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The Fitzroy River delta offers a variety of fish species and great scenery of the Capricorn coastline. All year, the delta makes a great fishing hotspot; in winter you’ll find blue salmon and grunter, whereas in the warmer months you’re most likely to catch barramundi, fingermark and king threadfin. Deep sea fishing off the coast offers opportunities to chase trevally, mangrove jack and cod.
The river is known for mud crabs and the longer you leave your pots in, the more likely you are to catch some juicy crabs. The delta is perfect for casting or bait fishing, however it is governed by tidal changes. Strong currents occur during high tide so the best time to fish the delta is on half or outgoing tide, in good weather conditions.
The Net Free Fishing Zone in Rockhampton has opened the doors to recreational fishermen. However, please note that barramundi season closes from midday November 1 to midday February 1. And the Fitzroy River is a natural habitat where seasons play a key role in your fishing success rate. You're not guaranteed to catch a fish following this trail alone. Great fishermen know that you should also do your own research beforehand.
Full Itinerary
Rockhampton to Port Alma Boat Ramp
Mode of Travel:
4x4, Car, Four Wheel DriveRoute Type:
One wayDrive south of Rockhampton with your boat in tow across coastal rural land along the Bruce Highway. Once you reach the Port Alma Road turn off, follow this road along and salt flats until you reach the boat ramp. All up this is a 62 kilometre trip that will get you closer to the Fitzroy River Delta where the fishing action starts.
Port Alma Boat Ramp to Thompson Point
Mode of Travel:
BoatRoute Type:
One wayLaunch your boat at the Port Alma boat ramp and enter a diverse fish habitat at the Fitzroy River delta. This is a multi-lane ramp without designated parking spaces.
There’s a little wharf near the ramp with a waiting pontoon. Once you conduct the necessary safety and equipment checks, start your boat up and make your way along the coast and up into the delta until you reach Thompson Point.
You can release crab pots at this spot, or travel further up river for other crab spots. On your way, cast a lure along the river’s edge and you may find yourself hooked up with a nice barra or king threadfin.
Thompson Point to the Delta
Mode of Travel:
BoatOnce you’ve dropped your crab pots up river, turn around and head back out to the Delta to get into some hard core anchored fishing. The bottom varies from rocks to sand and mud bars so be sure to carry the right anchor. Fishing in this spot is best with fresh bait; prawns and squid could attract grunter and fingermark. As with most finish destinations, it is best to fish this spot on half tide as strong currents flow in this area at high tide. If you prefer some deep sea fishing, head further out of the delta and fish for trevally, cod and mangrove jack. Explore the area to find your best fishing spot on the day.
The Delta to Thompson Point
Mode of Travel:
BoatAs you head back up river to collect your crab pots, cast along the river’s edge for barramundi, king threadfin and salmon. If you like, anchor at various locations along the river to try bait fishing. The delta is a prime fishing location with a diverse range of fish species.
Thompson Point to Alma Port Boat Ramp
Mode of Travel:
4x4, Boat, Four Wheel DriveRoute Type:
One wayEnjoy the trip back to the Alma Port boat ramp with your catch of the day. On your final leg of the Rockhampton Fishing Trail, you will catch a glimpse of the Fitzroy River wildlife including; heron, eagles and other birdlife as well as resting crocodiles on the mud banks.
Dominate the Delta - The Rockhampton Delta Fishing Trail
Rockhampton,
Rockhampton Area
Queensland
4700
Content Provided By Capricorn Enterprise