Fishing in Cooktown
Cooktown is unique for its close proximity to a myriad of angling environments. You can fish the outer reef for its legendary black marlin; the inner reef for coral trout, red emperor, mackerel and tuna. On the beaches, headlands and coastal flats you'll find trevally, queenies, permit and the elusive bonefish; and in the estuaries chase barramundi, mangrove jacks, fingermark and crabs. And way up in the sweetwater jungle, perch and sooty grunter abound. This is a fishing paradise!
Experience fishing at it's best - a number of local operators offer guided river or reef charters from Cooktown, so make the most of their local experience, and gets yourself some tips and tricks if you're on your way to the Cape. Alternatively hire a 'tinny' or bring your own boat up from Cairns on the Mulligan Highway which is sealed all the way to Cooktown.
Marlin fishing
The Black Marlin season runs from September until December with regular 'Grander's' caught by boats that converge in Cooktown from all over the world.
Smaller marlin and sailfish can be caught for most of the year depending on the weather. South-easterly trade winds exist during winter months but are interspersed with superb 'dry season' weather and minimal breeze.
The famous 'Lizard Island tournament' runs in October on what has to be one of the toughest grounds known.
Reef fishing
Cooktown is the closest town to the Great Barrier Reef. Dawson and Cowlishaw reefs are just a couple of miles out and are easily reached by small tinnies. Great fishing for a huge variety of fish can be had and you can expect coral trout, red emperor, nannygai, spanish mackerel, yellowfin/longtail tuna, giant trevally and cobia to keep you entertained and well fed.
River and estuarine fishing
Cooktown is also home to the magnificent river systems of the Annan and Endeavour Rivers. Both rivers lay claim to some of the best fishing in Far North Queensland. These pristine jungle-clad rivers with their mangrove-lined estuaries are perfect for the keen beginner or the most experienced angler.
Big barramundi, monster spanish mackerel, queenies and trevally are regularly caught from The Endeavour and Annan rivers.
The Bloomfield and McIvor rivers are less than two hours from Cooktown and offer superb tropical estuarine and river environments. Barramundi, jacks, fingermark, trevally and queenfish can be caught in a variety of habitats.
Beach fishing
Local beaches such as Walker Bay, the mouth of the Annan, the old Annan bridge, the stone wall at Marton, Finch Bay, Quarantine Bay, Archer Point with its coastal reef and the old Wharf all have excellent land-based options for the whole family. But remember, saltwater crocodiles inhabit this area, so always be 'Crocwise'.
(Thanks to Gone Fishing and The Lure Shop for fishing editorial and photos)
See images of fishing in Cooktown
Read the latest FISHING REPORTS from Cooktown
Call 1800 174 895 for all Visitor Information and Bookings or
Fish with the local experts - Cooktown Fishing Operators:
Fishing and Diving Expeditions Tropical Australia
For local advice, bait, tackle, rod and reel repairs - visit The Lure Shop in Cooktown.
YouTube links to Black Marlin fishing from Cooktown and Lizard Island