The Brisbane River is the longest river in southeast Queensland and flows through the states capital. Throughout much of the 1900's, the river was highly polluted and largely unfished. River dredging ended in 1993, leading to a resurgence of fish. According to the Courier Mail, pollution minimisation in southeast Queensland has also helped to drastically clean up the river water. The last time it was this clean was at the start of the 1900's!
Given that the water is cleaner and the fish are back, there's been a renaissance of Brisbane's main waterway and fishermen are taking note. Due to the wide variety of fish found in its flowing waters, the Brisbane River offers exciting fishery considering it's in the middle of a major city. Gordon, a retail associate at The Tackle Warehouse is a long-time fisherman. He shares his advice about where, what, and how to fish the Brisbane River.
The Fisherman's Catch: The Brisbane River has a large variety of fun fish to catch including:
- Threadfin Salmon
- Snapper
- Bream
- Cod
- Flathead
- Mulloway (jewfish)
- Squire
- Bull Sharks
- Catfish
There are even a few Barramundi around, but they remain a rarity.
Where to Fish According to Gordon, fishing is increasingly abundant and popular anywhere from the Gateway Bridge up to the mouth of the river. However, fish can be caught throughout the city of Brisbane and as far inland as Mount Crosby. River fishing is convenient because you can fish out of a tinny or along the shore. If you're land-based fishing, there are numerous walkways, banks, fishing platforms and rock walls all along the shoreline from which to cast your line.
Gear to Bring If you take a 6-10 kilo rod spooled with 10 kilo braided line and a spinning or baitcaster reel, you'll be able to catch most of the fish found in the Brisbane River. Many different kinds of lures can be used. Vibration baits, soft plastics and minnow lures have all proven successful when fishing the Brisbane River. Live baiting is also a good way to go, using mullet, banana prawns, herring or pike. Many fishermen will suggest catch and release when fishing on the Brisbane River. When asked about the viability of catching dinner from the Brisbane River, Gordon replied that there has never been a health report about the ill effects of eating fish from the Brisbane River, but that it's up to individual discretion and preference. It may be wise, however, to avoid eating mud crabs and bottom feeders as they do absorb heavy metals.
A jaunt to the Brisbane River If it's the school holidays and you're keen to avoid congested motorways and waterways, get some water time with your kids or your mates by heading to the banks of Brissy's own river. It is always a delight to find a quiet spot along the water to try your luck with a rod. If you're in need of supplies or have questions about fishing in the Brisbane River, the experienced anglers at The Tackle Warehouse will be happy to answer your questions and point you to some fabulous fishing gear.
