Gold Coast Weekend Fishing Forecast

The past weekend on the Tweed and Gold Coast was marked by wet and windy conditions, followed by more moderate southeasterly winds and showers throughout the week. Although the swell has subsided somewhat, we anticipate some swell and showers as we approach the upcoming weekend. Inshore waters will be the most viable option unless offshore wind and swell conditions improve. It’s always advisable to have the latest weather forecast before setting out.

Whiting in Abundance

The Broadwater has seen a surge in Whiting numbers over the past few weeks, with anglers reeling in impressive catches. This increase is largely due to the heavy rainfall during the summer months, which has driven additional schools of Whiting from local rivers into the Broadwater in search of higher quality water.

Anglers have reported good catches in the channels from the Sundale bridge north to Paradise Point, with yabbies proving to be the most effective bait, followed by beach worms. As water quality gradually improves, we expect the rivers to yield better Whiting catches and fewer undesirable species like catfish and pony fish.

When targeting Whiting, a light 7 to 9-foot rod with a sensitive tip is recommended, paired with a small reel loaded with 6 to 9lb mono. A long 6lb fluorocarbon leader, a size 3 to 5 ball sinker (depending on the current), and a size 4 to 6 bait holder hook are ideal for your chosen bait. Live Bloodworms, Beachworms, and Yabbies are the best baits.

Flathead Fishing Post-Rain

With an abundance of bait in the main waterways following the rain, Flathead fishing is a promising option. The water quality near the ocean entrances has been the best and is a good starting point. A variety of lures including soft plastics, soft vibes, metal vibes, surface lures for shallow areas, and diving lures can be used to cover ground.

If you’re fishing on an incoming tide, the bait will likely move onto the tops of sandbanks and the shallow edges close to drop-offs. These are prime areas to focus your efforts when targeting Flathead. Observing bait behaviour can also provide valuable clues; if you notice bait acting skittish or being attacked by predators, you’re likely in a good area.

If you’re interested in trolling, it’s best to troll with the current whenever possible. Flathead are primarily ambush feeders and tend to position themselves headfirst into the current for a clean strike at baitfish. Trolling against the current can result in missed strikes as the Flathead will have to turn around to attack, potentially leading to a large number of missed fish.

Yakka Schools in Gold Coast Seaway

The Gold Coast Seaway has been teeming with yakka schools feeding on the surface. Anglers who can secure these excellent live baits have a high chance of catching a diverse range of species.

There have been consistent catches of Mangrove Jack and School Jew from the hole on the North Wall and around the pipeline. Anglers have also landed some nice Tailor, Trevally, Squire, Flathead, Bream, and Tarwhine.

Successful Crabbing: Sand Crabs and Mud Crabs

Anglers have reported good hauls of both Sand Crabs and Mud Crabs over the past week. If you’re targeting Sand Crabs, try your luck along the edges of most main channels and weed edges of sandbanks around the Broadwater and Jumpinpin. These areas are ideal for targeting Sand Crabs as they move through with the tide.

The rivers have started to produce some nice catches of Mud Crabs since the flush out. Try your luck in the Tweed River, Currumbin Creek, Coomera River, Pimpama River, Neverfails, Tipplers Passage, Jacobs Well, Tiger Mullet Channel, Cabbage Tree Point, Logan River, Russell Island, and Karragarra Island. Fresh Mullet, Fish Frames, and Raw Chicken make great baits.