subject: Deep-sea Fish Species Of The Sunshine Coast [print this page] With warm waters and stunning weather all year round, the Sunshine Coast is a mecca for aquatic hobbyists of all types, from swimmers and surfers to anglers and divers.
Its also a mecca for some of the oceans most magnificent fish. While the Sunshine Coasts beaches and waterways offer some world-class fishing, its when you get out into the blue waters of the open ocean that things get really spectacular.
With deep-sea fishing charters such as Mooloolabas Top Catch Charters ferrying enthusiasts to and from the areas most active reefs, ledges and open waters, its never been easier to experience the thrill of hooking a big fish. Heres a quick rundown of some of the species you may encounter out on the high seas:
Marlin
Marlin are the most prized of all gamefish, known for their size, fight and relative rarity. Sometimes weighing in at several hundred kilograms, these elegant predators are more often caught in the warmer months, as they follow the schooling fish south past the Sunshine Coast.
Sailfish
As the marlins cousin, the sailfish has similar fighting qualities, topped off with an exquisite sail-shaped dorsal fin. Mature sailfish can grow to around 80kg, and are known for their aerial acrobatics when hooked. They are most prevalent in the warmer months.
Tuna
Yellowfin, northern bluefin (longtail) and bonito are just some of the species you will encounter off the South East Queensland coast. Pound for pound, tuna are considered to be the hardest-fighting fish in the ocean, and are also great eating. Locate a school of these powerful pelagics and youll wear your arms out pulling them in, one after the other!
Mahi-mahi
Also known as the dolphin fish or dorado, these metallic-green torpedos are famed for their speed, power and ability to throw a hook. Usually travelling in small groups and congregating around floating debris, mahi-mahi are some of the best eating in our oceans.
Cobia
Cobia, or black kingfish, are a schooling fish known for their powerful bursts of speed. Being nocturnal feeders, they are best pursued just before dawn. Growing up to two metres in length, they are usually solitary, but gather around marine features like reefs to feed. Their firm, slightly oily meat sells for premium prices.
Yellowtail Kingfish
Just like the other members of the jack family, yellowtail are a formidable opponent, with a tense, muscular body that puts up quite a fight. As a colder water fish, yellowtail have slightly oily flesh that is popular in sushi restaurants worldwide.
Wahoo
As some of the fastest fish in the ocean, wahoo are a challenging target. They are most common in the warmer months, and being a member of the mackerel family, are known for their delicious flesh. Their razor-sharp teeth can cut through most tackle, so it is important to use the right gear.
With so many world-class gamefish species so easily accessible just a few kilometres from land, the Sunshine Coast is an anglers dream. For more information on deep sea fishing charters, contact the team at Top Catch Charters at bookings@topcatchcharters.com.au.
