Launching directly in front of the Cape Hillsborough Resort is quite easy given the stable nature of the beach. Boats up to and around the four metre mark can be attempted without too much trouble. Access to the outer points of Wedge Island and around into Sand Bay can turn up a number of surprises.
Fingermark are a welcome catch around rocky headlands.
Winter months will often see an army of little boats trolling the region in the hope of catching ribbon fish. These snotty covered speedsters that respond well to slice and spoon lures are number one big Spaniard bait and also hold their own as cut bait on the reef. They also make very effective strip baits in the estuary and big bream just love them. School and spotted mackerel share the waters in this location around the same time of year so your catch may include a few of these as well.
To the North the renowned Jew Hole always attracts a few hopefuls trying to catch the areas namesake. It’s worth noting grunter are a popular catch around these parts so dropping a hook size or two and being vigilant with any action around your bait may pay dividends.
Grunter can be smash and grab attackers yet can also exhibit the tiniest of nibbles before moving slowly away with your bait. Premature behaviour on the fishing gear can spook wary schools of this sought after fish.
Another bonus of the craggy underwater caverns that hug the headlands is the presence of fingermark and mangrove jack. These favoured table fish do little in regard to giving up exhibiting hard pulling power and stubborn determination. They are a welcome catch for many fishos.
The compacted beach makes launching &
retrieving
a relatively simple task.
For those without a boat beach fishing can still provide some opportunities although your best chances are under the cover of darkness. Anywhere from a half to full tide a few hours after sunset will provide the best conditions. Tangles with whiting, flathead, shovel nose rays and sharks are common.
Tip > If fishing at night purchase a good quality led head torch. They are perfect for rig tying and baiting up and very hard to loose if you leave them on your head!
Get There > Head towards Seaforth and take the turn off to Cape Hillsborough.
Follow this road through to the Resort.
The Gear
Type of Fishing > Bait, Lure Casting and Trolling.
Bait Types > Cut mullet or squid around headlands.
Pillie on gangs for pelaigics – allow to drift through water column.
Peak Periods > Early morning and late afternoon
Best Tides > Bigger tides for pelaigics and beach fishing.
Concentrate from low to run in.
Tackle > Threadline or sidecast for beach fishing outfit 5 - 8 kg 2.5 – 3 metre rod.
Baitcaster Outfit 8-10 kg for lures around rocks and reef. Use 40 – 60lb leader attached with deckies knot to allow wind on.
