usually resides in waters under 20 metres in depth. If searching for coral trout, it is best to do this during the day, as their presence after dark is quite rare – though not unheard of. Coral trout are present throughout the year but are especially noticeable in spring. Some also note that they are more active in the days leading up to new or full moons.

2. Snapper

This family is highly prevalent on the Sunshine Coast – their adults are typically in deep waters, while their young keep to the bays. Their supply often peaks from around November until January, but they are again present for the entire year. Snapper are tasty fish that people can enjoy with or without their skin on; the flesh is flaky and cooks well. In terms of a specific time, snapper hunt the most during daybreak and sunset, but they are opportunistic enough to be present throughout the day.

3. Flathead

Named for their distinctive flat head and sometimes known as ‘flatties’, flathead fish are especially present at Golden Beach or Pumicestone Passage, but they do head towards river mouths during the warmer seasons. It can help to cast your line up-current and let the bait drift within it; this helps it stand out to the flathead. You should fish from 7 - 9 am during spring for best results, as this is when they move upstream to breed.

4. Whiting

The Maroochy River is the place to go for whiting, especially during summer. This particular species is mainly in the ocean during winter before returning to the coast alongside the heat. Generally speaking, you have a wide berth from September to March to fish for whiting, with the fish often being up to 40 cm in length. This reaches a peak around December, but this is also a time for holidaymakers, which might complicate things, but you can always return after dark and still find plenty of whiting.

There are plenty of unique and wonderful species that you’ll find in high supply across the Sunshine Coast. No matter the month, you should have no trouble casting a line and reaping the benefits of a prime fishing locale. At Deep Sea Fishing Co., we provide fishing charters of different lengths throughout the Sunshine Coast. Get in touch today and book a charter to see (and catch) the impressive range of fish for yourself.