As part of the Stocked Impoundment Scheme, Teemburra Dam requires a permit for anyone over 18 years of age wanting to fish the dam. These can be purchased for a single day, a week or a year and the funds go directly back into stocking dam. Stocked species include barramundi and sooty grunter, both which give many fishos a reason to visit the dam and try their luck on extracting one of these feisty targets.
Solid sooty grunter are scattered around Teemburra Dam.
The rules of engagement with barra in impoundments are pretty simple and lures need to pass as close as possible to fish holding structure to entice a strike. This may mean that lures will periodically bump the bottom or tangles of snaggy timber and even become snagged themselves from time to time. If this is not happening then your chances of hooking a fish in the dam are decreased.
With a rise in water levels over the past few seasons there is now plenty of territory to chase down either of these two scrappers. Luckily, they both respond to similar techniques although with certain refinements in regard to location, technique and tackle you can narrow down your target.
Teemburra dam gives young fishos a great introduction
to barra fishing.
The theory of big lures catching big fish stands firm but smaller lures also account for large specimans. Lures around the 90 – 120mm mark are ideal if they run to a depth of between 3 and 5 metres. Stealth on the water and a good sounder are distinct advantages when impoundment fishing.
If you discover schools of bait it pays to work the area thoroughly before moving on. The fish are generally not far away and consistent effort will return rewards.
Tip > If your barra jumps when hooked this is one of the crucial times you may loose your fish. Keep the line tight and angle the rod sideways if possible instead of straight up. The side on pressure can deter the fish from jumping.
Get There > Take Mackay / Eungella Road and turn off at Pinnnacle. The trip will take about 45mins from Mackay
Get There
Best Approach > Boat but bank fishing is worthwhile around the ramp area.
Type of Fishing > Lure Casting and Trolling – work lures as slow as possible.
Bait Types > Worms, peeled prawn to catch sooty grunter – more fun on lures.
Peak Periods > Warmer months. Little to no wind. Morning, late afternoon to
early evening.
Tackle > Baitcasters or threadlines with 10kilo line a minimum. Spare lures.
Use at least 40lb trace - Remember Stocked Impoundment Permit.
