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Fishing

Fishing around Magnetic Island offers an enticing blend of adventure and respect for the marine environment. With its diverse range of habitats, from sheltered bays to open waters, the island provides ample opportunities for anglers to cast their lines in pursuit of a diverse array of fish species.

 

However, it's important to note that Magnetic Island is located within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, which means there are specific Marine Park zoning regulations in place to ensure the protection and sustainability of the delicate marine ecosystem.

Some areas are designated as "no-take" zones, where fishing is prohibited to safeguard critical habitats and marine life.

 

Therefore, before setting out, it's essential to be aware of the zoning rules, adhere to size and bag limits, and practice responsible fishing practices.

 

This approach not only ensures a memorable and successful fishing experience but also contributes to the preservation of the extraordinary underwater world that makes Magnetic Island a true natural treasure.

 

Refer to the Marine Parks zoning map below for further information.  

 

The tropical waters surrounding Magnetic Island host an abundance of sought after fish species. Keen fishermen and fisherwomen target prized Coral Trout, Barramundi, Grunter, Mackerel (School, Spotted & Spanish) and many more.

There is easily accessible land-based fishing that provides fun for the whole family.


Popular fishing spots

  • Nelly Bay harbour near boat ramp.

  • Nelly Bay breakwater.

  • Picnic Bay jetty.

  • West Point beach.

  • Horseshoe Bay near boat ramp.

  • Horseshoe Bay at Endeavour Creek mouth (1km west of boat ramp).

Source: Magnetic Island Time Cruises

Man holding up large fish that he caught

Fishing gear hire

FNF Adventure & Hire Centre

Mon-Sat: 6am-6pm.

Sun: 7am-5pm.

36 Mandalay Ave, Nelly Bay.

Bait for sale

FNF Adventure & Hire Centre

Mon-Sat: 6am-6pm.

Sun: 7am-5pm.

36 Mandalay Ave, Nelly Bay.​​

 

Picnic Bay Hotel (pub) 

Sun-Thurs: 9am-12am.

Fri & Sat: 9am-2am.

1-3 The Esplanade, Picnic Bay​​

 

Horseshoe Bay Convenience Store

7am- 6.30pm daily.

2/7 Pacific Drive, Horseshoe Bay.

IGA Nelly Bay

Sun- Fri:6am-8:30pm.

Sat: 7am-8:30pm.

147 Sooning St, Nelly Bay.

Foodworks Nelly Bay

7am-7pm daily. 

55 Sooning St, Nelly Bay.

SS Yongala Wreck

Woman showing coral trout fish that she caught from a boat

Source: Aquascene Charters

Marine Parks zoning map

Map showing Marine Park fishing zones
Fishing zone key to map

Source: Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority

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