subject: Marlin Fishing Off The Sunshine Coast [print this page] The Sunshine Coast is known for its golden beaches and picturesque hinterland, but what many people dont know is that its also South East Queenslands marlin fishing capital. With warm water temperatures all year round, the seas off the coast offer the perfect environment for all kinds of gamefish, of which the marlin is the undisputed king.
Since the first enterprising boaties and fishermen decided to start running fishing charter out of Mooloolaba, the Sunshine Coast has become a mecca for anglers of all skills and ages. Nowadays, everyone from kids and families to professional sportsfishermen regularly take to the deep to try their hand at hooking the fish of their life.
If youve ever fancied the challenge of going head to head with one of these magnificent marlin, the good news is that its now easier than ever (and more affordable!) to get out there. Heres a quick guide to deep sea fishing for marlin, courtesy of the friendly folks at Mooloolabas Top Catch Charters.
When do the marlin bite?
Thanks to the Sunshine Coasts favourable conditions, you can find marlin all year round. They do thin out a little during the colder months, but theyre still catchable. Your best bet would be the summer months, from about September to April.
How big do they get?
There are three types of marlin that frequent the area: the black, blue and striped marlin. The largest is the blue marlin, which can grow up to twice the size of the black, but not so much around Australia. Out in the open ocean, its not uncommon to find marlin that weigh hundreds of kilograms. Closer to shore, juvenile black marlin are the most common, weighing it at about 30 or 40kg.
Where do we find them?
Most keen anglers will have their own secret spots, but there are a number of reliable, well-known reefs and ledges dotted less than a kilometre off the coast where the smaller black marlin are not uncommon. For the mammoth specimens, youll have to venture at least 20km out for your best chances.
Can we eat them?
The joy of fishing for marlin is in the fight itself, not in eating them, although they arent bad table fish. For the most part, marlin are a catch-and-release species, so if youre hungry, stick to the tuna!
How do we catch them?
There are many theories about what bait to use for marlin, and it of course varies depending on the size of fish youre chasing. However, most anglers opt for trolling with lures or baits (both live and dead) or fishing from an anchored or drifting vessel. The most important part is not the bait, but that the tackle is in good condition, because a 350kg fish will make quick work of any old or worn gear!
Contact the crew at Top Catch Charters at bookings@topcatchcharters.com.au for more information on marlin fishing on the Sunshine Coast. Itll be an experience you never forget!
