Snapper (Pagrus auratus) are one of the most sought-after fish on the Gold Coast and a favourite among offshore anglers. They can be caught throughout the year, but the larger fish are most commonly found in cooler months, when they move into shallower reefs to feed and spawn.
Snapper are typically caught while bottom fishing on offshore reefs, using fresh bait or soft plastics.
Highly regarded as one of the best eating fish in Australian waters, Snapper have firm white flesh and a delicate flavour.
They are excellent cooked whole, baked or barbecued, and are a prized catch on any Gold Coast fishing charter.
Flathead are a popular year-round species on the Gold Coast and are well known for their excellent eating quality. Blue-spot Flathead (Platycephalus caeruleopunctatus) are commonly caught over sandy patches and reef edges while bottom fishing offshore.
They are reliable biters and can often still be caught even when conditions are less than perfect, including during northerly winds.
When the bite is on it’s not uncommon to hook multiple Flathead in quick succession, making them a fun and productive species to target.
Flathead are widely regarded as one of the best eating fish on the Gold Coast, with firm white flesh that is perfect for fillets, light crumbed portions, or cooked whole in foil.
Tailor (Pomatomus saltatrix) are aggressive predators commonly found along the Gold Coast. These fast-moving fish are well known for their sharp strikes and powerful fights on light tackle.
When a school of Tailor moves through the area the action can be fast, with fish often hitting baits within seconds of reaching the water. Quick reactions are important, as anglers usually only get a brief opportunity to set the hook.
Tailor are excellent eating when prepared fresh and are particularly popular grilled or smoked. Because they are best enjoyed fresh, they are typically cooked soon after being caught.
Catching a school of Tailor can provide exciting action and is always a welcome addition to the catch on our fishing charters.
Cobia are one of the most powerful and exciting fish found in the offshore waters of the Gold Coast. Known for their strength and stubborn fighting ability, these fish will test both anglers and tackle once hooked.
Cobia are often found around reefs, wrecks and floating structure, where they hunt baitfish and crustaceans. They are commonly caught using live bait, large soft plastics, jigs or whole pilchards.
These fish can grow to impressive sizes and are well known for their long, determined fights and strong runs.
Cobia are also considered an excellent table fish, with firm white flesh that is perfect for grilling, barbecuing or sashimi.
Several species of Mackerel are found off the Gold Coast, with Spotted, School and Spanish Mackerel being the most commonly targeted. These fast, aggressive predators travel in schools and are known for their powerful runs and exciting strikes.
Mackerel are warm-water fish and usually appear in our waters from November through to June, when they move along the coast chasing baitfish.
They are commonly caught by trolling lures or rigged baits, but will also take live bait when conditions are right.
Not only are Mackerel great sportfish, they are also excellent eating. Whether cooked whole, filleted, steaked or smoked, fresh Mackerel is a favourite among many Gold Coast anglers.
Yellowtail Kingfish are one of the most powerful and hard-fighting species found in the deeper waters off the Gold Coast. If you hook one of these muscular fish, be ready — they fight hard and head straight for the reef.
Kingfish are commonly targeted over offshore reefs and bait schools, where they aggressively attack live bait, jigs and lures.
Highly prized for both sport and eating quality, Kingfish are especially popular for sashimi, with firm flesh and a delicate pink colour. They are equally excellent grilled, filleted or cooked whole — just be careful not to overcook them.
Hooking a big Kingfish offshore is always a highlight and one of the most exciting fights you can experience on our charters.
Trag Jewfish (Teraglin) are a prized species found on the offshore reefs of the Gold Coast. A smaller cousin of the larger Mulloway, they are highly regarded for their excellent eating quality and delicate flavour.
Unlike some reef species, Trag Jewfish often bite lightly. Anglers usually feel a subtle tap on the line before setting the hook, and steady pressure while winding is the best way to bring these fish to the boat.
They are commonly caught while bottom fishing on the offshore reefs, particularly when targeting quality table fish.
Trag Jewfish are superb either filleted or cooked whole, making them one of the most popular eating fish caught on our charters.
Mahi Mahi, also known as Dolphinfish or Dorado, are one of the most exciting pelagic species found off the Gold Coast. Recognised for their brilliant flashes of blue, yellow and green, these fish are fast, aggressive and incredible fighters.
They are most commonly caught by trolling lures, but will also take live bait, floating pilchards and squid. When hooked, Mahi Mahi are famous for their spectacular jumps and tail-walking displays on the surface.
These fast-growing fish are most commonly found in our waters through the warmer months, particularly around floating structure, current lines and bait schools offshore.
Mahi Mahi are not only great sportfish but are also excellent eating, making them a favourite catch for many anglers.
Several species of Marlin visit the waters off the Gold Coast, with Black Marlin being the most commonly encountered. These powerful fish can be found offshore year-round in deeper water, moving closer to the coast when warmer currents push baitfish onto the reefs.
Black Marlin caught in our waters can range from around 20 kg to well over 500 kg, making them one of the most exciting game fish in the ocean.
They are most often targeted by trolling lures, but will also take live bait or whole pilchards fished on a floater.
Hooking a Marlin is an unforgettable experience. We carry the specialised tackle and heavy gear required to target these incredible fish and give anglers the best chance of landing one.
