CLARKIE’S GC FISHING – Offshore and Seaway Action, Best Spots and Tips

03/08/2023
Posted by: BrettC

Gold Coast Fishing: Guide to the Best Spots and Tips for Flathead, Cobia, and Bream

Introduction: The Gold Coast is a fishing paradise, and with the warmer winter weather blessing us lately, it’s the perfect time to plan a fishing adventure. Whether you prefer land-based fishing or heading offshore, there’s something for every angler. In this report, we’ll share some top spots for Flathead, Cobia, and Bream to explore and essential tips to maximize your chances of a successful catch. So, grab your fishing gear and get ready for an exciting weekend of Gold Coast fishing!

Land-Based Flathead Fishing:

Brett Van Latham had a great day landing this impressive Flathead around Jumpinpin
Brett Van Latham had a great day landing this impressive Flathead around Jumpinpin

The Gold Coast has been buzzing with fantastic Flathead fishing recently, with some impressive catches reported. The Wilson Elite series, hosted by the Gold Coast Sports Fishing club, yielded over 500 Flathead caught and released in just one day! These tasty fish are widespread throughout the Tweed and Gold Coast waterways, making them an excellent target species. When fishing for Flathead, spending time on the water is crucial for learning their patterns. Consider trying different areas and experimenting with various techniques, like trolling and casting hard body lures, soft plastics, and metal vibes. Don’t forget to keep an eye on your sounder for signs of bait fish, as these areas can be gold mines for Flathead. Some recommended spots include Tweed River, Tallebudgera Creek, Currumbin Creek, Nerang River, and more.

Offshore Fishing for Cobia and Silver Jewfish:

Paul with his first ever Jewfish he caught and released on the Tweed River with Brad Smith Fishing Charters
Paul with his first ever Jewfish he caught and released on the Tweed River with Brad Smith Fishing Charters

Once the offshore swell settles, it’s time to head to the deeper waters for a chance at Cobia and Silver Jewfish. With Snapper and Pearl Perch currently under closure, it’s worth focusing on the shallow reefs around the 18 to 24 fathom marks off the Gold Coast. Live baits like yakka’s and slimy mackerel are top choices for targeting these species. Keep an eye on your sounder to locate the fish, and don’t hesitate to use a float to vary the depth of your baits. If you can’t find live baits, fresh Mullet Fillet, Bonito Fillet, Tailor Fillet, and Silver Trevally Fillet can do the trick. On the 18 to 24 fathom reefs, you might also encounter Trag Jew, Spangled Emperor, Tusk Fish, Moses Perch, and Maori Cod. If you venture out to the 36 to 50 fathom grounds, you might be lucky enough to hook some Yellow Tail Kingfish, Amberjack, and Samson by jigging or using live baits.

Bream Fishing:

Perfect for the Winter Months: Bream fishing is an excellent option during the winter months, and the Gold Coast offers plenty of land-based and boat-based spots to explore. If you prefer fishing from the shore, jetties, rock walls, and bridges are excellent places to try your luck. Don’t forget to use some burly to attract the fish. Some popular land-based spots are the Nerang River, Seaway Rock Wall, Broadwater Parklands Jetty, and more. If you’re taking the boat out, check out the Tweed River, Currumbin Creek, Tallebudgera Creek, and other locations. Bream are partial to Mullet Fillet, Bonito Fillet, Mullet Gut, White Pilchards, Squid, Prawns, and Yabbies.

That’s a Wrap:

With the Gold Coast blessed with warmer winter weather, it’s the perfect time to indulge in some fishing. Whether you’re targeting Flathead, Cobia, Silver Jewfish, or Bream, the region has a wealth of options for every angler. Remember to stay updated on fishing regulations and forecasts before heading out. So, plan your fishing trip, follow our tips, and get ready to reel in some fantastic catches on the beautiful Gold Coast!

Quotes from  the Boats

A monster Amberjack taken onboard Sea Probe Fishing Charters off the Gold Coast - that's one very happy customer!
A monster Amberjack taken onboard Sea Probe Fishing Charters off the Gold Coast -That’s one very happy customer!

Gavin from Sea Probe Fishing Charters reports:

“This week great catches of Dolphin Fish from around all the fads using pilchards and live bait, also on the 50 fathoms Yellow Tail King fish and Amberjacks using live bait and jigs and in closer Silver Jew on live baits.”

LINKS & INFO 

If you have any great catches or photos you would like to share, please email us and let us know how you went. mail@coomerahouseboats.com.au.

Stay up to date with all fishing regulations in Queensland https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/business-priorities/fisheries

Hire a tinnie with your Coomera Houseboat hire to maximise your fishing range on the water:  http://www.coomerahouseboats.com.au/our-fleet-type/hire-tinnies/     

Seabreeze is a great website to access a local forecast http://www.seabreeze.com.au/graphs/  

Good luck with the Fishing. Brett