Geraldton Fishing: Best Fishing Spots

Geraldton, located on Australia’s stunning west coast, offers some of the best fishing experiences in the country. From the thrill of catching whiting and bream to the excitement of battling a tailor or mulloway, the waters here are abundant with diverse species. Whether you prefer shore-based fishing, boat adventures, or exploring local hotspots, Geraldton has it all. In this guide, we’ll dive into the best fishing spots, top species to target, essential gear, and more. Read on to discover everything you need to know for an unforgettable fishing trip in Geraldton.

Fishing Spots in Geraldton

Geraldton is home to numerous fishing spots, each offering unique opportunities to land a wide variety of fish. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, exploring these locations will give you access to the best fishing experiences the area has to offer. Here are some of the top fishing spots to check out:

Cape Burney

Cape Burney is a popular fishing location, known for its beautiful scenery and great catch potential. Located just south of Geraldton, the area features rocky shorelines and sandy beaches. You can expect to find species like whiting, bream, and tailor here. The best time to fish at Cape Burney is early morning or late evening when the fish are more active.

Geraldton Harbour

Geraldton Harbour offers easy access to both shore-based and boat fishing. It’s an ideal spot for beginners and experienced anglers alike, with a wide variety of species like herring, garfish, and whiting. The protected waters make it a great location for fishing throughout the day. Whether you’re casting from the jetty or dropping a line from a boat, the harbour promises plenty of action.

Point Mori

Point Mori is another fantastic fishing spot known for its rocky outcrops and deep waters. It’s an excellent place to target species like tailor, whiting, and skippy. The deep drop-offs around Point More are perfect for those looking to fish from the shore. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to fish here, as the fish tend to be more active during these periods.

Chapman River

The Chapman River is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts. With its mix of freshwater and saltwater, this spot is great for targeting species like bream and herring. The river is accessible for both shore and boat fishing, and it offers a peaceful fishing experience with fewer crowds. The best time to fish in Chapman River is during the cooler months when the fish are more likely to bite.

North Drummond Cove

For anglers who prefer a more relaxed fishing experience, North Drummond Cove is the place to be. The sandy beaches and shallow waters are ideal for catching species like whiting, garfish, and bream. This spot is perfect for those who want to spend a leisurely day fishing with family or friends. Low tide is the best time to fish here, as the fish tend to come closer to the shore.

Tailor Fishing in Geraldton

Tailor fishing in Geraldton is a popular pursuit for both locals and visitors. These fast, hard-hitting fish are known for their strong fight and can be found in abundance around local beaches and reefs.

Best Locations for Tailor

• Geraldton Harbour: A prime spot for shore-based tailor fishing, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Point More: Known for its deeper waters and larger tailor, perfect for those looking for a challenge.
• Chapman River Mouth: A top location where tailor gather in schools.

Best Times to Fish

• Early mornings and late afternoons, when tailor are most active.
• Peak season: September to December, though you can catch them year-round.

Mulloway Fishing in Geraldton

Mulloway, also known as jewfish, is a prized catch for anglers in Geraldton. These fish are known for their size and strength, making them a thrilling challenge to land.

Mulloway Fishing Hotspots

• Geraldton Harbour: Ideal for night fishing with excellent mulloway catches.
• Point Moore: A popular spot, especially around the rocky areas.
• Chapman River Mouth: Known for larger mulloway during the cooler months.

Best Times

• Mulloway are most active at dawn and dusk.
• Night fishing, particularly on a full moon, increases your chances.
• The winter months (May to August) are prime time for bigger fish.

Boat Fishing Adventures in Geraldton

Boat fishing in Geraldton offers a unique and thrilling way to explore its rich marine environment. With its clear waters and abundant fish species, it’s no wonder that both amateur and experienced anglers flock here for boat fishing adventures. Whether you own a boat or prefer to book a charter, Geraldton has options for all kinds of fishing enthusiasts.

Popular Boat Fishing Locations

• Geraldton Offshore Reefs
  Offshore reefs are among the top spots for boat fishing. These areas are teeming with species like coral trout, red emperor, and dhufish. The deeper waters allow you to target larger, more challenging catches, making it a prime location for anglers looking to test their skills.
• Abrolhos Islands
  Located just off the coast, the Abrolhos Islands offer an incredible boat fishing experience. Known for its rich marine life, you can find species such as snapper, trevally, and Spanish mackerel. The islands also provide scenic views, making it an unforgettable fishing destination.
• Chapman River Mouth
  If you prefer staying closer to shore, the Chapman River mouth offers great boat fishing opportunities. This area is home to species like tailor and mulloway. The shallow waters make it easier for beginners to enjoy a successful fishing trip while still reeling in impressive catches.

Fishing Charters and Experiences

For those who don’t have access to their own boat, Geraldton offers a wide range of fishing charters. These professional services provide experienced guides, equipment, and access to some of the best fishing spots in the area. Whether you want a half-day trip or an all-day adventure, there’s a charter to fit your needs.

Some popular charter services include:

• Geraldton Fishing Charters
  Offering trips to offshore reefs and the Abrolhos Islands, this company specializes in targeting species like snapper, coral trout, and mackerel.
• Catch Charters Geraldton
  Providing tailored fishing experiences, Catch Charters is known for its friendly guides and excellent catches, including dhufish and bluebone.

Geraldton Fishing Gear and Bait

To make the most of your fishing adventure in Geraldton, having the right gear and bait is essential. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, being prepared can make a huge difference in your success. Here’s a breakdown of the essential tackle and the best bait options for fishing in Geraldton.

Where to Buy Fishing Gear and Bait in Geraldton

Geraldton has several local shops where you can find quality fishing gear and fresh bait. A popular choice for anglers is the Geraldton Sports Centre, which stocks a wide variety of rods, reels, tackle, and bait. They also provide expert advice to help you choose the right equipment for your fishing needs. Other local shops like Tackle World Geraldton and Geraldton Fishing and Outdoors also offer excellent options for gear and bait.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Fishing in Geraldton offers an unforgettable experience, whether you’re casting from the shore, heading out on a boat, or chasing prized species like tailor and mulloway. With top fishing spots, quality local resources, and expert advice available, you’re set for a successful trip. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, the key to a great fishing adventure is preparation. Use this guide to explore Geraldton’s best fishing locations, gear up with the right equipment, and make the most of your time on the water.