We grab the thoughts of experienced angler Matt Tuffy who hooked onto local advice for fishing in and around Innisfail while staying at BIG4 Innisfail Mango Tree Tourist Park.
You can’t beat local knowledge. It’s a cliché but it’s so true. I reaped the benefits of this during a recent stay at BIG4 Innisfail Mango Tree. And by passing these thoughts on to you, it will hopefully increase your chances of landing a catch when you’re fishing in Innisfail and surrounds.
It began with an opportunity to fish with a local bloke who took me to the most pristine waterways in the surrounding rainforest. We fished the creeks behind the small town of South Johnstone, just 20km from Innisfail. The scenery is breathtaking and the water some of the cleanest I have ever fished. Not only did we catch plenty of sooty grunter but we also snared a few rare and beautiful jungle perch. This was a first for me and something I had dreamed of for some time.
I also caught up with Innisfail Tackle & Sports owner, Sam Pagano, at the suggestion of BIG4 Innisfail Mango Tree Tourist Park staff. Sam is very passionate about Innisfail and its fishery and was happy to share his knowledge. He explained how Innisfail offers visitors the opportunity to fish from the mountain streams right out to the Great Barrier Reef, which is only a short boat ride off shore. With this kind of diversity in a fishery, anyone who plans their stay could quite easily fill in a month fishing for different species in both freshwater and saltwater.
Another tip I learned was that you can catch good barramundi and mangrove jack under the traffic bridge adjacent to the hospital. And if here during the wet season, make sure you throw a few lures at the flooded cane drains, as these hold many ‘barra’ at this time of year. However, be aware that while fishing here crocodiles are ever present.
Next time you’re heading this way, set aside a few days to explore this amazing part of Tropical North Queensland. The fishing is amazing and the scenery spectacular, and the locals are very friendly.
BIG4 Innisfail Mango Tree Tourist Park is a great base when staying in town. Its central location allows you to easily explore all the region’s treasure, and the park boasts beautiful gardens and spotless amenities. And as it backs onto the South Johnstone River you have the easiest of access when fishing! Check it out for yourself when on your next fishing adventure in Innisfail.
