The easy access into Murray Creek makes it a popular spot for small boat fishos regardless of tides. It can get a little shallow around some of the lower tides suitable for creek fishing but by slowing down and picking your run you shouldn’t take too much paint off your outboard.
Bream are attracted to rocky ground especially if
oysters are present .
Bread and butter fishing is very popular with flathead, whiting and bream among common targets. Barramundi, fingermark and mangrove jack also frequent the system during the warmer months while salmon and grunter (javelin fish) make appearances during the cooler parts of the year. Due to it’s expanse this system invites exploration of its many snags, gutters, islets and gravely bottom.
Venturing from the mouth of Murray Creek opens up more opportunities with creeks such as Mathers to the South and Mystery to the North. These areas have a limited window of opportunity due to the tides and see less pressure than locations with all tide access. While the system sees plenty of pressure from boaties during the day, planning an evening trip will ultimately see fewer boats on the water and new opportunities arise.
Through the warmer months the sandflies and mozzies can be a bit of an obstacle but if you’re prepared to put up with a bit of discomfort the rewards are there for those who persevere.
TIP > It’s high tide and you’re having trouble castnetting some fresh bait. Try trolling some small lures than run less than two metres along the fringes of the mangroves until the tide drops.
Get There > Head North along the Bruce Highway and turn at the Mount Pelion turnoff. It takes about 30 mins from Mackay.
The Gear
Type of Fishing > Mostly bait, Soft Plastics on high tide around the mangroves
Bait Types > Yabbie, prawn, cut fish flesh.
Peak Periods > Year Round. Fires well in the warmer months.
Best Tides > Avoid big tides unless crabbing or familiar with the area. Low tide exposes rocks and gravel beds.
Tackle > Medium overheads and threadlines. 6 – 10 kg. Sturdy Leader around 12 – 15 kilo.
