Just a few quick minutes from either the Pioneer River mouth or the Mackay Harbour these two islands offer vast opportunities for the small boat fisho. Given favourable weather it’s not too hard to tackle the short trip and even small boats around the four metre mark will have no trouble exploring the area.
The islands are just a few short minutes from the ramp.
Some of the better results around the islands will result if you establish a burley trail to entice a few fish to your area.
On good days it’s not uncommon to see up to 20 boats in the area all doing their thing. Look for deeper water if you intend anchoring up and disperse burley at the rate of a little bit often. Take note not to let the currents drag your burley too far away from the boat.
Through the cooler months this area is popular with those chasing snapper although exact locations are well guarded secrets. These fish respond well to burley along with cobia (black kingfish) that are also prevalent around the cooler parts of the year. Warmer months include the popular mackerel species and plenty of boats can be seen trolling the points and reef edges in search of these sporting speedsters.
Reef fish including sweet lip, coral trout and cod are also captured regularly along with the popular bluey. These fish love a fresh prawn and it’s best presented on a sturdy handline. They are brutish battlers and will return quickly to their rocky lair once they’ve scoffed the bait. Once retrieved you can often witness scars on their body that are caused by their stubborn determination to escape.
TIP > On good days you won’t be alone in this area but there are plenty of options. Take a range of tackle and keep an eye on what is happening around you.
Get There > Access is via the Mackay Harbour Boat ramp and will take about 10 mins or River St boat ramp which will see you fishing a few minutes earlier.
The Gear
Type of Fishing > Shallow reef, pelagicBait Types – Pilchard and squid (pieces or whole) prawn, mullet (fillet or whole)
Peak Periods > Bigger tides for mackerel. Light Northerly winds
Best Tides > Most stages of the tide are effective.
Tackle > Handline or sturdy overhead outfit for the bottom. Use long leaders if using braid. Medium threadline for casting unweighted pilchard on gangs.